Derrickhand

July 7, 2025

Job Description

Horizon Drilling

Title: Derrickhand

Reports to: Driller

Location of Operations: Horizon Drilling operates in Alberta, British Columbia and Saskatchewan.

Experience:

Previous hands-on experience in all positions up to and including Derrickhand
General Summary of Position: The Derrickhand position is deemed to be a “Safety Sensitive” position due to the proximity of heavy industrial machinery. A Derrickhand handles the uppermost section of the drilling string as it is brought from or lowered into the wellbore or drill hole. A Derrickhand oversees some of the machinery on the rig and is responsible for the conditioning of the drilling fluid and the circulation machinery.

The Derrickhand spends 25% of their time up the rig derrick and plays the lead role in stacking and guiding pipe as it is tripped in and out or reconnected into the hole. A Derrickhand works with the mud systems, monitors weight and mixes weight properly while reporting any changes. The position requires mixing chemicals, monitoring pump manifolds and most importantly, good communication with the Driller and the Engineer.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Assist Driller with equipment maintenance specifically related to the circulating system.
  • Assist with pipe guiding while positioned in the derrick and climb the derrick.
  • Observe and maintain proper drilling fluid characteristics, rate of fluid circulation, mud handling equipment and preventative maintenance programs.
  • Work on or above the drilling floor, and guide drilling pipe during the tripping process.
  • Ensure usage of proper safety equipment.
  • Ability to follow directions, comply with company guidelines and work in a safe manner.

Job Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

  • Ability to work safely and plan ahead.
  • Strong Leadership skill.
  • Ability to work in a team setting.
  • Strong communication and organization skills.
  • Strong Mechanical aptitude and Manual dexterity.
  • Ability to judge distance and spatial relationships.

Certifications and Licenses:

  • Must be at least 18 years of age.
  • Valid H2S Alive Certification.
  • Valid CSO Certification
  • Standard First Aid Level C CPR
  • Loader Operator certification
  • Confined Space Entry and Rescue
  • Fall Protection and Fall Rescue for rig work

Why Horizon Drilling?

  • Best Drilling industry safety records within Canada.
  • Family Health & Dental benefits.
  • Up to 5% RRSP matching contributions.
  • 60-day free coverall program.
  • Competitive wages.