Life on a drilling rig is fast-paced, demanding, and built on teamwork. From the minute the rig is working, crews rely on training, discipline, and trust to operate safely and efficiently in tough conditions. Whether you are on the rig floor, in the doghouse, or supporting operations off the deck, every role matters in keeping the operation moving.
Rig crew
Most drilling rigs are staffed with six core positions: Rig Manager (Toolpush), Driller, Derrickhand, Motorhand, Floorhand, and Leasehand.
Rig Manager — The senior supervisor on location, responsible for the crew, equipment, and overall operation. Their leadership sets the tone for safety and efficiency.
Driller — Monitors drilling progress, coordinates with the rig manager and rig-site supervision, and helps build a skilled, safety-focused crew.
Derrickhand — Supports equipment upkeep and the pumps and mud system. When needed, works high in the derrick (often on the order of 25 metres above the rig floor) to guide pipe into the mast.
Motorhand — Maintains engines and major machinery, works closely with floorhands, and helps train newer crew.
Floorhand — Handles drill pipe on the rig floor; some rigs run two floorhands. Duties include equipment care, mixing mud and chemicals, and assisting other crew members.
Leasehand — General labour and site upkeep (for example ditches, greasing). Not every crew includes a leasehand. Where there is no leasehand, floorhand is typically the entry-level role.
Schedule
Drilling rigs commonly run 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Many rigs use two or three crews on 12-hour shifts staggered so day and night rotations stay covered; crews often alternate day and night over time.
Typical rotation patterns include working many consecutive days (for example ~14) with a block of days off between hitches—exact schedules depend on the contractor.
As a newer crew member you may be involved in:
- Driving the crew truck (where applicable)
- Cleaning the rig and lease area
- Helping with rig moves (“rig up” / “rig out”)
- Following all company safety rules
- Working on the floor and handling drill pipe
- Supporting other crew tasks
You need to be able to travel to and from location reliably. Your own transportation is not always required but is often considered an asset.
Pay & accommodations
Pay is often on a bi-weekly cycle. Overtime is common for many rig roles, and many employers offer benefits packages.
Non-camp work — When the rig is near a town, crews may stay in hotels with meal and lodging allowances.
Work camps — In camp operations, room and board may be provided by the company.
Overview adapted for BOSS MWD readers from widely published industry descriptions of drilling rig life. Original career-oriented source material: Canadian Association of Energy Contractors — Life on a Drilling Rig.
← Back to glossary