Page 360 - Drilling Technology in Nontechnical Language

Chapter 15 – GETTING WORK IN THE DRILLING INDUSTRY 351

reports that the contractor and service companies use for invoicing.
Usually has many years of drilling experience, including time spent as
a driller. While some are employed as staff, many work as consultants
for a daily rate.
derrickman. Works high up in the derrick, racking pipe when tripping
out of the hole (see fig. 14–4). When the rig is not tripping pipe, the

derrickman generally looks after the mud pumps. One step up from a
roughneck.

driller. In charge of a drill crew, usually working a shift that is 12 hours
on, 12 hours off.

drilling engineer. Usually works for an operator, or sometimes for
a contractor or a specialist service company providing drilling
engineering services to operators. Plans wells, works on casing design,

and may work in an office or at the wellsite. May eventually advance
to drilling manager.
logging engineer. In charge of a logging crew, running electric logs. Will
have a degree plus specific training from the logging company.

offshore installation manager (OIM). On a marine rig, the OIM has
similar legal responsibilities as the captain of a ship.

mud engineer. Looks after the drilling and completion fluids on the rig.
Usually has a chemical background or education or a lot of experience
working for a mud company.
mud logger. Works in a rigsite laboratory, monitoring drilling parameters,
cuttings coming from the well, and any gas or oil coming back. Usually

has a geological qualification.
roughneck. Works on the rig floor as part of the drill crew or helps out

wherever needed for the derrickman. Would often be a promotion up
from roustabout.
roustabout. Rig laborer, bottom of the drilling ladder. Works off the drill

floor, usually for a roustabout foreman or crane operator.
subsea engineer. Looks after the subsea blowout preventer on a floating

rig. May have worked as a driller and then specialized in subsea
equipment.
toolpusher. The contractor employee in charge of the rig.

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