Salary depends on location and skill level. Earnings in the U.S. range from $36,000 to $46,000, and averaged $44,000 in 2010, depending on education and experience. In Canada Derrick Operators can earn from $30 to $45 an hour plus premiums and cost of living. As it is a specialized job limited to oil and gas drilling derricks around the world, wages tend to be fairly consistent across all locations.