Derrick Operators work around the world in many locations, and travel is often part of the job. The workplace can include offshore oil platforms where you are responsible for drilling deep under the ocean into the ocean floor. Many oil derricks are in remote Northern locations, or places in the Middle East. Work is generally outdoors and sometimes means dealing with extreme weather conditions, such as heat or cold. The noise from machinery is extremely loud and constant, and communication often is done by means of hand signals or technology. Offshore operations often require a greater level of experience than land work.

Safety is essential and the workplace safety rules must be understood and followed at all times. Work may be seasonal and involve extensive shiftwork, split shifts, or working around the clock. Workers often are required to live onsite for long periods of time in work camps, and work long shifts followed by extended leave periods.