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Rotary Drill Operators, Oil and Gas

SOC 47-5012.00Job Zone 2 · Some Preparationv.26.05

Context coveredThis framework covers rotary drill operation for oil and gas extraction, spanning equipment control, borehole monitoring, crew coordination, maintenance, recordkeeping, and safety leadership on active and training well sites calibrated to Job Zone 2 vocational preparation.

Sources:O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.SkillsCrosswalkSkillsCrosswalk — O*NET enrichment + adjacency index. Opens in new tab.
Emerging
Entry / Apprentice
  1. Drill pipe sections — count and record under direct supervision to verify borehole depth on an active oil and gas well site.
  2. Hand tools and powered wrenches — assist in connecting sections of drill pipe under the guidance of a senior operator during routine drilling operations.
  3. Pressure gauges and basic instrument panels — identify and read to recognize normal operating ranges while shadowing experienced crew members.
  4. Throttles and levers on the rotary table — operate at reduced speed under close direction to maintain basic drilling tempo on a supervised rig.
  5. Slush pump operation — observe startup procedures and report circulation inconsistencies of drilling fluid to a lead operator during initial well runs.
  6. Draw works controls, including brake pedals and levers — practice lowering and raising drill pipe under direct supervision on a training rig or live site.
  7. Drilling activity logs — complete basic entries for footage drilled and time required using paper or digital templates provided by a supervisor.
  8. Personal protective equipment and rig safety protocols — follow established procedures consistently to support crew safety on a working drill site.
  9. Mechanical components of rotary drill equipment — identify major parts and their functions during pre-shift walkarounds with experienced crew.
  10. Verbal instructions from lead operators — listen actively and confirm understanding before executing assigned tasks on a live drilling operation.
Developing
Mid-level / Established
  1. Rotary table speed and borehole pressure — monitor and adjust throttles and levers with reduced oversight to maintain target drilling parameters on a producing well.
  2. Drill pipe sections — independently count, tally, and cross-reference records to confirm borehole depth accuracy during routine field operations.
  3. Powered tongs and wrenches — connect and disconnect drill pipe sections reliably and safely with minimal supervision on day-to-day drilling shifts.
  4. Draw works brake pedals and levers — control lowering and raising of casings and drill strings consistently across varying load conditions at an oil field site.
  5. Slush pump startup and monitoring — execute circulation checks and adjust mud consistency within standard parameters to support uninterrupted drilling.
  6. Drilling records database — enter footage, strata descriptions, materials, tools, and service data accurately using field software after each shift.
  7. Rig machinery and auxiliary equipment — perform scheduled maintenance tasks and minor adjustments to reduce downtime on an active drilling site.
  8. Crew coordination — communicate task assignments and sequencing clearly to fellow crew members during standard drilling and tripping operations.
  9. Equipment anomalies — apply basic troubleshooting steps to identify and resolve common mechanical issues before escalating to a senior operator.
  10. Drilling fluid properties — read and interpret field measurements and adapt pump settings within established guidelines to sustain borehole integrity.
Proficient
Senior / Expert IC
  1. Full rotary drill operation — control all throttles, levers, and draw works autonomously across routine and non-routine drilling scenarios on oil and gas well sites.
  2. Borehole pressure management — analyze pressure gauge trends and make real-time adjustments to prevent well control incidents during complex drilling intervals.
  3. Strata and formation records — document penetrated materials, borehole conditions, and equipment performance comprehensively in compliance with regulatory requirements.
  4. Slush pump systems — diagnose circulation problems, adjust fluid weight and viscosity, and restore normal mud flow independently during active drilling operations.
  5. Drill string assembly and tripping — supervise and perform efficient connection, disconnection, and handling of drill pipe and casing in varied well configurations.
  6. Machinery maintenance and repair — conduct detailed inspections, calibrate components, and execute corrective repairs to sustain rig performance across extended campaigns.
  7. Non-routine mechanical failures — apply systematic troubleshooting methods to isolate root causes and restore equipment function with minimal operational delay.
  8. Crew performance and safety compliance — evaluate team adherence to drilling procedures and intervene decisively when unsafe conditions are identified on site.
  9. Operational data analysis — review footage, time, and resource consumption records to identify inefficiencies and recommend procedural improvements to supervisors.
  10. Cross-functional communication — coordinate with engineers, geologists, and service company personnel to align drilling parameters with well plan objectives.
Advanced
Lead / Principal / Executive
  1. Crew training programs — design and deliver structured on-site instruction covering safe drilling practices, equipment operation, and emergency response for new and experienced operators.
  2. Rig safety culture — establish and enforce safety standards, introduce improved procedures, and model cautiousness to reduce incident rates across all crew shifts.
  3. Drilling performance strategy — set operational targets for rate of penetration, bit selection, and mud programs, and guide crews to meet those benchmarks on complex well projects.
  4. Multi-well records and compliance reporting — oversee maintenance of all drilling logs, footage reports, and regulatory documentation to organizational and government standards.
  5. Equipment maintenance planning — develop preventive maintenance schedules, manage spare-parts inventories, and lead major overhaul decisions to maximize rig uptime.
  6. Workforce development — mentor developing and proficient operators, assess individual skill gaps, and create growth pathways aligned with organizational staffing needs.
  7. Operational risk assessment — lead pre-job hazard analyses, apply critical thinking to evaluate well control risks, and authorize procedural deviations when conditions warrant.
  8. Technology integration — evaluate and champion adoption of industrial control software, ERP systems, and analytical tools to improve rig monitoring and reporting efficiency.
  9. Cross-departmental leadership — represent field operations in planning meetings with engineering, HSE, and management teams to align drilling execution with project goals.
  10. Organizational knowledge transfer — codify best practices, lessons learned, and procedural improvements into written standards used by crews across multiple rig operations.

AI-at-Work Competency Framework

Sources:Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab.Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab.WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab.
Subscriber feature

Authoritative source data identified for 998 occupations

How a worker at each mastery level uses, directs, and evaluates AI tools in this occupation. Each statement cites its evidence inline; click a citation chip to verify the source.

Emerging
  1. Basic sensor-alert acknowledgment — reads AI-generated pressure and flow anomaly notifications on a drilling monitoring dashboard, cross-checking readings against physical gauges before reporting to the driller in charge Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
Developing
  1. Drill-parameter log review — feeds shift logs and pressure-gauge records into an AI-assisted analytics tool to identify patterns in borehole depth progress, then adjusts throttle and lever settings based on the output WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  2. Safety-procedure lookup — queries an AI assistant to retrieve updated rig safety protocols and introduces the findings during crew training sessions, verifying accuracy against the operator's official manual Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
Proficient
  1. Real-time operations monitoring handoff — delegates continuous sensor-stream interpretation to an AI monitoring system, freeing attention for physical control tasks such as regulating rotary-table speed and drill-string connections, while remaining the decision authority for any corrective action Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  2. Drilling-efficiency diagnosis — directs an AI tool to correlate historical bit-weight, rotation speed, and penetration-rate data, then evaluates the recommendations against observed downhole conditions before making throttle adjustments WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  3. Crew instruction support — uses AI-generated procedural summaries and scenario walkthroughs as training aids when onboarding new hands, supplementing the content with hands-on demonstration and site-specific knowledge Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
Advanced
  1. Predictive maintenance orchestration — interprets AI-generated equipment-health forecasts for draw works, rotary tables, and casing-handling tools, then schedules proactive interventions and briefs crews on the corrective steps, retaining full accountability for rig uptime decisions Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  2. Human-AI control integration — designs the crew's workflow so that AI monitoring handles routine parameter trending while operators concentrate on high-stakes physical interventions — lowering and raising drill pipe, making connections — that remain in the Q3 upskilling window and resist full automation Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
  3. Cross-shift knowledge transfer — synthesizes AI-compiled shift-performance summaries with operator experience to produce standing instructions that make drill work measurably safer and more effective across rotating crews WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
Evidence pack
SAFI positioning
Top skill: Operation and Control
Score: 62.1 / 100
Quadrant: Q3_upskilling_window
precision: category_estimate
WEF cluster
Technology Use, Monitoring and Control
technology_use_monitoring_control
Sources:Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab.WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab.

Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework

Sources:Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Subscriber feature

Ten durable-skill domains mapped to four proficiency/role levels for each occupation. Each statement is aligned to the Pathsmith taxonomy, derived from trusted grounding data and mapped to occupation-specific O*NET tasks and skills.

1Communication11 statements
Emerging
  1. Crew radio communication — relays basic drilling status updates to rig floor personnel using standard field terminology Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Hazard reporting — verbally identifies and reports observed pressure anomalies or equipment irregularities to the driller during supervised shifts O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Shift handover communication — conveys drilling depth, mud weight, and equipment status to incoming crew through structured verbal and written handoff Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Tool and procedure explanation — describes connection sequences and pipe-handling steps to junior roughnecks using clear field language O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Drilling log entry — records footage drilled, strata descriptions, and materials used in daily tour sheets with increasing accuracy and completeness O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Crew safety briefing — delivers pre-tour safety and operational instructions to rig crew, covering well conditions, expected formations, and hazard controls Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Contractor and company-man coordination — communicates drilling parameters, deviations, and recommendations to company representatives through clear verbal and written reports O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Incident documentation — composes detailed written accounts of equipment failures, kicks, or near-miss events for regulatory and operational records Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Cross-functional operational briefing — leads well-site meetings with company men, mud engineers, and service contractors, synthesizing technical data into actionable drilling decisions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Training curriculum delivery — structures and delivers formal on-the-job instruction programs for new drill operators, translating complex rig mechanics into learnable sequences O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. After-action reporting — authors comprehensive post-well summaries that capture lessons learned, performance benchmarks, and recommendations for future well programs Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
2Leadership11 statements
Emerging
  1. Task ownership — completes assigned rig floor duties without prompting and notifies the driller when tasks are complete or conditions change Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Peer support — assists fellow crew members with routine pipe connection tasks under driller supervision Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Crew task direction — assigns specific rig floor responsibilities to roughnecks during connection and tripping sequences under the driller's oversight Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Safety leadership initiative — identifies unsafe work practices on the rig floor and intervenes verbally before escalating to the driller Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Procedure reinforcement — reminds crew members of correct make-up torque and pipe-handling steps during repetitive operations O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Tour leadership — assumes full operational accountability for the drill crew during a 12-hour tour, directing all floor activities and monitoring well conditions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Crew training coordination — plans and executes on-the-job training rotations that develop roughnecks toward derrickhand and driller competency levels O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Emergency response command — directs crew actions during well control events, equipment failures, or H2S alarms, maintaining calm authority under pressure Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Rig culture development — establishes crew norms for accountability, safety reporting, and operational discipline that persist across personnel changes Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Mentorship of developing drillers — coaches assistant drillers through supervised well control scenarios, gauge interpretation, and mud program management Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Operational improvement leadership — leads rig-level process improvement initiatives that reduce flat time, improve bit footage, or enhance crew safety performance Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
3Metacognition10 statements
Emerging
  1. Skill gap awareness — identifies personal knowledge limitations in formation evaluation or mud properties and seeks guidance from the driller or mud engineer Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Error recognition — notices and self-corrects mistakes in drill pipe count or gauge reading before they affect borehole depth calculations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Learning strategy adaptation — applies feedback from experienced drillers to adjust throttle and brake techniques during tripping operations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Decision reflection — reviews tour logs after shift to evaluate whether drilling parameter adjustments produced the intended outcomes Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Operational self-monitoring — continuously evaluates personal situational awareness against gauge readings, crew behavior, and well conditions during active drilling Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Knowledge boundary management — recognizes when drilling anomalies exceed personal experience and escalates to the company man or well-site engineer with relevant data Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Procedure internalization — reflects on standardized well-control and connection procedures to identify steps where personal execution deviates from best practice Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Cognitive bias mitigation — recognizes confirmation bias in interpreting pressure trends and deliberately seeks contradictory indicators before adjusting drilling parameters Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Mentor metacognition modeling — explicitly coaches developing drillers on how to monitor their own decision-making during critical well operations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. After-action learning integration — systematically incorporates lessons from well incidents into personal and crew operating procedures, documenting the reasoning behind each change Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
4Critical Thinking10 statements
Emerging
  1. Gauge anomaly identification — recognizes that a pressure spike on the standpipe gauge differs from normal operating range and reports the observation to the driller Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Equipment symptom association — connects unusual vibration or noise from the rotary table to potential mechanical issues and flags for inspection O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Drilling parameter analysis — evaluates relationships between weight on bit, rotary speed, and rate of penetration to determine whether current parameters are optimized for the formation Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Formation evaluation reasoning — interprets cuttings returns and mud weight changes to infer subsurface conditions and anticipate drilling hazards O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Mud property troubleshooting — analyzes slush pump output and mud consistency deviations to isolate whether the cause is mechanical, chemical, or formation-related O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Well control decision-making — evaluates pit gain, pump pressure, and flow rate data together to determine whether a kick is occurring and initiates appropriate well-control response Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Equipment failure root-cause analysis — systematically examines drill string, pump, and drawworks data to distinguish between operator error, wear failure, and formation-induced problems Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Depth and strata reconciliation — cross-references drill rod count, geolograph data, and offset well records to verify borehole depth and formation correlation accuracy O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Complex well problem diagnosis — integrates pressure trends, mud logs, mechanical data, and formation prognosis to diagnose stuck pipe, lost circulation, or wellbore instability scenarios and recommend solutions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Drilling program critique — evaluates well program assumptions against actual formation behavior and presents evidence-based recommendations for parameter or casing program changes to the company man Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
5Collaboration10 statements
Emerging
  1. Rig floor team participation — performs assigned pipe-handling and connection tasks as a reliable member of the four-person floor crew during tripping operations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Service crew coordination — communicates basic needs and timing to cement or wireline crews when they arrive on location Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Crew role integration — coordinates timing between the derrickhand, floorhand, and motorman to execute efficient drill pipe connections without communication breakdowns Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Mud engineer collaboration — shares drilling observations with the mud engineer to support timely adjustments to mud weight and rheology O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Tool pusher alignment — keeps the company-assigned tool pusher informed of operational changes and seeks input on decisions outside the driller's authority Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Multi-discipline rig site coordination — synchronizes drilling activities with cementing, logging, and directional drilling service companies to minimize nonproductive time Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Crew conflict resolution — mediates interpersonal disputes between crew members on the rig floor, restoring productive working relationships without escalating to management Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Cross-tour consistency — collaborates with the opposite-tour driller to maintain consistent drilling parameters, documentation standards, and crew expectations across 24-hour operations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Well-site team integration — leads collaborative planning sessions with the company man, mud engineer, and directional driller to optimize the well plan based on real-time formation data Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Safety culture co-creation — partners with the HSE representative and crew to co-develop rig-specific hazard protocols that reflect actual operational risks observed on location Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
6Character10 statements
Emerging
  1. Regulatory compliance adherence — follows posted safety procedures and BOP operating protocols consistently, even when not directly supervised Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Accurate record honesty — records actual footage drilled and materials used without rounding or omitting inconvenient data in tour logs Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Equipment accountability — reports mechanical damage or wear discovered during inspection, including damage that may have resulted from personal operational error Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Safety non-negotiability — refuses to resume drilling operations after a safety concern is raised until the concern is properly evaluated, regardless of time pressure Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Professional conduct under fatigue — maintains composure, accuracy, and crew respect during the final hours of a 12-hour tour in demanding physical conditions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Operational integrity — maintains accurate drilling records and well documentation even when accurate data reflects poor performance or unfavorable outcomes for the operator Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Crew ethical modeling — demonstrates consistent professional behavior that sets the standard for language, conduct, and respect on the rig floor Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Regulatory reporting honesty — accurately discloses well-control events, spills, or equipment failures to regulatory bodies through required incident reporting channels Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Ethical escalation — identifies and escalates well-site practices that violate environmental regulations or operator safety standards, accepting personal professional risk to do so Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Accountability culture leadership — establishes a rig crew environment where mistakes are reported candidly, investigated constructively, and used to drive improvement without blame Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
7Creativity9 statements
Emerging
  1. Field improvisation — devises a workable hand-tool workaround when a standard wrench is unavailable during a non-critical pipe connection task Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Observation-based suggestion — proposes a minor change to crew positioning on the rig floor to reduce trip time based on personal observation Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Drilling parameter experimentation — tests alternative weight-on-bit and rotary speed combinations in a new formation to identify the penetration rate optimum beyond the default program Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Crew workflow redesign — restructures the sequence of connection tasks to reduce floor crew fatigue and improve timing efficiency during long tripping operations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Stuck pipe remedy design — generates and tests multiple fishing tool configurations or jarring sequences when conventional approaches fail to free stuck pipe Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Maintenance solution development — devises an alternative lubrication or adjustment method for drawworks components when manufacturer-specified parts or procedures are unavailable on location Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Lost circulation treatment adaptation — modifies the lost circulation material blend and pump rate based on formation behavior when the original mud program does not control losses O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Drilling program innovation — proposes and pilots novel bit selection, mud program, or casing point decisions that improve well economics or wellbore quality beyond the standard well design Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Training method invention — develops practical simulation exercises and scenario-based drills that accelerate crew competency in well control and emergency response Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
8Growth Mindset9 statements
Emerging
  1. Correction receptiveness — accepts redirection from the driller on throttle technique or gauge interpretation without defensiveness and applies the correction immediately Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Formation learning curiosity — asks mud engineers or geolograph operators questions about unfamiliar formations or drilling fluid behavior encountered on a new well Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Certification pursuit — actively seeks well control certification or additional mechanical training during off-tour time to expand operational qualifications Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Failure-to-learning conversion — analyzes a drill string washout or bit failure as a learning opportunity, documenting what indicators were missed and how to catch them earlier Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. New technology adoption — engages with automated drilling control systems, electronic drilling recorders, or managed pressure drilling equipment as learning opportunities rather than threats to traditional practice Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Challenging well acceptance — volunteers for or accepts high-pressure, high-temperature or directional well assignments as development opportunities despite their increased complexity and risk Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Performance benchmark pursuit — tracks personal metrics such as connection time, flat time reduction, and footage per day to set and pursue increasingly demanding performance targets Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Industry knowledge expansion — pursues formal education in petroleum engineering concepts, formation evaluation, or drilling engineering to deepen technical foundation beyond journeyman competency Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Crew learning culture cultivation — creates a rig environment where crew members share daily lessons, acknowledge mistakes openly, and compete constructively on performance metrics Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
9Mindfulness10 statements
Emerging
  1. Gauge attention maintenance — sustains focused attention on pressure and flow rate gauges during monotonous drilling-ahead periods without losing concentration Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Fatigue self-recognition — notices personal signs of fatigue near end of tour and applies self-regulation strategies to maintain safe operational awareness Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Pre-task mental preparation — pauses before beginning a tripping or connection sequence to mentally review the steps, hazards, and crew assignments before initiating the operation Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Emotional regulation under pressure — maintains measured decision-making and calm communication with the crew during unexpected kick indicators or equipment alarms Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Environmental awareness cultivation — continuously scans the rig floor, derrick, and wellbore instrumentation for changes in condition that fall outside normal operating parameters Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Intentional throttle control — applies deliberate, measured inputs to drawworks controls during sensitive operations such as tagging bottom or pulling through tight spots, preventing pipe damage or wellbore injury Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Crew emotional monitoring — observes crew body language and verbal cues to identify fatigue, frustration, or distraction before they contribute to a rig floor incident Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Noise and vibration attunement — maintains calibrated awareness of normal mechanical sound signatures so that early anomalies in the rotary table, pumps, or drill string are detected promptly Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Sustained high-hazard presence — maintains full situational awareness across an entire 12-hour tour on a critical well, modulating personal attention and energy to sustain consistent performance throughout Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Mindfulness coaching — explicitly teaches crew members attention management and self-regulation techniques to reduce human error during repetitive or high-consequence rig operations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
10Fortitude9 statements
Emerging
  1. Physical demand persistence — continues rig floor duties through physically demanding conditions such as extreme heat, cold, or rain without abandoning task responsibilities Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Routine setback recovery — resumes normal drilling operations with composure after a minor equipment delay or failed connection attempt Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Extended operation endurance — maintains operational focus and decision quality across a 12-hour tour on a well with frequent complications, equipment resets, or formation problems Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Well control stress management — remains functionally effective while executing well-control procedures during a live kick, sustaining accurate gauge monitoring and crew direction under high stress Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Prolonged stuck pipe resolution — sustains methodical jarring, soaking, and backreaming attempts over multiple tours without abandoning systematic procedure in favor of reactive force Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Hostile environment drilling — operates drilling controls and maintains records accurately during operations in remote, physically harsh, or politically unstable field locations without performance degradation Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Repeated equipment failure resilience — continues productive problem-solving and crew morale support through a string of successive equipment failures on a troubled well Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Crisis leadership under sustained adversity — leads the crew through a multi-day well control event, H2S release, or blowout precursor with consistent calm authority, accurate decision-making, and crew protection prioritization Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Organizational resilience modeling — maintains professional performance standards and crew cohesion through extended periods of organizational uncertainty, contract changes, or workforce reductions on the rig Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Sources:Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
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Source anchors that ground each statement

Related titles
Pipeline Inspector · Petroleum Equipment Installer · Blast Driller · Cable Driller · Cable Tool Driller · Cable Tool Operator · Clean Out Driller · Core Drill Operator · Core Driller · Daylight Driller · Derrickhand · Directional Drill Operator
RAPIDS apprenticeships
0268 · Pipeline Inspector · 0269 · Petroleum Equipment Installer
O*NET skills
Operation and ControlOperations MonitoringCritical ThinkingMonitoringInstructingActive ListeningCoordinationSpeakingReading ComprehensionComplex Problem SolvingJudgment and Decision MakingEquipment MaintenanceTroubleshootingRepairingQuality Control AnalysisWritingLearning Strategies
Knowledge domains
MechanicalMathematicsAdministration and ManagementEducation and TrainingPersonnel and Human Resources
Abilities
Problem SensitivityControl PrecisionNear VisionManual DexterityArm-Hand SteadinessMultilimb CoordinationInformation OrderingOral ComprehensionOral ExpressionFinger Dexterity
Work styles
DependabilityCautiousnessAttention to DetailStress TolerancePerseveranceLeadership Orientation
Technology
Industrial control softwareData base user interface and query softwareSpreadsheet softwareOffice suite softwareWord processing softwareObject or component oriented development softwareCustomer relationship management CRM softwareEnterprise resource planning ERP softwareAnalytical or scientific software
Tasks · seed anchors for statements
  1. Train crews, and introduce procedures to make drill work more safe and effective.
  2. Observe pressure gauge and move throttles and levers to control the speed of rotary tables, and to regulate pressure of tools at bottoms of boreholes.
  3. Count sections of drill rod to determine depths of boreholes.
  4. Push levers and brake pedals to control gasoline, diesel, electric, or steam draw works that lower and raise drill pipes and casings in and out of wells.
  5. Connect sections of drill pipe, using hand tools and powered wrenches and tongs.
  6. Maintain records of footage drilled, location and nature of strata penetrated, materials and tools used, services rendered, and time required.
  7. Maintain and adjust machinery to ensure proper performance.
  8. Start and examine operation of slush pumps to ensure circulation and consistency of drilling fluid or mud in well.
CIP education codes
46.0504

Sources: O*NET v30.2 (CC BY 4.0), SkillsCrosswalk.com, LER.me, Anthropic Economic Index, SAFI (Jadhav & Danve, 2026), WEF Skills Taxonomy 2021, Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework. © 2026 EBSCOed.