Average Derrick Operators, Oil and Gas Salary in Oklahoma
Derrick Operators in Oklahoma, a vital role in the oil and gas sector, earn an average annual salary of $56,790. This figure is notably below the national average of $62,490, reflecting regional economic factors and the specific demand dynamics within the state's energy industry. While the nominal pay is lower, the cost of living in Oklahoma presents a unique financial landscape for these professionals.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $56,790 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 7.3% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $67,590.
- Outlook: Oklahoma's oil and gas industry supports a concentrated workforce of 710 Derrick Operators, as indicated by a robust Location Quotient of 5.88. This high concentration suggests a significant demand for these specialized skills within the state, pointing towards a stable job market for experienced professionals. The presence of 0.421 jobs per 1,000 workers further underscores the specialized nature and consistent need for Derrick Operators in Oklahoma's energy sector.
Salary Overview
The average Derrick Operators, Oil and Gas in Oklahoma earns-9.1%below the national average.
$27.3
$1,092
$4,733
Derrick Operators, Oil and Gas Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data for Derrick Operator salary trends in Oklahoma over the past four years is not provided, it is reasonable to assume a general upward trend in compensation, mirroring the fluctuations and recovery cycles typical of the oil and gas industry. Factors such as global energy prices, technological advancements, and regulatory changes likely influenced wage adjustments, with a general expectation of salary growth for skilled professionals in this field.
Derrick Operators, Oil and Gas Salary Distribution in Oklahoma
The career trajectory for Derrick Operators in Oklahoma typically involves significant salary growth with experience. Entry-level positions may start closer to the lower end of the pay scale, while seasoned professionals with extensive experience and specialized certifications can command salaries well above the average. The percentile gaps in earnings clearly signify the career progression and increased earning potential available as operators advance through junior, mid-level, and senior roles.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT. | 10% (Entry) | $48,360 | $23.3 |
| JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks. | 25% (Junior) | $42,593 | $20.5 |
| Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting. | 50% (Median) | $54,550 | $26.2 |
| Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance. | 75% (Senior) | $70,988 | $34.1 |
| SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman. | 90% (Expert) | $67,590 | $32.5 |
Detailed Derrick Operators, Oil and Gas Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$56,790
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$66,035
Adjusted for COL (86)
The average annual salary of $56,790 for Derrick Operators in Oklahoma should be viewed in the context of its Cost of Living Index of 86. Since the national average index is 100, Oklahoma offers a significantly more affordable living environment. This means that the purchasing power of an Oklahoma-based salary is effectively higher than the nominal figure suggests, potentially offsetting the lower national average salary when considering overall financial well-being.
Job Market Context
710
Total Jobs
0.421
Per 1K Jobs
5.88
Location Quotient
Oklahoma has 5.9x the national concentration of Derrick Operators, Oil and Gas jobs — a major employment hub for this role. Job seekers will find significantly more opportunities here than in most other areas.
Oklahoma's Location Quotient of 5.88 for Derrick Operators is exceptionally high, indicating a concentration of this profession nearly six times greater than the national average. This suggests a mature and specialized labor market where the skills of Derrick Operators are in high demand and readily available within the state's workforce. While this concentration points to strong local opportunities, it also implies a competitive environment for new entrants seeking to establish themselves in the field.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Derrick Operators, Oil and Gas
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Oklahoma City, OK Derrick Operators, Oil and Gas Salary | $59,050↑ 4% | 34 mi |
Comparing salaries near Oklahoma
Hiring Derrick Operators, Oil and Gass?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Derrick Operators, Oil and Gas make in Oklahoma?
The median annual salary for a Derrick Operators, Oil and Gas in Oklahoma is $56,790. This typically ranges from $48,360 for entry-level positions to $67,590 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Oklahoma is 9.1% lower than the national median of $62,490.
Is Oklahoma a lucrative place for Derrick Operators, Oil and Gas?
Yes, with a caveat regarding nominal salary.While the nominal average salary is below the national average, Oklahoma's significantly lower cost of living makes the $56,790 salary more financially advantageous than it initially appears.
Is Oklahoma a good place to live for Derrick Operators, Oil and Gas?
With a Cost of Living Index of 86 (lower than the national average of 100), your salary goes further here.
Where are the highest paying cities near Oklahoma?
Some top paying nearby cities include Oklahoma City, OK ($59,050) and others.
How does Oklahoma's cost of living compare to the national average for Derrick Operators?
Oklahoma's Cost of Living Index is 86, which is 14% lower than the national average of 100, making everyday expenses more affordable for Derrick Operators.
What does the Location Quotient of 5.88 mean for Derrick Operators in Oklahoma?
A Location Quotient of 5.88 signifies that Derrick Operators are highly concentrated in Oklahoma, indicating a strong industry presence and demand for these roles compared to the rest of the country.
How many Derrick Operators are there in Oklahoma?
There are approximately 710 Derrick Operators employed in Oklahoma, representing a significant portion of the state's specialized oil and gas workforce.
Is the job market for Derrick Operators strong in Oklahoma?
Yes, the high Location Quotient and the number of jobs per 1,000 workers suggest a robust and specialized job market for Derrick Operators in Oklahoma.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 710 employees in the Oklahoma area with a job density of 0.421 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
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Semantic Salary Analysis for Derrick Operators, Oil and Gas • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Oklahoma