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Construction & Trades · Colorado

How to Become a Derrick Operators, Oil and Gas in Colorado

Derrick Operators, Oil and Gas in Colorado earn a median salary of $64,730/year, which is 10% above the national average. Colorado has a state income tax of ~4.4%. After taxes and rent, a derrick operators, oil and gas takes home approximately $2,857/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.

$65K
Median salary in Colorado
+10%
vs. national average
4.4%
State income tax
290
Employed in Colorado

What a derrick operators, oil and gas can afford in Colorado

Gross annual salary$64,730
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.4% state tax)$4,256/mo
Median 2BR rent (Colorado)-$1,399/mo
Rent as % of take-home32.9% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$64,730/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$2,857/mo

Becoming a derrick operators, oil and gas in Colorado

1

Meet education requirements

Derrick Operators, Oil and Gas positions in Colorado typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Colorado. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many derrick operators, oil and gas positions in Colorado require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.

3

Obtain Colorado licensure or certification

Colorado may require specific licensing or professional certification for derrick operators, oil and gass. Requirements vary by state, contact the Colorado Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in Colorado

Colorado employs 290 derrick operators, oil and gas. The highest concentrations are in Denver-Aurora-Centennial and Greeley.

Derrick Operators, Oil and Gas salary by metro area in Colorado

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Denver-Aurora-Centennial$70K$33.51/hr70
Greeley$55K$26.46/hr90

Derrick Operators, Oil and Gas salary range in Colorado

10th percentile (entry)
$47K
25th percentile
$55K
Median (50th)
$65K
75th percentile
$77K
90th percentile (senior)
$79K
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a derrick operators, oil and gas make in Colorado?

The median derrick operators, oil and gas salary in Colorado is $64,730 per year ($31.12/hr). This is 10% above the national median of $58,620. Salaries range from $47,450 to $79,330.

What are the requirements to become a derrick operators, oil and gas in Colorado?

Derrick Operators, Oil and Gas positions in Colorado typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Colorado may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Colorado licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a derrick operators, oil and gas afford to live in Colorado?

At the median salary of $64,730, a derrick operators, oil and gas in Colorado would take home approximately $4,256/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,399/month, that's 32.9% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for derrick operators, oil and gas in Colorado?

The highest paying metro areas for derrick operators, oil and gas in Colorado are Denver-Aurora-Centennial ($69,700), Greeley ($55,040). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros, a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Colorado have state income tax for derrick operators, oil and gas?

Yes, Colorado has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.4%. On a $64,730 salary, this means roughly $2,848/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.