Toolpusher – Job Roles and Responsibilities

1. Job Summary

A Toolpusher is a senior-level supervisor on a drilling rig, responsible for overseeing all drilling operations, managing rig personnel, ensuring safety compliance, and maintaining drilling equipment. They act as the second-in-command under the Rig Manager (OIM) and are the primary link between the drilling contractor and the operating company.

Toolpushers ensure that drilling progresses according to plan while mitigating risks and maintaining efficiency. They are responsible for crew management, logistics, safety, maintenance, and well control. Their leadership ensures the seamless execution of drilling programs while complying with industry regulations and best practices.

2. Key Responsibilities

A. Supervising Drilling Operations

• Direct and coordinate all drilling activities on the rig.
• Ensure adherence to the drilling program and well plan.
• Monitor drilling parameters and advise Drillers and Assistant Drillers on performance optimization.
• Ensure smooth rig operations, including tripping pipe, running casing, cementing, and well control.
• Coordinate with Company Man, Mud Engineer, and Directional Drillers to optimize drilling efficiency.
• Respond to operational challenges, such as differential sticking, lost circulation, or wellbore instability.

B. Well Control and Blowout Prevention

• Ensure all well control procedures are strictly followed.
• Supervise BOP pressure tests and function tests.
• Verify that the IWCF/IADC well control certification is current for Drillers and Assistant Drillers.
• Oversee well control drills and crew training.
• Act as the key decision-maker in the event of a well control emergency.
• Maintain up-to-date documentation on well control practices.

C. Crew Management and Training

• Supervise Drillers, Assistant Drillers, Derrickhands, Floorhands, and Roustabouts.
• Assign roles and responsibilities to ensure smooth operations.
• Conduct daily safety meetings and toolbox talks.
• Train new employees on drilling techniques, safety procedures, and emergency protocols.
• Handle crew disputes, disciplinary actions, and performance evaluations.
• Ensure all crew members comply with PPE requirements and safety protocols.

D. Safety and Compliance

• Enforce OSHA, API, IADC, and HSE safety regulations.
• Lead safety audits, inspections, and incident investigations.
• Ensure compliance with environmental policies (waste management, spill prevention).
• Conduct emergency response drills (fire, gas leaks, blowouts).
• Implement and reinforce Stop Work Authority (SWA) for unsafe operations.

E. Equipment Maintenance and Rig Readiness

• Oversee rig inspections and maintenance schedules.
• Ensure proper functioning of:
  ✅ Top drive and rotary system
  ✅ Drawworks and braking system
  ✅ Mud pumps, tanks, and shale shakers
  ✅ BOP and well control equipment
  ✅ Power generation and electrical systems
• Work with mechanics, electricians, and hydraulic engineers for troubleshooting.
• Maintain an inventory of spare parts and request replacements as needed.

F. Logistics and Inventory Management

• Ensure adequate stock of drilling fluids, casing, bits, and consumables.
• Coordinate material deliveries with offshore/onshore support teams.
• Manage crew change schedules and transportation logistics.
• Track and control operational costs to stay within budget.

G. Documentation and Reporting

• Maintain Daily Drilling Reports (DDR).
• Document safety incidents, equipment malfunctions, and well control events.
• Submit reports to the Rig Manager and Operator’s Representative (Company Man).
• Keep records of training logs, equipment certifications, and maintenance records.

3. Required Skills & Qualifications

A. Technical Skills

• Strong expertise in drilling equipment operation, well control, and rig hydraulics.
• Knowledge of casing, cementing, mud properties, and formation evaluation.
• Ability to troubleshoot downhole problems, stuck pipe, and pressure anomalies.
• Experience in managing subsea wellheads and deepwater drilling operations.

B. Leadership & Management Skills

• Ability to supervise and mentor rig crews effectively.
• Strong decision-making and problem-solving skills under pressure.
• Clear and professional communication with drilling supervisors, operators, and third-party contractors.

C. Education & Certifications

• High school diploma or technical degree in drilling operations.
• IWCF or IADC Well Control Certification (Supervisor Level) – Mandatory.
• BOSIET (Basic Offshore Safety Induction and Emergency Training) – Required for offshore roles.
• H2S (Hydrogen Sulfide) Awareness Certification – Required for hazardous gas environments.

4. Work Environment & Conditions

• Toolpushers work on land rigs, offshore platforms, jack-up rigs, semi-submersibles, and drillships.
• Physically demanding job with exposure to harsh weather, loud noise, and hazardous chemicals.
• 12-hour shifts, rotational schedules (e.g., 14/14, 28/28) with on-call responsibilities.
• Must be available 24/7 for emergency situations.

5. Career Progression .

A. Career Path

✅ Driller → Toolpusher → Rig Manager → Operations Manager → Drilling Superintendent

• Toolpushers with extensive experience can move into Rig Manager positions.
• Opportunities exist to transition into drilling engineering, HSE roles, or offshore installation management (OIM).

6. How to Become a Toolpusher?

1. Start as a Floorhand / Roughneck – Gain experience in drilling operations.
2. Advance to Derrickhand / Assistant Driller – Learn mud systems, tripping procedures, and safety protocols.
3. Get Promoted to Driller – Obtain IWCF/IADC well control certification and gain leadership experience.
4. Gain Experience in Supervision – Assist Toolpushers in crew management and logistics.
5. Apply for Toolpusher Roles – Demonstrate expertise in drilling operations, safety compliance, and leadership.