Gas and oil drillers operate the equipment that is used to drill for gas and oil.
Petroleum, or oil, is a natural fuel formed from the decay of plants and animals buried beneath the ground for millions of years. Time, plus tremendous heat and pressure, change this decay into oil. Natural gas is formed by a similar process. Gas is often found just above oil in separate deposits.
Scientists use a variety of methods to search for gas and oil. After its possible presence is found, gas and oil drillers go to the site. Gas and oil drillers set up the drilling equipment at the area specified on the field map. They install a derrick, a tower-like steel structure that supports the drilling equipment. An important part of this job is to constantly inspect the derrick and keep it clean. Drillers also stabilize the drill rig with jackscrews and other means of support. They also select the various hand and power tools that are needed for drilling