Boiler Plant Operator Job Description

Apprenticeships in Boiler Operator Training

A boiler is a stationary metal vessel that uses gas, coal, wood, or electricity to heat water and create steam. The steam can be used to heat a large facility. The boiler operator is in charge of maintaining the boilers and monitoring their efficiency.

An expert checks systems and performs preventative maintenance. A person who wants to become a boiler operator needs to have a high school degree, but many companies only hire workers who have completed formal training. A new boiler operator can gain experience and learn from established professionals while working as an apprenticeship.

A new worker can take a licensing exam after completing an apprenticeship. Licensing exams test an individual's knowledge of operating procedures. The nature of a boiler operator's job is changing as technology advances.

Many new workers spend more time away from the machines, monitoring computers that give them diagnostic information. Boiler operators can become licensed to work on other types of modern systems, such as electrical power generators, centralized air units, and refrigeration systems. There is a steady demand for workers with specialized knowledge of heating and cooling systems in hospitals and other settings.

The Role of Boiler Operators in the Construction and Maintenance Of A Central Heating System

Boiler plant operators are responsible for the safe operation of their boilers. Boiler operators start and shut down boilers and then conduct inspections, conduct maintenance, and keep a close eye on safety and water levels. The boiler operator may need to add chemicals to the boiler water or maintain logs or charts to ensure efficiency, safety and proper maintenance.

Most employers prefer candidates who have graduated from high school. Most boiler operators learn the occupation through on-the-job training, beginning as helpers or mechanics and then progressing through the ranks. The apprenticeship that the International Union of Operating Engineers offers lasts four years and requires 600 hours of classroom instruction and 8,000 hours of work experience.

Vocational colleges offer courses that can help people get into the occupation. Local jurisdictions determine whether boiler operators have a license. The license holder may operate a plant or boiler with different licenses.

Boiler operators are regulated at the state and city level. The licensing agency requires applicants to have experience in order to be considered. Employers in some countries that do not require licensing administer their own tests before hiring or promoting an employee.

Boiler operators can succeed if they have a solid foundation in certain fields and have essential personal attributes. They need to know basic physics and chemistry. Good communication skills are required of boiler operators.