The Pluses and Minuses of Boiler Operator Jobs

Boiler operators can have a very dangerous job and accordingly, they get a pretty high rate of pay. Boiler operators work in 8 hour shifts and have rather steady work, including weekend and holidays. Some of the danger that comes with being a boiler operator is burns and explosions. On the more insidious side of thing, operators are in danger of carbon monoxide poisoning and chemical exposure that can lead to eye and skin damage.
That all said, this job is stable and because it is dangerous and boilers are in need of constant maintenance, the pay is generally very good.

People who like to work with their hands, enjoy solving problems and working on your own may find being a boiler operator or a boiler engineer something that is enjoyable. A boiler engineer oversees the boiler plant as well as operating it. In addition, you would train the people who work under you.

Boiler plant operator jobs comes with three classifications, first, second, and third. A first class engineer license comes with the title of chief boiler engineer. Each classification qualifies you for a different and higher steam generation capacity and first class is the highest.

Boiler engineers start out as boiler operators and you have to have this position for at least two years. Operators and engineers are typically trained in vocational schools and as apprentices. Although you do not need to have a college degree to work as boiler engineers or operators, it is good idea to have a high school education. Most operators or engineers have worked under more experienced operators or have some experience in gas boiler installation or other boiler maintenance tasks. With the increasing complexity of boilers and the equipment that makes them work, some college course may be required in the future. Some companies and unions will be willing to pay for skills training and some unions may even sponsor your apprenticeship. You can even get trained by a formal apprenticeship program. After completing this apprenticeship, you can apply for a license. This will help you out a lot when you apply to work as a boiler operator or engineer.

No related posts.