Boiler operators perform a range of tasks involved in day-to-day operation and maintenance of boilers. They ensure appropriate fuel delivery to keep the boiler working. Operators devote significant time to monitoring meters and gauges to maintain fuel, chemical and water levels, adjusting the levels as necessary. Additional tasks include maintenance and repairs.
While a high school diploma suffices for some boiler operator jobs, if you have a complex system, your boiler operator job description should include additional educational or training requirements. Find out if your location requires a specific type of licensing or certification so you can include it in your job description.
A boiler operator must possess the physical stamina and manual dexterity to properly perform all tasks. Attention to detail is also essential, as the operator must monitor equipment and quickly identify potential safety issues. Our boiler operator job description template below includes further key characteristics.
Boiler Operator Job Summary
If you are looking for a challenging position with a high degree of independence and responsibility, consider applying for our boiler operator position. Our company is a reputable manufacturer with several plants located throughout the country. As the boiler operator at our Ohio plant, you will supervise a team of assistant boiler tenders and mechanics in ensuring the building’s mechanical systems stay in top working condition. Our system is newly installed and includes many cutting-edge safety features. You will work with top-of-the-line equipment and a great team of motivated and knowledgeable professionals. We offer a competitive compensation package as well as numerous training opportunities and access to the latest technology.
Job Responsibilities
- Ensure optimal and continuous operation of mechanical systems by performing routine inspections and maintenance, monitoring metering equipment and adjusting levels as necessary
- Maintain systems by scheduling regular inspections, cleanings, filter replacement and all other tasks necessary to keep all components performing optimally; identify and repair or replace malfunctioning components
- Ensure safety by monitoring safety equipment, identifying potential issues and taking appropriate steps to suspend operations and repair the problem
- Perform necessary repairs and replacements, obtain replacement parts and upgrade components as needed while staying within the budget
- Supervise team of assistant operators and mechanics by delegating repair, maintenance and monitoring tasks, scheduling jobs, providing appropriate instruction and giving constructive feedback on performance
- Study to keep current on knowledge of all applicable safety laws and regulations in order to ensure full compliance at all times
- Create and enter properly documented records of inspections, maintenance routines and repairs
- Sustain up-to-date knowledge of developments in relevant technology and make recommendations for overhauls and upgrades
Job Skills & Qualifications
Reqiured:
- Top-level boiler operator license in at least one state
- Minimum 5 years of experience with complex systems and/or the industrial sector
- Supervisory and/or project management experience
- Excellent oral and written communication skills
- Detail-oriented and highly safety-conscious
Preferred:
- Completed apprenticeship program
- Proficiency in computerized maintenance management system
Boiler Operator Job Responsibilities
One of the best ways to make your boiler operator job description as strong as possible is to focus on the job responsibilities section. The information here is commonly considered most important because it is what readers use to gain a clearer understanding of the position. It should be your goal to explain the ins and outs of the job opening without being too vague or intimidating.
6-8 bullet points is a good length to be sure it is not too long or short. Hiring experts also recommend that every bullet point in your boiler operator job responsibilities section begin with a strong action verb. This helps reader picture themselves working in the position.
The following sample entries include several strong verb choice examples to help you when you are writing your own boiler operator job description:
- Manage the boiler and other related machinery, ensuring it is functional and safe at all times
- Inspect safety devices on a daily basis, running tests and reporting any unusual situations
- Monitor boiler water and fuel levels, making adjustments and activating valves as necessary to keep the boiler operational
- Maintain records of operation, fuel and water levels, completed maintenance and other data
Boiler Operator Job Specifications
The job qualifications and skills section that details the expectations should be at the end of your boiler operator job description. While this information should be as brief as possible, do not assume it is unimportant. These details are what jobseekers consider when deciding whether to apply for the position, which means it has a direct influence over how many applications you receive. This small section can make the difference between experiencing a smooth and successful hiring process and having to sort through an overwhelming number of unqualified applicants.
Separate the boiler operator job specifications into two categories: mandatory and preferred qualifications. This is one of the most effective ways to format this information. Speaking with the hiring manager or someone already working as a boiler operator can help you understand which qualities are deal-breakers and which are less strict.
Review the following example entries, which include both sample mandatory and preferred qualifications, to get started on your boiler operator job description:
- Full certification to operate standard boiler machinery
- 2 years of working experience as a boiler operator required, 4 years preferred
- High physical strength, grip strength and dexterity
- Good attention to small details and highly organized
- Mechanical skills, as well as critical thinking and problem-solving abilities