Boilermakers

Career summary

#4/1/19 lh

Boilermakers read blueprints and mark reference points on boiler foundations. They attach ropes or chains to the boiler pieces, and signal to crane operators where to move them. Boilermakers use hammers, files, grinders, and cutting torches to remove uneven edges or reshape bent plates. They align the sections and bolt or weld the pieces to attach them. They test for leaks or other defects. They may put together large pieces before installation to make sure everything fits.

Boilermakers regularly maintain boilers. They update the burners, boiler tubes, and other parts to increase efficiency. Boilermaker mechanics inspect boilers and repair or replace any parts that are not working properly.

Related careers

This career is part of the Architecture and Construction cluster of careers.

Related careers include:

• Building Maintenance Workers
• Gas and Oil Drillers
• Hydroelectric Plant Technicians
• Millwrights
• Plumbers and Pipefitters
• Pump Operators
• Security and Fire Alarm Systems Installers
• Sheet Metal Workers
• Stationary Engineers
• Structural Metal Workers
• Welders and Solderers

Job duties

Task list

The following list of tasks is specific to boilermakers.

• Examine boilers, tanks, and vats to find defects.
• Build and install boilers and other pressure vessels.
• Study blueprints. Mark reference points for placement of parts being assembled.
• Layout metal. Locate and mark bending and cutting lines.
• Lift large parts into place, using rigging equipment.
• Bolt or weld structures and parts to ensure leak-proof joints.
• Clean, maintain, and repair equipment and parts.
• Inspect and test assembled vessels for faulty accessories or leakage.
• Shape and cut seams, joints, irregular edges of sections, bent plates, and structural parts.
• Assemble large vessels before installation to make sure everything fits.

Common work activities

Boilermakers perform the following tasks. These tasks are common to many careers.

• Control machines and processes
• Handle and move objects
• Perform activities that use the whole body
• Make decisions and solve problems
• Repair and maintain mechanical equipment
• Evaluate information against standards
• Operate vehicles or mechanized equipment
• Inspect equipment, structures, or materials
• Monitor events, materials, and surroundings
• Communicate with supervisors, peers, or subordinates
• Update and use job-related knowledge
• Judge the value of objects, services, or people
• Develop goals and strategies
• Estimate sizes, quantities, time, cost, or materials needed
• Organize, plan, and prioritize work
• Identify objects, actions, and events
• Get information needed to do the job
• Provide information or drawings about devices, equipment, or structures
• Establish and maintain relationships
• Think creatively
• Guide, direct, and motivate others
• Teach others
• Process information
• Analyze data or information
• Assist and care for others
• Develop and build teams
• Schedule work and activities
• Resolve conflicts and negotiate with others
• Document and record information

Work requirements

Working conditions

In a typical work setting, boilermakers:

Interpersonal relationships

• Communicate on a daily basis by telephone and in face-to-face discussions. They may write emails and memos, but less frequently.
• Have a medium level of social interaction. Boilermakers often work alone but also communicate with supervisors and other building personnel.
• Sometimes work as part of a team.
• Are responsible for the health and safety of others. They must make sure boilers work safely.
• Are responsible for the work done by others.

Physical work conditions

• Regularly wear hardhats, harnesses, protective clothing, safety glasses and shoes, and respirators.
• Are often exposed to loud noises.
• Are regularly exposed to contaminants.
• Often lift heavy objects or work in hot, cramped quarters with very little light.
• Sometimes work in hazardous conditions and situations.
• Often work indoors where temperatures may not be controlled. Sometimes they work outdoors when supervising the transport of boiler pieces into a building.
• Often work with hazardous equipment, such as gas torches and power grinders.
• Must get into awkward positions to reach cramped work spaces.
• May be exposed to high places.
• Travel to and from work sites in a car, van, or truck.
• May share work space with others.

Work performance

• Must fully complete and be exact in their work. Errors could result in serious injury to self, coworkers, or building occupants.
• Make decisions on a daily basis that greatly impact their employers and customers. They almost always make these decisions independently.
• Set nearly all their daily tasks and goals by themselves, without input from a supervisor.
• Work in a moderately competitive atmosphere where weekly deadlines must be met.

Hours/travel

• Usually work a 40-hour week.
• May work overtime to meet deadlines or make emergency repairs.
• Can expect their work to be seasonal. Workload will vary depending on the time of year.
• Often travel and may be away from home for extended periods.

Physical demands

Boilermakers frequently:

• Use their hands to handle, control, or feel objects, tools, or controls.
• Stand for long periods of time.
• Walk or run for long periods of time.
• Bend or twist their body.
• Repeat the same movements.

It is important for boilermakers to be able to:

• Hold the arm and hand in one position or hold the hand steady while moving the arm.
• Use fingers to grasp, move, or assemble very small objects.
• Make quick, precise adjustments to machine controls.
• See details of objects that are less than a few feet away.
• Use one or two hands to grasp, move, or assemble objects.
• Move two or more limbs together (for example, two arms, two legs, or one leg and one arm) while remaining in place.
• Use stomach and lower back muscles to support the body for long periods without getting tired.
• Use muscles to lift, push, pull, or carry heavy objects.
• React quickly using hands, fingers, or feet.
• Bend, stretch, twist, or reach out.
• See details of objects that are more than a few feet away.
• Understand the speech of another person.
• Speak clearly so listeners can understand.
• Focus on one source of sound and ignore others.

It is not as important, but still necessary, for boilermakers to be able to:

• Hear sounds and recognize the difference between them.
• Determine the distance between objects.
• Adjust body movements or equipment controls to keep pace with speed changes of moving objects.
• Choose quickly and correctly among various movements when responding to different signals.
• Keep or regain the body's balance or stay upright when in an unstable position.
• Be physically active for long periods without getting tired or out of breath.
• See differences between colors, shades, and brightness.
• Use muscles for extended periods without getting tired.
• Coordinate movement of several parts of the body, such as arms and legs, while the body is moving.
• See objects in very bright or glaring light.
• Make fast, repeated movements of fingers, hands, and wrists.
• While looking forward, see objects or movements that are off to the side.
• See objects in very low light.
• Determine from which direction a sound came.

Skills and abilities

Boilermakers need to:

Communicate

• Understand spoken information.
• Understand written information.
• Speak clearly so listeners can understand.
• Read and understand work-related materials.
• Write clearly so other people can understand.
• Listen to others and ask questions.

Reason and problem solve

• Notice when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong.
• Use reasoning to discover answers to problems.
• Analyze ideas and use logic to determine their strengths and weaknesses.
• Combine several pieces of information and draw conclusions.
• Follow guidelines to arrange objects or actions in a certain order.
• Judge the costs and benefits of a possible action.
• Develop rules that group items in various ways.
• Understand new information or materials by studying and working with them.
• Recognize the nature of a problem.
• Concentrate and not be distracted while performing a task.

Manage oneself, people, time, and things

• Check how well one is learning or doing something.
• Manage the time of self and others.

Work with things

• Watch gauges, dials, and output to make sure a machine is working properly.
• Operate and control equipment.
• Inspect and evaluate the quality of products.
• Maintain equipment on a routine basis. Determine when and what kind of maintenance is needed.
• Determine the causes of technical problems and find solutions for them.
• Repair machines or systems.
• Determine the tools and equipment needed to do a job.

Perceive and visualize

• Imagine how something will look if it is moved around or its parts are rearranged.
• Quickly and accurately compare letters, numbers, objects, pictures, or patterns.
• Identify a pattern (a figure, object, word, or sound) that is hidden in distracting material.

Education and training

Educational programs

The programs of study listed below will help you prepare for the occupation or career cluster you are exploring.

Programs of study directly related to this occupation

• Apprenticeship Programs
• Construction Trades

Other programs of study to consider

• Building Construction Technology
• Industrial Mechanics
• Plumbing and Water Supply
• Sheet Metal Technology
• Welding Technology

Training

To work as a boilermaker, you typically need to:

• have a high school diploma or equivalent; and
• complete an apprenticeship program.

Education after high school

Boilermakers learn their skills through apprenticeship training programs. Admission to apprenticeship programs is competitive. To apply for an apprenticeship, you must:

• have a high school diploma or equivalent;
• be at least 18 years old; and
• be in good physical condition.

Apprenticeship programs usually consist of four years of on-the-job training. You are paid for the time you spend on the job. In addition, each year you receive at least 144 hours of classroom training.

To learn about specific apprenticeship opportunities in your area, consult the US Department of Labor State Apprenticeship Information  website.

You can prepare for an apprenticeship by taking courses at a professional-technical or two-year school. Courses in shop, general math, and drafting prepare students to enter apprenticeship programs. However, these courses are not required to qualify for an apprenticeship.

Washington apprenticeships

In Washington, to enter the apprenticeship program, applicants should:

• be at least 18 years old and be able to show proof of age via a birth certificate;
• have a high school diploma or equivalent with transcript;
• be physically able to do the work of the trade;
• be willing to complete all required course work and follow the rules set up by the local apprenticeship committee; and
• be willing to take drug and alcohol tests each year.

Some apprenticeship programs also require applicants to:

• have letters of recommendation;
• be interviewed by the apprenticeship committee; and
• score 70 percent or better on a basic math test.

For further information on apprenticeships in Washington, contact:

Washington State Department of Labor and Industries
Apprenticeship Program 
PO Box 44530
Olympia, WA 98504-4530
360.902.5320

#Checked apprenticeship info , 2/15/18 cj. 4/1/19 lh

Helpful high school courses

You should take a general high school curriculum that meets the state's graduation requirements. You will be required to take both math and science classes to graduate. You should consider taking Algebra and Geometry as your math courses and Chemistry and Physics as your science courses.

Helpful electives to take in high school that prepare you for this career include:

• Blueprint Reading
• Equipment Maintenance and Repair
• Industrial Arts
• Introduction to Mechanics
• Safety and First Aid
• Sheet Metal
• Welding

The courses listed above are meant to help you create your high school plan. If you have not already done so, talk to a school counselor or parent about the courses you are considering taking.

You should also check with a teacher or counselor to see if work-based learning opportunities are available in your school and community. These might include field trips, job shadowing, internships, and actual work experience. The goal of these activities is to help you connect your school experiences with real-life work.

Join some groups, try some hobbies, or volunteer with an organization that interests you. By participating in activities you can have fun, make new friends, and learn about yourself. Maybe one of them will help direct you to a future career. Here are examples of activities and groups that may be available in your high school or community.

Things to know

Employers prefer to hire helpers who are high school or vocational school graduates. They also prefer employees who have been trained or are experienced in handling and using tools. Many employers look to union hiring halls to find the skilled workers they are seeking.

Many employers prefer experienced workers who have completed a four-year apprenticeship. Employers may also look for applicants who are certified welders. Apprenticeship programs give priority to applicants who have welding certification.

#Western JAC website application info 5/12/13 lh

Journey-level workers may be able to find work in the machinist, pipefitter, ironworker, or sheet metal trades if those unions cannot supply qualified workers.

Tips

Take metal shop classes. Washington Association of Building Officials (WABO) and stick welding certifications are helpful.

Costs to workers

Workers need to buy protective clothing such as a welding jacket and steel-toed boots. Most workers are required to join a union and pay an initiation fee and dues.

Licensing/certification

Some states require boilermakers to be certified. Requirements vary by state.

Job listings

Listed below are links to job categories from the National Labor Exchange that relate to this career. Once you get a list of jobs, you can view information about individual jobs and find out how to apply. If your job search finds too many openings, or if you wish to search for jobs outside of Washington, you will need to refine your search.

• Boilermakers 

To get a listing of current jobs from the WorkSource system, go to the WorkSource website .

Wages

#In Washington, the average entry-level wage for boilermakers is $19.93 per hour ($3,454 per month).

#Updated ES wage info 07.16 sd

Pay varies with the worker's education, experience, and the location of the employer. Starting apprentices make about 60 percent of experienced boilermakers' hourly rate. Their wages go up as they gain more skills and experience.

Boilermakers who work full time usually receive benefits. Common benefits include sick leave, paid vacation, health insurance, and a retirement plan.

About half of all boilermakers belong to a union. Most of them belong to the International Brotherhood of Boilermakers. The rest belong to the International Association of Machinists, the United Automobile Workers, or the United Steelworkers of America unions.

Employment and outlook

Washington outlook

The table below provides information about the number of workers in this career in various regions. It also provides information about the expected growth rate and future job openings.

National employment

The majority of boilermakers work in boiler manufacturing or repair shops.

Major employers:

• Heavy construction companies
• Building equipment contractors
• Boiler manufacturers

National outlook

Growth in this occupation is expected to increase however the amount of growth will depend on the cost of coal or natural gas. Energy produced with coal requires more boilers so if the price of natural gas is low fewer boilers are required.

Since boilermaking is difficult work, there is high turnover. Some job openings will occur from the need to replace people who leave the job or retire. Few people are learning to become boilermakers. Thus, those who finish their training will have good job prospects. Those with welding certifications will have the best opportunities.

Other resources

American Boiler Manufacturers Association 
8221 Old Courthouse Road, Suite 380
Vienna, VA 22015
703.356.7172

American Welding Society 
8669 NW 36 Street, #130
Miami, FL 33166
800.443.9353
305.443.9353

Boilermakers National Apprenticeship Program 
753 State Avenue, Suite 480
Kansas City, KS 66101
913.342.2100

International Brotherhood of Boilermakers, Iron Shipbuilders, Blacksmiths, Forgers, and Helpers 
753 State Avenue, Suite 570
Kansas City, KS 66101
913.371.2640

North America's Building Trades Unions (NABTU) 
815 16th ST, NW, Suite 600
Washington, D.C. 20006

United Steelworkers of America 
60 Boulevard of the Allies
Pittsburgh, PA 15222
412.562.2400

Welding.com 

Western States Boilermaker Joint Apprenticeship Committee 
Boilermakers Local 502
16621 - 110th Avenue East
Puyallup, WA 98374-6857
253.435.0330

References

Career cluster

• Architecture and Construction

Career path

• Realistic (Technical)

O*Net  occupation

• Boilermakers (47-2011.00) 

O*Net job zone 

• Job Zone 3 - Medium preparation needed. Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations.

DOT occupations

• Boilerhouse Mechanic (805.361-010) 
• Boilermaker Apprentice (805.261-010) 
• Boilermaker Fitter (805.361-014) 
• Boilermaker I (805.261-014) 
• Boilermaker II (805.381-010) 

Holland occupational clusters

• Realistic/Conventional/Enterprising
• Realistic/Conventional/Investigative

COPSystem

• Technology Skilled