A boilermaker plays a crucial role in the construction and repair of large containers or vessels that hold liquids and gases. These skilled craftsmen work with metal to create, assemble, and repair boilers, tanks, and other large industrial equipment.
The role requires a combination of physical strength, technical knowledge, and attention to detail, as boilermakers often work in cramped and challenging environments. In this guide, we will provide a comprehensive job description template that outlines the key responsibilities, qualifications, and skills that a boilermaker should possess.
Whether you are looking to hire a boilermaker or are interested in pursuing this career path, this information will help you understand what to expect in this vital role.
Boilermakers are responsible for a variety of tasks, including: 1. Reading blueprints and schematics: Understanding and interpreting technical drawings to assemble and install boiler systems properly.
2. Fabricating and welding: Cutting, shaping, and welding metal components to create and repair boilers and tanks.
3. Conducting inspections: Examining completed work for quality and compliance with safety standards.
4. Testing systems: Performing pressure tests to ensure that installations are safe and functioning properly.
5. Maintaining equipment: Performing regular maintenance and repairs to keep equipment operating efficiently.
6. Collaborating with team members: Working alongside engineers, technicians, and other tradespeople to ensure project completion.
To be successful as a boilermaker, candidates should possess the following qualifications:
- •Education: A high school diploma or equivalent; vocational training in welding or metal fabrication is preferred.
- •Experience: Proven experience as a boilermaker or in a related field is highly beneficial.
- •Licensing: Depending on local regulations, a boilermaker may be required to hold specific licenses or certifications.
- •Skills: Strong welding and metalworking skills, good problem-solving abilities, and physical stamina. The ability to work in confined spaces and at heights is also essential.
Key skills for boilermakers include:
- •Welding proficiency: The ability to perform various types of welding, including MIG and TIG welding.
- •Attention to detail: Ensuring accuracy in measurements and quality in the finished product.
- •Communication skills: Effectively collaborating with colleagues and understanding directions from engineers.
- •Physical fitness: The job often requires lifting heavy materials and working in strenuous positions.
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Key Responsibilities
1.
- •Assemble pressure vessels, tubes, headers, and support frames using shop drawings and welding procedures. Typical daily tasks include installing 5–10 tube sections or assembling 1–2 small to mid-size skid-mounted boilers.
- •Why it matters: Proper assembly ensures safe pressure containment and reduces rework that can delay project timelines by weeks.
2.
- •Perform SMAW, FCAW, and TIG welding to code (e.g., AWS/ASME). Cut on average 10–30 linear feet of plate or pipe per shift with oxy-fuel or plasma systems.
- •Why it matters: High-quality welds maintain structural integrity under pressures up to 1,000 psi and temperatures above 500°F.
3.
- •Diagnose leaks, tube failures, and valve malfunctions; execute repairs within targeted windows (commonly 2–8 hours for critical failures).
- •Why it matters: Rapid response limits downtime that can cost plants $1,000s per hour.
4.
- •Perform hydrostatic and pneumatic tests, dye-penetrant or magnetic particle inspections, and log test results for 10–20 units per week.
- •Why it matters: Documented tests ensure regulatory compliance and reduce liability.
5.
- •Operate cranes and slings to move loads up to 5 tons; oversee safe rigging for alignments to ±1/8 inch.
- •Why it matters: Precise placement prevents misalignment that causes vibration and premature failure.
6.
- •Execute scheduled checks on burners, refractory, and safety valves; replace worn parts to extend equipment life by 15–30%.
- •Why it matters: Proactive maintenance lowers emergency repairs and operating costs.
7.
- •Lead small crews (2–6 people), mentor apprentices, and update permit-to-work plans. Track productivity metrics (e.g., job completion rate, safety incidents).
- •Why it matters: Skilled teams finish projects on schedule and keep incident rates low.
Actionable takeaway: Prioritize weld quality, timely inspections, and clear documentation to minimize downtime and meet safety codes.
Required Qualifications
Technical skills
- •Welding to code (AWS/ASME): Must pass visual and weld coupon tests; used daily for pressure-retaining joints.
- •Blueprint reading and layout: Read isometric and fabrication drawings to within ±1/8 inch; used for installation and fit-up.
- •Rigging and material handling: Operate cranes and set slings for loads up to 5 tons; ensures safe component placement.
- •Testing & NDT basics (hydrostatic, MPI, PT): Conduct tests and record results; prevents leaks and code violations.
Soft skills
- •Clear communication: Give shift handovers and incident reports that reduce errors by 30%.
- •Problem-solving: Troubleshoot burner or tube failures under time pressure to restore operation quickly.
- •Attention to detail: Follow torque specs and welding procedures to avoid rework.
Education & certifications
- •Must-have: High school diploma or GED plus completed boiler maker apprenticeship (2–4 years) or equivalent.
- •Must-have: AWS welding certification and OSHA 10-hour or 30-hour card.
- •Nice-to-have: NCCER certification, ASME Section I/III familiarity, and state boiler operator license.
Experience requirements
- •Must-have: 3–5 years of hands-on boiler or industrial pressure-vessel work in plants, refineries, or shipyards.
- •Nice-to-have: Experience with steam turbines, burner controls, or heat-recovery systems.
- •Nice-to-have: NDT certifications (UT, RT, MT) and confined-space/H2S training.
Actionable takeaway: To be competitive, combine an apprenticeship or 3+ years’ experience with AWS welding certification and OSHA safety training; add NDT or boiler-operator credentials to stand out.