Boiler or engine operator
Boiler or engine operators operate and maintain stationary boilers and engines, and associated mechanical plant equipment. They maintain boilers that are used to supply heat or steam for power that operates machines. They may light the fuel used in the boiler and control the flow of fuel and water into the boiler. They monitor the control panel and regulate temperature, pressure, draft and other operational parameters. They also observe the boiler and secondary units to check for any faults, and perform minor repairs as well as required maintenance. They may also need to treat the water used in the boiler with special chemicals.
Working conditions
Boiler operators may work in an environment that is hot, noisy and dusty. They must be safety-conscious and will usually have to wear protective clothing and equipment. Depending on where they work, they may be required to stand all day or work in confined spaces or at heights.
They tend to work regular hours but this could involve shift work. Boiler operators can find employment throughout the State. If employed by a mining company, in the Pilbara for instance, they may work on a Fly In/Fly Out basis.
Tools and technologies
Boiler operators need to be proficient with the equipment they are controlling, which will vary from job to job.
Education and training
To become a boiler or engine operator you usually need to gain a qualification to operate a boiler.
The Operate and Monitor Intermediate Class Boiler, Licence to Operate an Advanced Boiler, and Licence to Operate a Steam Turbine short course qualifications are available at registered training organisations throughout Western Australia.
You may improve your job prospects if you complete a qualification in process plant operations or process plant technology. The Certificate III in Process Plant Operations and Certificate IV in Process Plant Technology are offered at TAFE colleges and other registered training organisations throughout Western Australia.
Boiler or engine operators in the maritime industry usually need to gain a qualification in maritime operations. The Certificate II in Maritime Operations (Marine Engine Driver Grade 3 Near Coastal) and Certificate III in Maritime Operations (Marine Engine Driver Grade 2 Near Coastal) are offered at TAFE colleges and other registered training organisations throughout Western Australia.
Browse courses through Jobs and Skills WA and search on the My Skills website to find a registered provider near you.
You can also undertake a traineeship in maritime operations - marine engine driving (level 2 or level 3), process plant operations (level 3) or process plant technology (level 4). The traineeships usually take between 6 and 24 months, and are available as school-based traineeships
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