Boiler Engineer Training

A boiler engineer can work in a boiler room at a plant.

A boiler engineer operates and maintains boilers and other mechanical equipment to provide utilities for large buildings or industrial plants. According to the Occupational Information Network, the boiler engineer occupation is often combined with the occupation of stationary engineers.

Requirements

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, most employers seek job candidates with at least a high school diploma.

Types

According to College Board, a non-profit that connects students with educational opportunities, most boiler operators undergo a four-year apprenticeship program with the International Union of Operating Engineers that includes 600 hours of classroom study and 6,000 hours of paid on-the-job training. Another option is on-the-job training combined with coursework at a trade or technical institute. A way to gain experience is to serve the Navy or Merchant Marines, since Marine engineering plants are like many stationary power and heating plants.

Considerations

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, many state and local governments require licensing. Applicants must be at least 18 years old, meet experience requirements and pass a written exam. Each state has different specifications.

References

• Occupational Information Network: Stationary Engineers and Boiler Operators
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Stationary Engineers and Boiler Operators
• College Board: Stationary Engineers and Boiler Operators

Resources

• International Union of Operating Engineers
• National Association of Power Engineers