Boiler Operator

Supervise the work of assistant stationary engineers, turbine operators, boiler tenders, or air conditioning and refrigeration operators and mechanics.

Observe and interpret readings on gauges, meters, and charts registering various aspects of boiler operation to ensure that boilers are operating properly.

Switch from automatic to manual controls and isolate equipment mechanically and electrically to allow for safe inspection and repair work.

Monitor boiler water, chemical, and fuel levels, and make adjustments to maintain required levels.

Fire coal furnaces by hand or with stokers and gas- or oil-fed boilers, using automatic gas feeds or oil pumps.

Receive instructions from steam engineers regarding steam plant and air compressor operations.

Clean and lubricate boilers and auxiliary equipment and make minor adjustments as needed, using hand tools.

Check the air quality of ventilation systems and make adjustments to ensure compliance with mandated safety codes.

Test electrical systems to determine voltages, using voltage meters.

Adjust controls and/or valves on equipment to provide power, and to regulate and set operations of system or industrial processes.

Develop operation, safety, and maintenance procedures or assist in their development.

Ignite fuel in burners, using torches or flames.

Operate or tend stationary engines, boilers, and auxiliary equipment, such as pumps, compressors, or air-conditioning equipment, to supply and maintain steam or heat for buildings, marine vessels, or pneumatic tools.

Test boiler water quality or arrange for testing and take necessary corrective action, such as adding chemicals to prevent corrosion and harmful deposits.

Maintain daily logs of operation, maintenance, and safety activities, including test results, instrument readings, and details of equipment malfunctions and maintenance work.

Install burners and auxiliary equipment, using hand tools.

Weigh, measure, and record fuel used.

Activate valves to maintain required amounts of water in boilers, to adjust supplies of combustion air, and to control the flow of fuel into burners.

Perform or arrange for repairs, such as complete overhauls, replacement of defective valves, gaskets, or bearings, or fabrication of new parts.

Monitor and inspect equipment, computer terminals, switches, valves, gauges, alarms, safety devices, and meters to detect leaks or malfunctions and to ensure that equipment is operating efficiently and safely.

Provide assistance to plumbers in repairing or replacing water, sewer, or waste lines, and in daily maintenance activities.

Contact equipment manufacturers or appropriate specialists when necessary to resolve equipment problems.