Boiler is one of the most common machines used in production units. Boiler is a large vessel that stores liquids and is subject to tremendous heat. Liquid changes its form to gaseous state and processed further as per the requirement. Boiler is an important machine in manufacturing process. If it suffers any damage it will cost the organization significantly. Hence, organizations employ a team of experts who undertake work of installation, operation, repairs and engineering work of boilers. Find here a detailed description of boiler work profile:
Work Nature
Boiler work includes installation, operations, repairs and maintenance. It mostly consists of mechanical operations and technical functions. It does not include typical office responsibilities of data management or reporting. Based upon the nature of the work, the designation, responsibilities and skills differ.
Work Scope and Responsibilities
Those who work in this field are known by different names: boiler technician, worker, mechanic, setter, fitter, erector, recliner, engineer and so on. We have listed below the prominent profiles and their responsibilities in brief.
Boiler Makers: They look after the day to day functioning of the boiler and oversee its effective maintenance and regular servicing.
Boiler Installers: They install the boiler machine in the factory. They put different pieces together, weld them and set right configuration of the machine, consistent with production requirements.
Boiler Operators: They operate the equipment, add components in right proportions, adjust the heat and pressure settings, set time limits and make sure the boiler produces the vapors in required method.
Boiler Repairers: They scrutinize the assembly of the boiler and find out damages, broken or malfunctioning areas and repair them to restore the actual efficiency standards.
Boiler Supervisors: They supervise the work of installers, operators, and repairers and make certain they discharge responsibilities adeptly. Also, they scrutinize the performance of the boiler and ensure it delivers standard performance.
Boiler Engineers: They are top management level executives who provide guidance to the technicians on assembling, using and servicing the boiler machines.
Qualifications, Certifications and Skills
Qualifications
Most of the boiler technicians receive on-the-job training. Hence, acquiring a high school diploma is sufficient for boiler technicians. Certain institutes offer certifications after completion of course material and internships. However, one requires degree in mechanical engineering to take top level jobs of designing and configuring boilers.
Skills
Work Environment
Most boiler technicians work for 8-9 hours a day. They are given public holidays. They may be asked to work over time if production targets are lagging behind schedule. They enjoy benefits as set by law. However, boiler mechanics work in hazardous conditions and are prone to many diseases and disorders. The common problems that surface are:
Career Path
Although the position of a boiler maker sounds humble, they have the prospect of working at supervisory levels with experience. They may be given the opportunity to train juniors, supervise a team and report to themanager on maintenance issues. They may work as chief technician and be responsible for guiding all technical functions.
Career Outlook
Employment rate for boiler work is expected to register average growth with significant development of the manufacturing units. However, due to physically demanding nature of the profile, boiler makers tend to retire early, giving employment opportunities to newer generations quickly. Job seekers with certifications and apprenticeship experience have better chances of acquiring jobs.
Go through the boiler work description and analyze it against your qualifications, interest and career goals. If this profile appeals to you, feel free to choose it as your career path.