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Boiler Attendant

Boiler attendants look after and maintain boilers that produce steam for heat or power.

Tasks & duties

Boiler attendants may do some or all of the following:

read the boiler logbook and record details of problems and performance
complete boiler safety checks
move controls to operate the boiler
maintain the correct water and fuel levels in the boiler
watch the gauges to maintain the correct temperature and pressure
keep the tubes clear
test the water
add chemicals to adjust the water quality
clean and maintain the boiler and work area

Skills & knowledge

Boiler attendants need to have:

knowledge of how to use and maintain boilers
an understanding of fuels used to heat the boiler and chemicals used in the boiler
knowledge of water, water treatment, steam generation and combustion
mechanical and practical skills
problem-solving skills

Entry requirements

To become a boiler attendant you usually start as an apprentice or trainee and study towards a National Certificate in Energy and Chemical Plant (Process Operation) Levels 2 and 4.

For information about apprenticeships contact the Extractive Industry Training Organisation (EXITO).

Secondary education

There are no specific secondary education requirements to become a boiler attendant. English, maths and science, including chemistry, could be useful.

Training on the job

Boiler attendants gain skills on the job and can complete a National Certificate in Energy and Chemical Plant (Process Operation) Level 4, which allows them to maintain boilers that have a higher energy output. Boiler attendants need to keep up to date with advances in boiler technology and safe work practices.