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Boiler Operator Trainee Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Boiler Operator Trainee information

See Indiana salary details

$12

$27

$40

How much do boiler operator trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for boiler operator trainee in Indiana is $27.43, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.88 and $31.59 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Boiler Operator Trainees?

Boiler Operator Trainees are entry-level workers who are learning how to operate, maintain, and monitor boilers and related equipment in facilities such as factories, power plants, or commercial buildings. They work under the supervision of experienced boiler operators and technicians to gain hands-on experience and knowledge about boiler systems, safety procedures, and troubleshooting techniques. The trainee period is designed to prepare individuals for certification and full-time roles as licensed boiler operators.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Boiler Operator Trainee, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Boiler Operator Trainee, you need a basic understanding of mechanical systems, safety regulations, and high school-level math and science, often with a diploma or GED. Familiarity with boiler controls, monitoring systems, and preventive maintenance tools is typically required, and pursuing a boiler operator certification can be advantageous. Attention to detail, reliability, and strong problem-solving skills are important soft skills for this role. These capabilities ensure the safe, efficient, and compliant operation of boiler systems, which is critical for facility safety and uptime.

How long does boiler operator training take?

Boiler operator training typically takes several months and includes classroom instruction, hands-on experience, and passing certification exams. The duration varies depending on the program, state requirements, and whether the trainee is pursuing a formal apprenticeship or training course.

Is being a boiler operator worth it?

Boiler operators are responsible for operating and maintaining boilers in various settings, requiring technical skills and safety knowledge. The job offers steady employment, competitive wages, and opportunities for advancement with proper certifications and experience.

What is the difference between Boiler Operator Trainee vs Boiler Operator?

AspectBoiler Operator TraineeBoiler Operator
CredentialsMay require a high school diploma and basic trainingRequires relevant certifications and experience
Work EnvironmentTraining environment, supervised, often in industrial or power plant settingsFull responsibility for operating and maintaining boilers in industrial settings
Job RoleLearning and assisting under supervisionPerforming boiler operations independently

The main difference is that a Boiler Operator Trainee is in training and learning the role, while a Boiler Operator has completed training and is responsible for operating boilers independently.

Is it hard to become a boiler operator?

Becoming a boiler operator typically requires completing a training program, gaining on-the-job experience, and obtaining relevant certifications or licenses. The process involves learning safety protocols, equipment operation, and maintenance, which can take several months to years depending on the complexity of the systems and local regulations.

What types of tasks and responsibilities can I expect during my training period as a Boiler Operator Trainee?

As a Boiler Operator Trainee, you will typically assist experienced operators with monitoring and adjusting boiler systems, performing routine inspections, recording operational data, and learning to identify early signs of equipment issues. You'll also be trained on safety protocols, basic maintenance procedures, and the correct handling of controls and instrumentation. Collaboration with maintenance and engineering teams is common, and you'll gradually take on more independent tasks as you gain proficiency. This hands-on experience is crucial for building the knowledge and skills required for full operator certification.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Boiler operator trainees typically do not earn $4,000 a week without experience or certifications. High-paying jobs that can reach this level without a degree often include specialized trades such as commercial pilots, certain sales roles, or skilled trades like elevator installers, but these usually require specific training or licenses. Most jobs paying this much weekly without a degree are rare and often involve significant experience or specialized skills.
What are the most commonly searched types of Boiler Operator jobs in Indiana? The most popular types of Boiler Operator jobs in Indiana are:
What job categories do people searching Boiler Operator Trainee jobs in Indiana look for? The top searched job categories for Boiler Operator Trainee jobs in Indiana are:
What cities in Indiana are hiring for Boiler Operator Trainee jobs? Cities in Indiana with the most Boiler Operator Trainee job openings:

Boiler/Chiller Operator Trainee

Indiana University

Bloomington, IN โ€ข On-site

$39.80/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post hasย expired 1 day ago.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Capital Planning and Facilities (CPF) works to ensure that IU campuses are beautiful, functional, and sustainable supporting excellence in teaching, learning, research, and community engagement across the entire university. A unit within CPF, Facility Operations maintains our physical campus to support research, teaching, and learning at Indiana University Bloomington. As a unit of Capital Planning and Facilities, Facility Operations provides wide-ranging services all with the goal of creating a beautiful, well-functioning campus.
Job Summary
  • Performs ash and soot removal, unloads coal trucks, fills bunkers, and general ash and coal maintenance.
  • Fires boilers, samples and treats water, general water treatment, and boiler maintenance.
  • Monitors chilled water system and responds to alarms as needed.
  • Attends all mandatory and on-the-job training sessions.
  • Performs other duties as needed relating to the operation and/or maintenance of the utility production and distribution systems.
Qualifications
EDUCATION
Required
  • High school diploma or equivalent (such as HSED or GED).
WORK EXPERIENCE
Required
  • 1 year of verifiable experience working in an industrial/mechanical/trade/utility type of environment.
LICENSES AND CERTIFICATES
Required
  • Possesses a valid driver's license and ability to be insured by Indiana University upon date of hire.
SKILLS
Required
  • Proficient communication skills.
  • Maintains a high degree of professionalism.
  • Demonstrates time management and priority setting skills.
  • Demonstrates a high commitment to quality.
  • Possesses flexibility to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
  • Seeks to acquire knowledge in area of specialty.
  • Highly thorough and dependable.
  • Demonstrates a high level of accuracy, even under pressure.
  • Excellent organizational skills.
  • Ability to represent the company with external constituents.
  • Ability to drive multiple projects to successful completion.
  • Strong verbal communication and listening skills.
  • Ability to build strong customer relationships.
  • Ability to learn how to utilize relevant tools, equipment, techniques, skills, materials and methods associated with the mechanical, electrical or operational type maintenance field. Coal conveyor systems, boiler systems, chiller systems, electrical distribution and their sub-systems. Tools involved in ash pulling, painting, cleaning, drilling, light bulb changing, parts delivery, water analysis and maintenance at a semi-skilled level. Personal Protective Equipment: Hard hat, safety glasses, steel toed boots, hearing protection, work gloves, respirator.
  • Ability to complete required safety programs.
  • Ability to work in a safe and efficient manner.
  • Ability to read, write, and speak English fluently.
  • Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions.
  • Ability to perform basic computer operations and use email utility.
  • Ability to work with wide variety of cultures and backgrounds.
Working Conditions / Demands
This role requires the ability to remain in a stationary position as well as the ability to move about the workplace for long durations. It requires effective communication, the ability to operate machinery, tools, and controls. The role requires the ability to ascend/descend ladders/stairs, and to position oneself in low level positions, detect a variety of chemicals and/or gases. The role requires the ability to ascend to rooftops and move in tight spaces to perform and complete inspections. The person in this role must be able to perform the essential functions with or without an accommodation.
Work Location
Bloomington, Indiana
This is an in person position.
Advertised Salary
This position follows a tiered training program, with hourly pay increasing as you successfully progress through each training level.
The current pay structure is as follows:
  • Levels 1 and 2: 85% of the fully trained rate - $33.83 per hour
  • Levels 3 and 4: 95% of the fully trained rate - $37.81 per hour
  • Fully Trained Operator: $39.80 per hour
Advancement through each level is based on successful completion of the required training and demonstration of the knowledge and skills necessary to perform the duties of the position.
Benefits Overview
For full-time staff employees, Indiana University offers a wide array of benefits including:
  • Comprehensive medical and dental insurance
  • Health savings account with generous IU contributions
  • Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
  • Basic group life insurance paid by IU
  • Voluntary supplemental life, long-term disability, critical illness, and supplemental accidental death & dismemberment insurance
  • Base retirement plan with generous IU contributions, subject to vesting
  • Voluntary supplemental retirement plan options
  • Tuition subsidy for employees and family members taking IU courses
  • 10 paid holidays plus a paid winter break each year
  • Generous paid time off plans
  • Paid leave for new parents and IU-sponsored volunteer events
  • Employee assistance program (EAP)
Learn more about our benefits by reviewing the IU Benefit Programs Brochure .
Job Classification
Career Level: Mastery
FLSA: Nonexempt
Job Function: Engineering, Trades & Facility
Job Family: Energy & Utilities
Click here to learn more about Indiana University's Job Framework.
Posting Disclaimer
This posting is scheduled to close at 11:59 pm EST on the advertised Close Date. This posting may be closed at any time at the discretion of the University, but will remain open for a minimum of 5 business days. To guarantee full consideration, please submit your application within 5 business days of the Posted Date.
If you wish to include a cover letter, you may include it with your resume when uploading attachments.
Equal Employment Opportunity
Indiana University is an equal opportunity employer and provider of ADA services and prohibits discrimination in hiring. See Indiana University Notice of Non-Discrimination here which includes contact information .
Campus Safety and Security
The Annual Security and Fire Safety Report, containing policy statements, crime and fire statistics for all Indiana University campuses, is available online . You may also request a physical copy by emailing IU Public Safety at iups@iu.edu or by visiting IUPD.
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