1

Boiler Operator Trainee Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Boiler Operator Trainee information

See Ohio salary details

$12

$27

$39

How much do boiler operator trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for boiler operator trainee in Ohio is $27.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.84 and $31.54 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a boiler operator trainee?

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 does a boiler operator trainee do?

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a boiler operator trainee?

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.

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.

How long does boiler operator trainee training take?

Boiler operator trainee training typically lasts from several months up to a year, depending on the program and state requirements. Trainees often complete classroom instruction, hands-on experience, and may need to obtain certifications such as a boiler operator license during this period.

Is being a boiler operator trainee worth it?

Becoming a boiler operator trainee can be worthwhile as it provides hands-on experience in operating and maintaining boilers, often leading to certification and career advancement in the energy or manufacturing sectors. The role requires technical skills, attention to safety protocols, and may involve shift work, but it offers stable employment opportunities and potential for growth.

Is it hard to become a boiler operator trainee?

Becoming a boiler operator trainee typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, and some positions may require completion of a training program or apprenticeship. The role involves learning to operate and maintain boilers, often under supervision, and obtaining relevant certifications can be part of the process. The difficulty varies depending on prior experience and the specific employer's requirements.

What training is required for boiler operator trainees?

Boiler operator trainees typically complete classroom instruction and hands-on training covering boiler operation, safety procedures, and maintenance. Many states or employers require trainees to obtain a license or certification, which may involve passing written and practical exams. Training duration varies but generally includes several months of supervised experience and coursework to ensure competence in operating and maintaining boilers safely.

What are the most commonly searched types of Boiler Operator jobs in Ohio?

The most popular types of Boiler Operator jobs in Ohio are:

What job categories do people searching Boiler Operator Trainee jobs in Ohio look for?

The top searched job categories for Boiler Operator Trainee jobs in Ohio are:

What cities in Ohio are hiring for Boiler Operator Trainee jobs?

Cities in Ohio with the most Boiler Operator Trainee job openings:

Infographic showing various Boiler Operator Trainee job openings in Ohio as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 56% Full Time, and 44% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $57,009 per year, or $27.4 per hour.

Stationary Steam Engineer

Cuyahoga Heights, OH โ€ข On-site

Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District
Environmental Consulting Servicesย โ€ขย 201 - 500 employees

$35.80/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 4 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Operate and monitor wastewater treatment facilities and equipment, including fluidized-bed and multiple hearth incinerators, steam turbines, and high pressure boiler systems.

  • Perform routine maintenance, inspections, and adjustments on equipment such as boilers, incinerators, blowers, compressors, and associated machinery.

  • Record operating data, interpret gauges and alarms, and make control adjustments to maintain proper operating conditions.


Job description

JOB SUMMARY
Under general supervision, performs responsible work in operating and maintaining wastewater treatment facilities and equipment in various processes or units as needed. Performs skilled work in operating and maintaining fluidized-bed and/or multiple hearth incinerators, steam turbines, high pressure boiler systems and associated equipment and machinery. Performs responsible work in operating blowers process air compressors, monitoring dissolved oxygen readings, associated equipment and machinery. Performs other duties of a similar nature as may be required.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Performs any combination of, but not limited to the following duties according to specific departmental guidelines:
  • Performs operational duties and routine maintenance while assigned to an operating shift. WPO C1's will be required to operate or monitor more than one unit in a given shift.
  • Operates fluidized-bed incinerators, steam generating facilities, steam turbines and associated compressors, pumps, motors and valves, fluidized air blowers and air compressors of various sizes through the use of Human Machine Interface (HMI) and Operator Interface Terminal (OIT) and manual controls.
  • Maintains proper operating conditions of the Waste Heat Boiler, including the monitoring of automated Soot Blower System using the computer terminals HMI and OIT.
  • Oversees and operates high pressure steam boiler systems, including Water Treatment and Reverse Osmosis
  • Inspect and replace ion exchange tanks when necessary.
  • Performs the startup and shut down of preheat burners and scrubber system.
  • Regularly monitors sand levels in the Sand Silo System and maintains sufficient levels by manually replenishing sand beds when needed. Monitor and replenish softener tank by adding salt in the appropriate tank.
  • Monitors and maintains the Ash System through the use of the HMI, OIT and/or manual controls.
  • Operates units by controlling and monitoring equipment and processes manually and through the use of control systems, such as computers and programmable controllers.
  • Records operating data. Maintains operating log and records.
  • Inspects equipment by sight, sound and touch in order to ensure proper operation and determine operating efficiency of equipment.
  • Monitors, interprets and records gauges, chart and meter readings. Initiates changes as determined through operating conditions, process variables, calculations, test results and interpretation of data.
  • Monitors and responds to process alarms.
  • Makes necessary changes and adjust controls to maintain proper operating conditions and achieve specified operational objectives.
  • Opens and closes valves and gates to properly route or adjust process air flow for various operational modes.
  • Performs routine analytical tests and records results including water treatment analysis using conductivity and pH analyzing devices.
  • Observes proper procedures for starting up and shutting down equipment.
  • Performs routine maintenance, lubrication, adjustment and inspection of equipment and reports results.
  • Writes work request, follows lock-out tag-out procedure.
  • Assists supervisors in training new operators by providing opportunity to operate equipment, sharing knowledge and providing trainees with opportunities to shadow and observe work behaviors.
  • Performs general clean-up and painting of equipment and work area. Maintains a neat and orderly work environment.
  • Observes safe work practices.
  • Assists in developing standard operating procedures for safe working environment.
  • May be called upon, in limited circumstances, to support operational needs related to incineration at any facility.
  • Performs other duties of a similar nature as may be necessary, required or directed.

MINIMUM JOB REQUIREMENTS
EDUCATION
Candidate must possess a high school diploma, GED or state recognized equivalent.
EXPERIENCE
  • Candidate must have three (3) years of experience performing skilled work in the operation and maintenance of steam turbines and boilers.
  • Experience in fluidized-bed and/or multiple hearth incinerators is preferred.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS
LICENSURE AND CERTIFICATIONS
  • Candidate must possess a current and valid Stationary Engineer's License issued by the State of Ohio.
  • Candidate must possess a valid driver's license with a driving record in accordance with the District's acceptable guidelines.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
  • Candidate must possess knowledge of the hazards and safety precautions of the Must also possess knowledge of the tools, equipment, materials and supplies pertinent to the trade.
  • Candidate must possess the ability to operate and maintain a variety of stationary engines, boilers and associated.
  • Candidate must be able to read and understand operating manuals, blueprints, drawings, keep records and follow oral and written instructions. Must be able to maintain sound judgments and decisions based on interpretation of data and known unit goals.
  • Candidate must be able to work unscheduled hours during emergency, unusual situations and/or filling in for vacant shifts, including rotating shifts.

PHYSICAL AND MENTAL REQUIREMENTS
During the course of performing the essential functions of this position the employee must be able to compare, compute, analyze, synthesize, copy, compile, coordinate, negotiate and instruct. Ability to communicate while exhibiting strong interpersonal skills is required. Physical work will need to be performed, such as standing, sitting, balancing, kneeling, handling, feeling, hearing, walking, climbing, stooping, crouching, reaching, fingering, talking and control of others. Ability to lift up to 80 lbs. on an occasional basis. Employee must be able to lift and stack 80 lbs. bags of salt and must be able to exert up to 46 lbs. of push/pull force to move 55 GL drums on drum dollies. Must be able to lift and control brine bags while dumping it into receptacle 4 feet high. Position will require visual demands of near acuity, depth perception, far acuity, color vision and accommodation. The position requires office, site and field work. For safety reasons hearing is required. While working in the field the employee may be exposed to extreme weather, extreme heat that is non-weather related, atmospheric conditions, vibrations, extreme cold that is non-weather related, wet and/or humid, hazards and confined/restricted working environments. Position required to sometimes perform confined space entry on the job. Employee must possess the ability to wear required respiratory protection devices, including not having facial hair that interferes with the facepiece-to-face seal.
Our Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
Our Accessibility Statement
Our Employee Benefits & Wellness Programs
We offer a comprehensive employee benefits package including Health Insurance Coverage, Various Retirement Planning Options (Ohio Public Employee Retirement System and Deferred Compensation Plans), Flexible Spending Accounts, Employee Assistance Program, Free Parking at our facilities, Corporate Discounts, and more! We also have an active Health & Wellness Program that promotes a life/work balance.
DISCLAIMER: The information outlined in this job description indicates the general nature and type of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not intended to provide a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities or competencies required of employees within this classification.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.