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 Jul 17, 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 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 Ohio? The most popular types of Boiler Operator 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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $57,009 per year, or $27.4 per hour.
Boiler Operator - 2nd shift

Boiler Operator - 2nd shift

Abbott

Columbus, OH • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Abbott rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 136 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

156th of 528 rated manufacturers


Job description

Abbott is a global healthcare leader that helps people live more fully at all stages of life. Our portfolio of life-changing technologies spans the spectrum of healthcare, with leading businesses and products in diagnostics, medical devices, nutritionals and branded generic medicines. Our 115,000 colleagues serve people in more than 160 countries.JOB DESCRIPTION:

ABOUT ABBOTT

Abbott is a global healthcare leader, creating breakthrough science to improve people's health. We're always looking towards the future, anticipating changes in medical science and technology.

WORKING AT ABBOTT

At Abbott, you can do work that matters, grow, and learn, care for yourself and your family, be your true self, and live a full life. You'll also have access to:

  • Production areas that are clean, well-lit and temperature-controlled

  • Training and career development, with onboarding programs for new employees and tuition assistance

  • Financial security through competitive compensation, incentives and retirement plans

  • Health care and well-being programs including medical, dental, vision, wellness and occupational health programs, Medical Benefits start day 1

  • Vacation - 120 hours of accrued vacation (1st yr is prorated) + vacation buy program + 5 personal days + 10 paid holidays

  • Retiree Healthcare program

  • Robust 401(k) retirement savings with a generous company match

  • Tuition reimbursement, the Freedom 2 Save student debt program and FreeU education benefit - an affordable and convenient path to getting a bachelor's degree.

  • A company recognized as a great place to work in dozens of countries around the world and named one of the most admired companies in the world by Fortune.

  • A stablecompany with a record of strong financial performance and history of being actively involved in local communities

  • A company that is recognized as one of the best big companies to work for as well as the best place to work for diversity, working mothers, female executives, and scientists.

OVERVIEW

The person hired will be dedicated to learning the fundamentals of energy center operation and maintenance. The Trainee will be allocating appropriate time to classroom training for industrial maintenance and/or boiler operation, as well as on the job (OJT) training working at the Columbus Plant Energy Center (Powerhouse) with other licensed boiler operators. The Trainee will be dedicated to learning the fundamentals of energy center operation and maintenance. The Trainee will allocate appropriate time to classroom training for industrial maintenance and/or boiler operation, as well as on the job (OJT) training, working at the Powerhouse, with other Licensed boiler operators.

WHAT YOU'LL DO

  • Achieve fundamental understanding of Energy Center processes, including operation, maintenance, and safety

  • Achieve classroom learning to provide theoretical aptitude for Energy Center processes

  • Achieve boiler operating hours and training to take the Ohio Steam Engineers Exam to become a 3rd class Stationary Engineer

  • Operate all equipment in a safe and efficient manner, reporting accidents/incidents and adhering to all corporate/division/plantpolicies, procedures, and guidelines. Follow all LOTO procedures and other safety and quality procedures within the maintenance department.

  • Operate and maintain all Energy Center systems and machines

  • Maintain various hand tools and equipment, drills, winches, micrometers, calipers, torches, welders, lathe, mill, multimeter, etc.

  • Ensure compliance with applicable FDA (GMP), USDA, OSHA and Abbott regulations, policies, procedures, and guidelines

  • Responsible for learning all aspects of the Energy Center (Powerhouse) processes including:

    • Boiler and Steam System

    • Chilled Water System

    • Frigid Water System

    • Compressed Air System

    • Carbon Filtration System

    • Reverse Osmosis / Ingredient Water

    • Wastewater PH Neutralization System

  • Responsible for supporting these systems via:

    • Monitoring and responding to Process Deviations

    • Preventative and Demand Maintenance Execution

    • Lock Out Tag Out and Safety Compliance

    • Sanitization and organization

    • Compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP)

    • Capital Project Support and Execution

    • Development and adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOP)

    • Work within our Maximo CMMS (Computerized Maintenance Management System) to write and execute WOs, check out spare parts, review WOs and document completed work with accurate labor hours associated

SHIFT

2nd shift, 3p - 11p

Wednesday - Sunday

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • High School Diploma or GED, and a two-year technical degree or equivalent experience

  • Excellent skills in mathematics, written/verbal communication, self-motivation, interpersonal professional interactions, analytical troubleshooting, and ability to multitask

  • Must have Stationary Steam Engineer (SSE) license in Ohio

  • Possess knowledge and skills with complex processes or demonstrate the ability to learn highly technical complex processes

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Knowledge of applicable regulatory standards and requirements for infant formula and nutritional ingredients

  • Previous experiences with FDA, cGMP or experience working within a highly regulated industry

  • Prior job experience within a manufacturing plant environment

  • Experience with self-directing teams, lean manufacturing concepts and statistical process management

  • Trainee should demonstrate desire to learn and grow, seek out training opportunities and actively work to improve their skills

Apply Now

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire. Pre-Employment Inquiries and Citizenship | U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (eeoc.gov)

Learn more about our health and wellness benefits, which provide the security to help you and your family live full lives: www.abbottbenefits.com

*Employees can qualify for free medical coverage in our Health Investment Plan (HIP) PPO medical plan in the next calendar year.

Follow your career aspirations to Abbott for diverse opportunities with a company that can help you build your future and live your best life. Abbott is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a Military/Veteran friendly Employer, committed to employee diversity.

Connect with us at www.abbott.com, on Facebook at www.facebook.com/Abbott, and on Twitter @AbbottNews.

The base pay for this position is

$24.65 - $49.25/hour

In specific locations, the pay range may vary from the range posted.

JOB FAMILY:Facilities & MaintenanceDIVISION:ANSC Nutrition Supply ChainLOCATION:United States > Columbus : Columbus PlantADDITIONAL LOCATIONS:WORK SHIFT:Shift Premium (United States Of America)TRAVEL:NoMEDICAL SURVEILLANCE:NoSIGNIFICANT WORK ACTIVITIES:Continuous standing for prolonged periods (more than 2 consecutive hours in an 8 hour day)Abbott is an Equal Opportunity Employer of Minorities/Women/Individuals with Disabilities/Protected Veterans.EEO is the Law link - English: http://webstorage.abbott.com/common/External/EEO_English.pdfEEO is the Law link - Espanol: http://webstorage.abbott.com/common/External/EEO_Spanish.pdf

What Abbott employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom