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Boiler Operator Trainee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Operator Trainee

Tuscaloosa, AL · On-site

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

... the boiler's continuous blow down line and daily performs a manual blow down. • Maintains the ... operating equipment for any abnormal conditions as it relates to the following: Pumps: noise ...

This includes adjusting controls, fuel inputs, and water levels to maintain optimal operating ... All listed for Boiler Technician Trainee plus: * Integrity * Self-Discipline * Reliability OUR CORE ...

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Boiler Operator Trainee information

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$12

$28

$42

How much do boiler operator trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for boiler operator trainee in the United States is $28.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.04 and $33.17 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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 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.

More about Boiler Operator Trainee jobs
What cities are hiring for Boiler Operator Trainee jobs? Cities with the most Boiler Operator Trainee job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Boiler Operator jobs? The most popular types of Boiler Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Boiler Operator Trainee jobs? States with the most job openings for Boiler Operator Trainee jobs include:
Infographic showing various Boiler Operator Trainee job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Temporary. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,966 per year, or $28.8 per hour.
Operator Trainee

Operator Trainee

Hunt

Tuscaloosa, AL • On-site

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Job Description
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
Safety:
• Follows all company safety policies and procedures.
• Participates in Emergency Drill Parties.
• Learns and/or knows Hunt Refining Company's safety policies and their use in all work activities (Example- LOTO).
• Learns and/or knows locations of fire monitors, extinguishers, hose reels, fire hydrants, emergency showers, eye wash station, self-contained breathing apparatus and any other safety related items.
• Learns and/or knows hazards associated with various process streams and chemicals used.
• Learns and/or knows hazards associated with various operating equipment in the area.
• Learns and/or knows how to access Safety Data Sheet Information.
• Responds to callouts and emergency situations.
• Helps keep the unit and equipment clean and hazard free.
• Learns to become proficient with all power failure procedures.
• Learns to become proficient with all field related emergency procedures.
Communication:
• Gives their relief a concise, accurate verbal summary of what happened on the shift and anything that may require attention, including MOC's and all applicable training. Asks adequate questions, if receiving shift turnover, to verify understanding before reporting for duty.
• Gives and receives verbal, written and electronic communication effectively and in a positive manner.
• Communicates clearly, precisely, and effectively over the radio.
• Checks email periodically throughout the shift.
• Reads and follows all applicable guidelines or procedures including MOC's and all applicable training.
• Reviews unit operation from previous shifts by reading logs and electronic communication.
• Communicates any process variations which affect other areas.
• Records daily activities and adjustments in the electronic log as required.
Procedures and Training:
• Stays up to date with online EHS training, refresher training on procedures, security training, etc.
• Learns and/or knows location of all written policies and procedures and Company documents that pertain to the area on the Company Intranet.
• Continually improves process and safety knowledge.
• Learns and/or knows equipment descriptions and their locations.
• Supports and participates as needed with OJT and any training in their Unit Processing area.
Operational Area:
• Responds to callouts and emergency situations.
• Learns and/or knows Unit trips, set points, and permissives to restart the after a safety system is activated.
• Assists the Console Operator and Unit Leader in troubleshooting activities.
• Minimizes hydrocarbon and excess water to water treatment plant.
• Seeks clarification when guidelines and procedures are unclear or in conflict with other instructions.
• Diligently works toward meeting guideline targets and refinery goals.
• Ensures unit and equipment are operated within specified limits.
• Performs any task requested by supervision.
• Writes work orders as needed and notifies the Unit Leader.
• Learns and/or understands the safe heater lighting steps and BMS panel operation and trips for all heaters. Provides feedback to the Console Operator when lighting the heaters in the field.
• Works to positively address any operating or personnel issues that arise.
• Must learn to isolate and prepare all field equipment for maintenance.
• Performs needed maintenance on shift as necessary.
• Obtains samples for the lab as necessary.
• Routinely samples process gases for H2S.
• Makes routine field adjustments to maintain process conditions, flows, levels, pressures, and temperatures.
• Takes inventory of lube oil and chemicals and orders as needed.
• Blows down level glasses or float chambers, to check a level.
• Checks the cooling tower screens and have cleaned as necessary.
• Adjusts the boiler's continuous blow down line and daily performs a manual blow down.
• Maintains the given injection rate of chemicals into the process streams.
• Monitors lab reports and sets and maintains chemical addition or proper treatment of boiler feed water and cooling tower water.
• Checks steam traps, steam tracing, and water for proper winterization.
• Check color on product streams as necessary.
• Monitors fin-fans for freeze protection in cold weather.
• Controls the level of water or hydrocarbon accumulation by periodic draining.
• Switches pumps, purges or switches compressors online without interruption of the process when necessary.
• Starts/stops or resets electric motors as necessary.
• Puts control valve on bypass as necessary.
• Performs heater activities such as using snuffing steam to purging heaters, lighting gas pilots and burners, adjusting primary and secondary air registers, adjusting dampers for fuel efficiency, using O2 analyzer to adjust for best efficiency, and inspecting heater boxes for flame impingement or possible tube damage.
• Checks DCS indications against local instruments to verify readings.
• Takes inventory of Nitrogen (N2) bottles and reports what is needed to Unit Leader (does not apply to C&R employees).
• Bypasses water softener system when necessary (does not apply to C&R or Oil Movement employees).
• Lines up city water and well water as necessary (does not apply to C&R or Oil Movement employees).
• Lights and adjusts steam to the flare and checks K/O drums for proper operation and drainage as necessary.
• Lines up charge tanks and product rundown to various product tanks and lines up slop lines if necessary.
• Establishes alternate cooling in the glycol circulation system for compressor cooling, as necessary (Does not apply to C&R employees).
• Must be able to troubleshoot all treated water fixed equipment.
• Checks operating equipment for any abnormal conditions as it relates to the following: Pumps: noise, temperature, discharge pressure, vibration, seal leaks, lubrication, seal flush, bearings; Compressors: noise, temperature, discharge pressure, vibration, lubrication, packing, and cooling system; Fans: noise, temperature, vibration, lubrication, bearing, and belts. Reports anything abnormal to Unit Leader.
Education and Qualifications
• High School diploma or equivalent.
• Capable of performing basic maintenance tasks.
• Must have the initiative to work toward refinery goals.
• Demonstrates ability to troubleshoot operations problems.
• Has a good working relationship with Unit Leaders, Console and Field Operators, Operations Specialists, Shift Superintendents Area Superintendents, and Engineers.
Certificates, Licenses, Registrations
• Valid Driver's License
• Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)
Computer Skills
• Demonstrates basic knowledge of Microsoft Office
• Proficiently utilizes and navigates software required to complete the daily, routine business of HRC