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Boiler Operator Jobs in Milwaukee, WI (NOW HIRING)

Have a boiler operator license * Have a knowledge of HVAC systems and ability to make needed adjustments and general repairs. * Microsoft 365 Software experience. * Experience in healthcare ...

Maintenance Engineer

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$33 - $37/hr

Have a boiler operator license * Have a knowledge of HVAC systems and ability to make needed adjustments and general repairs. * Microsoft 365 Software experience. * Experience in healthcare ...

Perform miscellaneous maintenance as assigned by MAXIMO work orders and supervisors. * Assist the engine room and boiler room operators, as required. * Deliver post-chlorinated water and city water ...

Perform miscellaneous maintenance as assigned by MAXIMO work orders and supervisors. * Assist the engine room and boiler room operators, as required. * Deliver post-chlorinated water and city water ...

Perform miscellaneous maintenance as assigned by MAXIMO work orders and supervisors. * Assist the engine room and boiler room operators, as required. * Deliver post-chlorinated water and city water ...

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Boiler Operator information

See Milwaukee, WI salary details

$12

$28

$41

How much do boiler operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for boiler operator in Milwaukee, WI is $28.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.70 and $32.69 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a boiler operator?

Boiler Operators are skilled professionals responsible for operating, maintaining, and repairing boilers and other mechanical systems that provide heat, hot water, or steam for buildings and industrial processes. They monitor equipment, check gauges, perform routine inspections, and ensure systems operate safely and efficiently. Boiler Operators also troubleshoot issues, conduct preventive maintenance, and adhere to safety regulations to prevent accidents or equipment failures.

What do boiler operators do?

Boiler operators are responsible for the care and maintenance of the boilers found in homes, businesses, and large industrial spaces. Boiler operators perform tests and maintenance to ensure that the boilers run safely and without fail. They replace worn parts, like valves or filters. They test water level, pressure, and chemical levels, and perform routine safety checks.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a boiler operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Boiler Operator, you need a solid understanding of mechanical systems, thermodynamics, and safety protocols, typically supported by a high school diploma or GED and a boiler operator license. Proficiency in operating and maintaining boilers, using control systems, and familiarity with monitoring and diagnostic tools are essential. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help operators quickly identify and address issues. These skills and qualities are critical for ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable boiler operation in industrial and commercial settings.

What are some common challenges boiler operators face in maintaining safe and efficient operations?

Boiler Operators often encounter challenges such as responding quickly to system malfunctions, managing fluctuating demand, and ensuring compliance with strict safety and environmental regulations. Maintaining accurate records, performing routine inspections, and troubleshooting mechanical issues require attention to detail and strong problem-solving skills. Operators must also stay updated on evolving technologies and best practices to help prevent downtime and ensure optimal performance. Close collaboration with maintenance teams and engineers is essential for addressing complex issues and implementing preventive measures.

What is the difference between Boiler Operator vs HVAC Technician?

AspectBoiler OperatorHVAC Technician
CredentialsBoiler Operator license or certification, technical trainingHVAC certification, technical training
Work EnvironmentIndustrial plants, power plants, manufacturing facilitiesCommercial and residential buildings, HVAC service sites
Industry UsagePower generation, manufacturing, facilities managementBuilding maintenance, HVAC installation and repair

While both Boiler Operators and HVAC Technicians require technical training and certifications, Boiler Operators focus on operating and maintaining boilers in industrial settings, whereas HVAC Technicians specialize in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems in buildings. Their work environments and industry applications differ, but both roles are essential for facility operations and safety.

Is a boiler operator a good career?

A boiler operator is a skilled tradesperson responsible for operating and maintaining boilers and related equipment, often requiring certification and technical knowledge. The role offers stable employment opportunities in industries such as manufacturing, power generation, and building management, with potential for advancement and good wages. It typically involves shift work and adherence to safety protocols.

What are the most commonly searched types of Boiler Operator jobs in Milwaukee, WI?

The most popular types of Boiler Operator jobs in Milwaukee, WI are:

What cities near Milwaukee, WI are hiring for Boiler Operator jobs?

Cities near Milwaukee, WI with the most Boiler Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Boiler Operator job openings in Milwaukee, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 9% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $59,081 per year, or $28.4 per hour.

$26.50 - $29.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


University Of Wisconsin-Milwaukee rating

4.4

Company rating: 4.4 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

613th of 620 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Current Employees: If you are currently employed at any of the Universities of Wisconsin, log in to Workday to apply through the internal application process.Position Title:Central Plant Operator IJob Category:University StaffEmployment Type:RegularJob Profile:Heat/Cool Plant Operator IJob Duties:

Monitors, operates, adjusts, maintains, and repairs a variety of technical equipment including but not limited to high-pressure boilers and large tonnage chillers for the campus Central Heating and Cooling plant. Inspect, operate, and maintain heating and cooling equipment at campus satellite facilities.Perform all duties in accordance with policy and procedures while utilizing required personal protective equipment (PPE).

Employees in this position are designated as essential employees and may be required to report to work during emergencies or campus closures in accordance with University policy.

Employees are required to perform all essential job duties on-site, including at campus satellite locations. This position is not eligible for hybrid or remote work.

Key Job Responsibilities:

45% - Perform emergency, routine, and preventative maintenance under the direction of the central plant leadership or designee following proper procedures and practices.

  • Repair failed equipment as directed
  • In emergency situations be able to self-direct to repair failed equipment
  • If equipment is not able to be repaired during the current shift, complete and submit a maintenance report prior to shift end to the central plant leadership or designee.
  • Complete preventative maintenance work orders assigned
  • Communicate respectfully with all co-workers and customers to ensure smooth plant operations.
  • Document and communicate measures taken to repair equipment to central plant leadership or designee (for example: parts replaced, work done, etc.).
  • Inspect and test equipment to ensure proper functionality.

40% - Assist under the direction of the central plant leadership or designee in the operation of the main campus and off campus central plant boilers, chillers and auxiliary equipment following proper procedures and practices.

  • Assist in the startup and shut down of boilers and fuel changeovers and the startup and shut down of auxiliary equipment
  • Monitor and adjust control systems as directed by the central plant leadership or designee
  • Conduct inspection tours of assigned equipment on the half hour
  • Establish communications with preceding and succeeding shift operators to discuss problems and plant status to ensure a smooth transition between shifts
  • Record information on logs and data sheets per Heat Plant operating procedures and practices
  • Perform water testing and analysis and related activities using guidelines set forth in the Heat Plant procedures

10% - Address urgent or unplanned operations needs by completing tasks assigned by the central plant leadership or designee under close guidance.

  • Rebooting all systems and equipment
  • Monitor water flow to ensure operational needs are met
  • Janitorial duties
  • General maintenance

5% - Other duties as assigned

Department:

Facilities, Planning and Managementiscommitted to promoting respect and civility in the workplace. Our staff serves as role models by practicing exemplary behaviors when working with customers, fellow faculty and staff members, students, and visitors. The mission of the department is to provide a safe, sustainable, and accessible physical environment that supports learning, research, working, living, and recreation. The organization supports the academic and strategicobjectivesof the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee with commitment and pride in everything they do.

Compensation:

$26.50 - $29.50 an hour (Salarywill bedeterminedbyfinalist'sexperience, training, education, and equity-based factors.)

Required Qualifications:
  • Minimum of six months of maintenance experience (A combination of education, training, and coursework may be considered in lieu of experience.)

  • Ability to lift weights up to 50 pounds unassisted.

  • Ability to work at heights up to 35 feet while using fall protection or ladders.

  • Ability and willingness to wear required PPE according to UWM policies, procedures, and practices.

  • Ability to work in confined spaces.

  • Required to be able to work overtime and all shifts including weekends and holidays on a rotating basis.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Demonstrated experience managing boiler and/or chiller water treatment and water chemistry management programs.

  • Demonstrated experience with courteous customer service and professional communication within the team.

  • Evidence of previous work experience as a lead worker, team leader or supervisor over a staff charged with operations and maintenance of equipment.

  • Demonstrated experience with standard office computer programs.

  • Prior work experience in a central plant, process plant, or equivalent.

  • Possession of a Boiler Operator License administered by a recognized national certification organization or equivalent work experience.

  • Possession of a valid Wisconsin Driver's license (or other such valid operator's permit recognized by the Wisconsin Department of Transportation) and be able to meet or exceed the minimum requirements for driving on state business as detailed here:https://uwm.edu/risk-management/drivers/

How to Apply:

Interested applicantsare required toapply online and provide acover letter and resume addressing your professional level work experience as it relates to all required and preferred qualifications.

Note: Applicants must complete all required fields and attach all required documents prior tosubmittingthe online application.

In instances where the Search and Screen Committee is unable toascertainfrom the candidates' application materials whether they meet any of the qualifications, they will be evaluated as not meeting such qualifications.Additionaldocumentssubmittedaside from a cover letter and resumewill not be reviewed.

This position does not offer visa sponsorship. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States at the time of hire. Selected candidates willbe requiredto verify eligibility to work in the United States by completing the required I-9 form upon hire.

Finance & Administrative Affairsis required toconduct Post-Offer Pre-Employment screenings on the selected candidate for this role. Employment is contingent upon successfully passing the screening.

Finalist candidate(s) being considered for hire will berequiredto provide three professional/supervisor references through an external reference checking tool. References will not be contacted prior to candidates being notified

This is a continuous recruitment with an initial review date of 08/03/2026. To ensure consideration, applications must be submitted by 08/02/2026. Applications submitted after 08/03/2026 may not be reviewed.

Contact Information:

Questions regarding this position can be directed to Emily Jensen (eejensen@uwm.edu)

Reasonable Accommodations
Pursuant to university policy, UWM provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities who are employees or applicants for employment. Employment opportunities will not be denied because of the need to make reasonable accommodations for a qualified individual with a disability. If you need assistance or accommodation in applying because of a disability, please contact uwm-jobs@uwm.edu or 414-229-4463. This job announcement and other material on this site will be made available in alternate formats upon request to an individual with a disability.
Confidentiality of Applicant Materials
UWMis a State agency and subject to Wisconsin's Open Records Law.UWMwill not, however, reveal the identities of applicants who request confidentiality in writing except as may be required by Wisconsin's Open Records law. In certain circumstances, the identities of "final candidates" and/or the identity of the appointed applicant must be revealed upon request.
CBCand Reference Check Policy
Employment will require a criminal background check.UWMtakes the prevention of sexual misconduct seriously. As such, you and your references will be required to answer questions regarding any past findings of sexual violence and sexual harassment or any pending allegations of sexual violence or sexual harassment.
Annual Security and Fire Safety Report (Clery Act)
For theUWMAnnual Security and Fire Safety Reports (i.e., Clery Report), which includes statistics about reported crimes and information about campus security policies, seehttp://www.cleryact.uwm.edu/, or call UWM's Dean of Students Office, Student Union 345 at (414) 229-4632 for a paper copy.
Employment Authorization
In compliance with federal law, all persons at the time of their start date 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.

UW is an Equal Opportunity Employer
Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, pregnancy, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other bases protected by applicable federal or State law and UW System policies. We are committed to building a workforce that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills, and encourage all qualified individuals to apply.


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