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Boiler Plant Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

U.S. Marine Corps

BOILER PLANT OPERATOR

Quantico, VA · On-site +1

$36.49 - $42.63/hr

You will serve as "operator in charge" of the Central Heat Plant (i.e, the primary steam or hot water generating facility) including ancillary facilities, stand alone, and satellite boilers which may ...

Donohoe Companies Inc., The

Plant Operator

Fairfax, VA

$45 - $50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Responsibilities include boilers, chillers, cooling towers, pumps, generators, and diesel fuel ... Experience operating boilers and/or chiller plant systems in a commercial/industrial environment.

Complete Building Services

Plant Operator

Fairfax, VA

$45 - $50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Responsibilities include boilers, chillers, cooling towers, pumps, generators, and diesel fuel ... Experience operating boilers and/or chiller plant systems in a commercial/industrial environment.

The Donohoe Companies, Inc.

Plant Operator

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$45 - $50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Responsibilities include boilers, chillers, cooling towers, pumps, generators, and diesel fuel ... Experience operating boilers and/or chiller plant systems in a commercial/industrial environment.

Complete Building Services

Plant Operator

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$45 - $50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Responsibilities include boilers, chillers, cooling towers, pumps, generators, and diesel fuel ... Experience operating boilers and/or chiller plant systems in a commercial/industrial environment.

Virginia Tech

Plant Operator Lead

Blacksburg, VA · On-site

Plant Operator Lead Apply now Back to search results Job no: 537106 Work type: Staff Senior ... Operate coal, gas, oil fired boilers, and related plant equipment. Operate air pollution control ...

University of Virginia

Boiler Operator

Charlottesville, VA · On-site

$52K - $62K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The University of Virginia's Facilities Management - Energy & Utilities - Heat Plant team has an exciting opening for a Boiler Operator at our University Heat Plant. Boiler Operators are responsible ...

Alutiiq

Plant Control Specialist II

Blackstone, VA

The Central Plant Operator is responsible for monitoring, operating, and maintaining equipment within a central utility plant, including boilers, chillers, cooling towers, pumps, and other HVAC ...

Alutiiq

Plant Control Specialist II

Blackstone, VA

The Central Plant Operator is responsible for monitoring, operating, and maintaining equipment within a central utility plant, including boilers, chillers, cooling towers, pumps, and other HVAC ...

Baillie Lumber Co.

Boiler Operator

Waynesboro, VA · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Boiler Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation, maintenance, and monitoring of boiler systems and related equipment to support plant operations. Successful candidates are ...

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All JobsBoiler Plant Operator JobsBoiler Plant Operator Jobs in Virginia

Boiler Plant Operator information

See Virginia salary details

$17

$31

$53

How much do boiler plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for boiler plant operator in Virginia is $31.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.48 and $34.57 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a boiler plant operator?

Boiler Plant Operators are skilled professionals responsible for operating, maintaining, and monitoring boilers and related equipment in facilities such as power plants, factories, or large buildings. They ensure that boilers function safely and efficiently, adjusting controls, performing routine inspections, and troubleshooting issues as they arise. Operators must also adhere to safety protocols and may be involved in recording data, conducting water quality tests, and performing minor repairs. Their work is essential for providing heating, hot water, or steam for industrial processes or building systems.

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

To thrive as a Boiler Plant Operator, you need a solid understanding of mechanical systems, boiler maintenance, and safety standards, often supported by a high school diploma, technical training, and relevant licensure. Familiarity with control systems, pressure gauges, water treatment equipment, and computerized monitoring tools is typically required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and the capacity to work independently under pressure are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining safe, efficient plant operations and preventing costly equipment failures or safety incidents.

What are some typical challenges boiler plant operators face during their shifts?

Boiler Plant Operators often encounter challenges such as responding quickly to unexpected equipment malfunctions, maintaining optimal steam pressure, and adhering to strict safety protocols. Shifts may involve monitoring complex control systems and troubleshooting issues to prevent downtime. Operators must also balance routine maintenance with emergency repairs while collaborating closely with maintenance staff and engineers to ensure smooth plant operations. Adaptability and strong problem-solving skills are essential to manage these demands effectively.

What is the difference between Boiler Plant Operator vs Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Technician?

AspectBoiler Plant OperatorHVAC Technician
CredentialsTypically requires boiler operator licenses or certificationsRequires HVAC certifications, such as EPA 608
Work EnvironmentIndustrial plants, power plants, or large facilities with boilersCommercial and residential buildings, HVAC service sites
Industry UsageCommonly employed in energy, manufacturing, and utility sectorsFound across construction, maintenance, and building management
Job FocusOperate and maintain boilers and related systemsInstall, repair, and maintain heating, cooling, and ventilation systems

While both roles involve maintaining heating systems, Boiler Plant Operators focus on operating large-scale boilers in industrial settings, requiring specific licenses. HVAC Technicians work on a broader range of heating and cooling systems in commercial and residential environments, often holding different certifications. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

How much do boiler plant operators make in the US?

Boiler plant operators in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $60,000, with wages ranging from approximately $40,000 to $85,000 depending on experience, location, and certifications. They often work in industrial, commercial, or power plant environments and may need to obtain state licensing or certifications to operate boilers safely.

How much do boiler plant operators make?

Boiler plant operators in Michigan typically earn an average annual salary of around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, certifications, and the complexity of the plant. Salaries can vary based on the industry, location, and whether the role requires shift work or specialized skills such as knowledge of control systems or safety protocols.

Is a boiler plant operator a good career?

A boiler plant operator is a skilled tradesperson responsible for maintaining and operating boilers and related equipment, often requiring technical training and certifications. The job offers stable employment, competitive wages, and opportunities for advancement, especially in industries like manufacturing, power generation, and facilities management.

What are popular job titles related to Boiler Plant Operator jobs in Virginia?

For Boiler Plant Operator jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Boiler Plant Operator jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Boiler Plant Operator jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Boiler Plant Operator jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Boiler Plant Operator job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Boiler Plant Operator jobs in VA?

For Boiler Plant Operator jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Boiler Plant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Boiler Plant Operator job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,881 per year, or $31.7 per hour.

BOILER PLANT OPERATOR

U.S. Marine Corps

Quantico, VA • On-site, Remote

$36.49 - $42.63/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

Summary
This is a public notice flyer to notify interested applicants of anticipated vacancies. Applications will not be accepted through this flyer. Interested applicants must follow the directions in the "How to Apply" section of this flyer to be considered. There may or may not be actual vacancies filled from this flyer. Notice of Result letters will not be sent to applicants who respond to this flyer.
Learn more about this agency
Duties
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  • You will locate problems and initiate immediate corrective action to maintain adequate steam or hot water production for user requirements in the entire system.
  • You will assist in the operation and operational maintenance of multi-fuel power boilers and auxiliary equipment.
  • You will utilize safety practices, rules, regulations, and procedures to maintain a safe and clean work environment.
  • You will serve as "operator in charge" of the Central Heat Plant (i.e, the primary steam or hot water generating facility) including ancillary facilities, stand alone, and satellite boilers which may be geographically dispersed.

Requirements
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Conditions of employment
  • Must be a US Citizen.
  • Must be determined suitable for federal employment.
  • Must participate in the direct deposit pay program.
  • New employees to the Department of the Navy will be required to successfully pass the E-Verify employment verification check. To learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities, visit e-verify.gov
  • Within the Department of Defense (DoD), the appointment of retired military members within 180 days immediately following retirement date to a civilian position is subject to the provisions of 5 United States Code 3326.
  • Males born after 12-31-59 must be registered for Selective Service.
  • This position requires rotating shift work.
  • This position is considered Key/Emergency-Essential. You will be required to provide immediate and continuing support to ensure the success of combat operations or the availability of combat-essential systems.
  • You will be required to successfully complete a pre-appointment physical examination.
  • You will be required to possess and maintain a current valid United States driver's license.
  • You will be required to wear personal protective equipment such as helmets, gloves, coveralls, glasses, goggles, respirators and safety shoes continuously for the duration of the work shift.

Qualifications
In order to qualify for this position, your resume must provide sufficient experience and/or education, knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the duties of the specific position for which you are being considered. Your resume is the key means we have for evaluating your skills, knowledge, and abilities as they relate to this position. Therefore, we encourage you to be clear and specific when describing your experience.
Although a specific length of time and experience is not required for most trade and labor occupations, you must show through experience and training that you possess the quality level of knowledge and skill necessary to perform the duties of the position at the level for which you are applying. Qualification requirements emphasis is on quality of experience, not necessarily the length of time.
Your qualifications will be evaluated on the basis of your level of knowledge, skills, abilities and/or competencies in the job elements and screen out listed below. This job has a screen-out element which will be used to determine minimum eligibility for this job. Applicants who do not receive a minimum of two points on the screen-out element(s) will be found ineligible. The Screen-out Element for this position is: the ability to perform common tasks including operating power boilers that produce steam or high temperature hot water, and to perform preventive maintenance and various operational repairs on them.
Additional qualification information can be found from the following Office of Personnel Management website:https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/classifying-federal-wage-system-positions/standards/5400/fws5402.pdf
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., professional, philanthropic, religious, spiritual, community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment.
Education
Additional information
This position is covered by the Department of Defense Priority Placement Program.
This position is subject to work an uncommon tour, including nights, weekends, and holidays to meet mission requirements. Overtime or night differential pay and/or unusual duty hours may be required.
Certain incentives (such as Recruitment, Relocation or Student Loan Repayment) may be authorized to eligible selectees.
No PCS costs will be paid.
Several vacancies may be filled.
A tentative offer of employment will be rescinded if the selectee fails to meet the pre-employment requirements, including failure to report to any of the scheduled appointments.
Federal annuitant information: The selection of an annuitant is subject to the Department of Defense and Department of the Navy policy on the employment of annuitants. Policy information may be found at: http://www.secnav.navy.mil/donhr/Documents/CivilianJobs/FedCivAnnuitants.pdf.
Veteran's preference does not apply when selecting individuals under this specific hiring authority. However, if you claim veteran's preference, you will be required to submit supporting documentation with your application as described in the Required Documents section below.
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Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
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A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Review our benefits
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.

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