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Boiler Plant Operator Jobs (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 ...

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How much do boiler plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for boiler plant operator in the United States is $31.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.72 and $34.86 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Boiler Plant Operator, and why are they important?

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.

Is being a boiler operator worth it?

Boiler plant operators are responsible for maintaining and operating boilers and related equipment, often requiring technical skills and certifications. The job offers steady employment, competitive wages, and opportunities for advancement, especially in industrial or power plant settings.

What is the highest salary for a boiler operator?

The highest salaries for boiler plant operators can exceed $80,000 annually, especially for those with extensive experience, certifications, and in high-demand industries or regions. Senior operators with specialized skills and supervisory responsibilities tend to earn the top wages in this field.

What are Boiler Plant Operators?

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 do boiler plant operators do?

Boiler plant operators are responsible for operating, monitoring, and maintaining boilers and related equipment to ensure a safe and efficient supply of steam or hot water. They perform routine inspections, adjust controls, and troubleshoot issues, often working with gauges, valves, and safety devices. Certification and knowledge of safety protocols are typically required in this role.

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.

How much do boiler operators make?

Boiler plant operators in general earn a median annual salary of around $60,000, with salaries typically ranging from $45,000 to $75,000 depending on experience, certifications, and location. In New Jersey, salaries tend to be slightly higher due to the cost of living and demand for skilled operators. Experience, certifications such as a boiler operator license, and working in industrial or commercial facilities can influence earnings.
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Boiler Plant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Boiler Plant Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Full Time, 33% Part Time, 17% Contract, and 17% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,451 per year, or $31.9 per hour.
BOILER PLANT OPERATOR

BOILER PLANT OPERATOR

U.S. Marine Corps

Quantico, VA • On-site, Remote

$36.49 - $42.63/hr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Locate problems and initiate immediate corrective action to maintain adequate steam or hot water production for user requirements in the entire system.

  • Assist in the operation and operational maintenance of multi-fuel power boilers and auxiliary equipment.

  • Utilize safety practices, rules, regulations, and procedures to maintain a safe and clean work environment.

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.
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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.
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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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