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Boilermaker Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Supv Fuel Handling

Elwood, IL · On-site

$133K - $148K/yr

Associates/non-technical 4-year degree/completion or a relevant, skilled trades apprenticeship program (e.g., boilermaker, pipefitter, operating engineer) with 7 years of industry experience or 5 ...

Supv Fuel Handling

Joliet, IL · On-site

$133K - $148K/yr

Associates/non-technical 4-year degree/completion or a relevant, skilled trades apprenticeship program (e.g., boilermaker, pipefitter, operating engineer) with 7 years of industry experience or 5 ...

Supv Fuel Handling

Joliet, IL · On-site

$133K - $148K/yr

Associates/non-technical 4-year degree/completion or a relevant, skilled trades apprenticeship program (e.g., boilermaker, pipefitter, operating engineer) with 7 years of industry experience or 5 ...

Supv Fuel Handling

Elwood, IL · On-site

$133K - $148K/yr

Associates/non-technical 4-year degree/completion or a relevant, skilled trades apprenticeship program (e.g., boilermaker, pipefitter, operating engineer) with 7 years of industry experience or 5 ...

Supv Fuel Handling

Elwood, IL · On-site

$133K - $148K/yr

Associates/non-technical 4-year degree/completion or a relevant, skilled trades apprenticeship program (e.g., boilermaker, pipefitter, operating engineer) with 7 years of industry experience or 5 ...

Experience in boilermaker tasks is advantageous. Why Work Here? Join a company that values craftsmanship and precision. You will have the opportunity to work with cutting-edge materials and be part ...

Boilermaker information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$19

$27

$34

How much do boilermaker jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for boilermaker in Chicago, IL is $27.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.53 and $30.96 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a boilermaker?

Boilermakers are skilled tradespeople who assemble, install, maintain, and repair boilers, tanks, and closed vats that hold liquids and gases. They work in industries such as power generation, shipbuilding, and manufacturing, often handling heavy-duty metalwork and high-pressure systems. The job involves reading blueprints, using specialized tools, welding, and ensuring all equipment meets safety standards. Boilermakers often work in physically demanding environments and may need to travel to worksites for installation or repairs.

What do boilermakers do?

Boilermakers install, repair, and make boilers, closed vats, and other large containers that contain liquids, like oil, and gases. Boilermaking is physically demanding and sometimes hazardous, so proper precautions must be taken. Many Boilermaker jobs also include travel to work sites and require on-site living for a period of time. A Boilermaker’s day could include reading blueprints, casting metal pieces, bending them into shape, and welding or bolting metal pieces together to form the boiler or other containers. Other duties may include testing completed boilers, implementing efficiencies, and performing routine maintenance as necessary.

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

To thrive as a Boilermaker, you need strong mechanical aptitude, welding and metal fabrication skills, and typically a relevant apprenticeship or trade certification. Familiarity with technical tools such as welding machines, pipe cutters, and blueprint reading software is commonly required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and teamwork are crucial soft skills for safety and efficiency on the job. These skills ensure precise construction, safe operation, and effective collaboration in demanding industrial environments.

What are some common challenges boilermakers face on the job, and how can they be managed effectively?

Boilermakers often work in physically demanding environments, dealing with heavy materials, high temperatures, and confined spaces. One common challenge is maintaining safety while performing welding or assembly tasks at heights or in tight quarters. Effective management involves following strict safety protocols, using appropriate personal protective equipment, and maintaining clear communication with team members. Regular training and adherence to safety standards help minimize risks and ensure a productive work environment.

What is the difference between Boilermaker vs Pipefitter?

AspectBoilermakerPipefitter
CertificationsApprenticeship, OSHA safety trainingApprenticeship, OSHA safety training
Work EnvironmentFactories, power plants, shipyardsRefineries, industrial plants, construction sites
Industry UsageHeavy industry, manufacturingOil & gas, chemical processing
Job FocusAssembling, installing, and maintaining large metal structures and tanksInstalling, maintaining, and repairing piping systems

Both Boilermakers and Pipefitters work in industrial environments and require similar certifications. While Boilermakers focus on large metal structures and tanks, Pipefitters specialize in piping systems. Their roles often overlap in industrial settings, but their specific tasks and areas of expertise differ.

Is boilermaker a good career?

A boilermaker is a skilled tradesperson who fabricates, installs, and maintains boilers and other large metal containers, often working in industrial settings. The job typically requires physical strength, technical skills, and safety training, with opportunities for high wages and job stability in construction, manufacturing, and power generation industries.

What exactly does a boilermaker do?

A boilermaker constructs, installs, maintains, and repairs boilers, tanks, and other large vessels that hold liquids and gases. They work with welding, cutting, and fitting metal components, often in industrial settings, and typically need skills in blueprint reading and safety procedures. The job may require certifications such as welding licenses and adherence to safety standards due to the hazardous environment.

What are the most commonly searched types of Boilermaker jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Boilermaker jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Boilermaker jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Boilermaker jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Boilermaker jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Boilermaker jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Boilermaker jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Boilermaker job openings:

Infographic showing various Boilermaker job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $57,928 per year, or $27.9 per hour.

Mechanic / Boilermaker

Manhattan, IL • On-site

Manhattan Mechanical Services
Construction • 51 - 200 employees

$31.83 - $37.56/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Manhattan Mechanical Services / Job Description
Title: Mechanic
Reports to: Foreman
Employment Status: Non-Exempt (Hourly)
Rate: $31.83 - 37.56

Primary Function:
The primary duties of the A Mechanic are to perform mechanical work pertaining to equipment and piping systems and components. Must have familiarity with basic rigging operations. The A Mechanic will be expected to work closely with their team to ensure all work is completed with the highest degree of safety and quality.
Manhattan Mechanical Services is a merit shop contractor supporting a team working environment. As such, all employees will be required from time to time to perform other duties that they are qualified to perform, outside of this job description and their normal work function.
Work Environment:
The normal work environment for this position will be in an industrial facility, which has been determined to be a safety sensitive environment. You will experience exposure to outdoor weather conditions, wearing proper PPE is required for a variety of potential hazards. Every employee's performance could result in a significant incident affecting the health or safety of other employees, customers, customer's employees, the public, property, or the environment.
Roles & Responsibilities:
The roles and responsibilities of the A Mechanic may include but are not limited to the following:
  • Safe use of hand and power tools.
  • Capable of identifying potential hazards and mitigating the hazards.
  • Responsible for the proper disassembly and assembly of unit equipment.
  • Ensure proper permits have been obtained and the ability to read & understand all permits.
  • Assist with the building and installation of various types of pipe hangers and supports.
  • Willing to work as a team at all times to support the project.
  • Familiar with pipe cutting and beveling operations
  • Fully participate in health, safety, quality and environmental processes.

Experience:
  • Have 2 or more years of experience in industrial mechanical trades.
  • Strong experience in Boilermaker work

Skills:
  • Able to install piping and piping components.
  • Able to assist with performing Hydrostatic Testing
  • Able to build and install various types of pipe hangers and supports.
  • Able to cut and or bevel piping using oxyfuel, plasma, mechanical equipment.
  • Knowledge of rigging and rigging operations.

Education:
  • Must be willing to attend continued training applicable to job as deemed necessary by Manhattan Mechanical Services.
  • Must be able to attend one of the following MMS provided apprenticeship programs.
    • NCCER Boilermaker
    • NCCER Pipefitter

Physical:
  • Must comply with Manhattan Mechanical Services drug and alcohol policy.
  • Able to pass physical examination, pre-employment if necessary, as required by Manhattan Mechanical Services.
  • Must be able to climb ladders and stairways.
  • Must be able to carry 50 lbs. of tools and/or materials.
  • Must be able to work at elevated heights as well as in confined spaces (towers, vessels, excavations, etc.)
  • Must be able to work extended hours on your feet on uneven surfaces (dirt, concrete, asphalt, mud, gravel, etc.)
  • Must be clean-shaven and able to work while wearing a respirator and other personal protective equipment, when required.

Safety/Environmental:
  • Must be able to pass applicable site-specific training.
  • Must be able to read and understand safety instructions, signs, labels and permits in English.