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Coal Boiler Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Boiler Maker - REPCON

Baton Rouge, LA

$24.75 - $30/hr

Attaches rigging or signals crane operator to lift components to specified position. Aligns ... coal hoppers and safety hatch to frame using wrenches. Performs minor maintenance or cleaning ...

Boiler Maker - REPCON

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site +1

$24.75 - $30/hr

Attaches rigging or signals crane operator to lift components to specified position. Aligns ... coal hoppers and safety hatch to frame using wrenches. Performs minor maintenance or cleaning ...

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Coal Boiler Operator information

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$12

$28

$42

How much do coal boiler operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for coal boiler operator 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.

How long does boiler operator training take?

Training for a coal boiler operator typically lasts several weeks to a few months, depending on the program and state requirements. It includes classroom instruction, hands-on experience, and often obtaining relevant certifications such as a boiler operator license. The duration ensures operators gain the necessary skills to safely and efficiently manage boiler systems.

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

To thrive as a Coal Boiler Operator, you need knowledge of boiler operations, mechanical systems, and safety procedures, often supported by a high school diploma and on-the-job training or a relevant certification. Familiarity with control systems, monitoring instrumentation, and maintenance tools is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are vital soft skills for identifying and addressing issues promptly. These skills ensure safe, efficient, and reliable operation of coal-fired boilers, minimizing downtime and hazards.

What qualifications do you need to work on boilers?

Coal boiler operators typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with specialized training or certification in boiler operation. Many states require a boiler operator license or certification, which involves passing an exam that covers safety, maintenance, and operational procedures. Experience with mechanical systems and knowledge of safety protocols are also important for this role.

What are some common challenges faced by Coal Boiler Operators on a daily basis?

Coal Boiler Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining optimal boiler performance while adhering to strict safety and environmental regulations. They must monitor equipment for signs of wear or malfunction and respond quickly to alarms or changes in operating conditions. Managing the manual handling of coal and ash, as well as maintaining accurate records of fuel consumption and emissions, are also key aspects of the role. Effective communication with maintenance teams and supervisors is essential for minimizing downtime and ensuring smooth operations.

What is the difference between Coal Boiler Operator vs Steam Plant Operator?

AspectCoal Boiler OperatorSteam Plant Operator
CertificationsTypically requires boiler operation licenses or certificationsRequires boiler operation licenses or certifications
Work EnvironmentIndustrial facilities, power plants, manufacturing plantsPower plants, industrial facilities, energy production sites
Industry UsageCommonly employed in coal-fired power plants and industrial settingsUsed in power generation, manufacturing, and energy sectors

Both Coal Boiler Operators and Steam Plant Operators require similar certifications and work in comparable industrial environments. While their roles may differ slightly in scope, they often overlap in power plant settings where steam and coal boiler operations are integral to energy production.

What are Coal Boiler Operators?

Coal Boiler Operators are skilled technicians responsible for operating and maintaining coal-fired boilers used to generate heat or electricity in industrial settings. They monitor boiler systems, adjust controls to maintain proper pressure and temperature, and ensure the safe and efficient combustion of coal. Regular inspections, routine maintenance, and troubleshooting are key parts of the job to prevent malfunctions and ensure compliance with safety and environmental regulations. Coal Boiler Operators also keep detailed records of equipment performance and follow strict procedures to minimize emissions and hazards.

What is the highest salary for a boiler operator?

The highest salaries for coal boiler operators can exceed $70,000 annually, especially for those with extensive experience, specialized skills, or working in high-demand industrial environments. Salaries vary based on location, certifications, and the complexity of the boiler systems operated.

Is a boiler operator a good career?

A boiler operator is a skilled tradesperson responsible for operating and maintaining boilers, often in industrial or power plant settings. The job offers stable employment, requires technical knowledge, and may involve shift work and safety training. Career prospects depend on industry demand and individual certifications.
More about Coal Boiler Operator jobs
Infographic showing various Coal Boiler Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,966 per year, or $28.8 per hour.
Boiler Maker - REPCON

Boiler Maker - REPCON

Repcon, Inc.

Baton Rouge, LA

$24.75 - $30/hr

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

About Us

We have earned a reputation for leading the industry in turnarounds, specialty welding, construction, pipe fabrication, and maintenance. Backed by a team of talented supervisors and craft professionals, we are prepared to tackle the toughest jobs for clients in the refining, chemical, petrochemical, renewables, and midstream industries.

Job Summary

Industrial Boiler Maker

Responsible for assembling, layout, installing, and maintaining pipe systems on steam, fluid or gas systems. The Pipe systems may include but not limited to: pipe, flanges, supports, valves, gauges, hangars, and angles. Also analyzes for defects, repairs boilers, tanks, vats and pressure vessels, boiler auxiliaries and ancillaries according to blueprints specifications, using power tools and hand tools.

Boiler Maker A - Typically 3 years and above documented field experience in chosen craft discipline with ability to read and interpret instructions and document, plan and perform work activities independently.

Boiler Maker Lead -Requires attainment of NCCER certifications written and/or practical. Provides leadership, instruction, and guidance to other craft workers in work crew, aiding the Foreman, while working in the capacity of a journeyman.

Responsibilities:

Locates and marks reference points for columns or plates on foundation, sing master straight edge, squares, transit and measuring tape and applying knowledge of geometry. Attaches rigging or signals crane operator to lift components to specified position. Aligns structures or plates sections to assemble boiler frame, tanks or vats sing plumb bobs, levels, wedges, dogs or turnbuckles. Hammers, flame-cuts, files and/or grind irregular edges of sections or structural parts to facilitate fitting edges together. Bolts or arc-welds structures and sections together. Positions drums and headers into supports or bolts or welds supports to frame. Aligns water tubes, connects and expands ends to drums and headers using tube expander. Bolts or welds casing sections, uptakes, stacks, baffles and such fabricated parts as chutes, air heaters, fan stands, feeding tube, cat walks, ladders, coal hoppers and safety hatch to frame using wrenches. Performs minor maintenance or cleaning activities with tools and equipment. Installs manholes, handholds, valves, gauges and feed water connection in drums to complete assembly of water tube boilers. Signals crane operator in lifting parts to specific positions. Assists in testing assembled vessels by pumping water or gas under specified pressure into vessels and observing instruments for evidence of leakage. Repairs boilers or tanks in field by unbolting or flame cutting defective sections or tubes, straightening plates using torch or jacks, installing new tubes, fitting and welding new sections and replacing worn lugs on bolts. May fasten and caulk sections of vessels, using pneumatic fasteners and caulking hammers. May line firebox with refractory brick and blocks. May fabricate parts such as, stacks, uptakes, and chutes to adapt boiler to premises in which it is installed. Flame cutting and knowledge of torch use. Responsible for observing and complying with all safety and project rules. Performs other duties as required.

Job Requirements:

Work within precise limits or standards of accuracy. Apply shop mathematics to solve problems. Plan work and select proper tools. Compare and see differences in the size, shape and form of lines, figures and objects. Visualize objects in three dimensions from plans and drawings. Make decisions based on measurable criteria. Work at heights without fear.

REPCON Required Qualifications:

  • Pass a REPCON Boiler Maker Assessment
  • Pass a REPCON Basic Rigging Assessment, or NCCER certified.
  • Current Basic Orientation Plus (Safety Council card) or within 3 months expiration.
  • Current TWIC Card
  • Have three (3) or more years' experience in your craft.
  • Demonstrated industrial construction/maintenance work history and experience.
  • Fully comprehend and accurately interpret blueprints, construction drawings, technical manuals, and manufacturers' manuals and instructions.
  • Possess applied knowledge of the Boiler Making processes for industrial piping, valves, flanges and boilers.
  • Good problem-solving abilities and reading comprehension.
  • Ability to work with others and serve as a team player, while being able to work independently with minimal supervision.
  • Good communication skills (speaking and actively listening) with co-workers and supervisors.

Physical Requirements

  • Significant and sustained periods of standing, walking, bending, squatting and lifting.
  • Must have good manual dexterity to perform precision adjustments of machinery parts and controls.
  • Will use arms and hands to signal, grab, hold, turn, push, and pull: objects, materials, controls and tools.
  • May be required to lift, carry and move up to 50lbs.
  • Will work at heights, climb ladders and stairways and work off of platforms. Will work at heights up to 300' utilizing proper fall protection.
  • Will use vision abilities to focus, see short and long distances, colors, depth perception and peripheral vision.
  • Must be capable of working outside in the elements including but not limited to the heat, cold, rain, snow and wind; and must be able to work for long period of times up to 12 hours a day.
  • Will be required to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) including but not limited to: hard hat, safety glasses/goggles, ear plugs/muffs, masks/respirators, safety vests, gloves and steel-toe boots.

We offer our employees a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package and are always looking for individuals with the talent and skills required to contribute to our continued growth and success.  Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled

Notice to prospective employees: There have been fraudulent postings and emails regarding job openings. EMCOR Group and its companies list open positions here. Please check our available positions to confirm that a post or email is genuine.EMCOR Group and its companies do not reach out to individuals to help with marketing or other similar services. If an individual is contacted for services outside of EMCOR's normal application process - it is probably fraudulent. 

#REPCON  #EMCOR

Equal Opportunity EmployerAs a leading provider of mechanical and electrical construction, facilities services, and energy infrastructure, we offer employees a competitive salary and benefits package and we are always looking for individuals with the talent and skills required to contribute to our continued growth and success. Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/DisabledAffirmative Action Policy

Please review our Affirmative Action Policy.

Notice to Prospective EmployeesNotice to prospective employees: There have been fraudulent postings and emails regarding job openings. EMCOR Group and its companies list open positions here. Please check our available positions to confirm that a post or email is genuine. EMCOR Group and its companies do not reach out to individuals to help with marketing or other similar services. If an individual is contacted for services outside of EMCOR's normal application process - it is probably fraudulent.Employment Type: FULL_TIME