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Entry Level Boiler Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Entry Level Boiler Operator information

See California salary details

$12

$28

$41

How much do entry level boiler operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level boiler operator in California is $28.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.70 and $32.74 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What do I need to become a boiler operator?

To become an entry-level boiler operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and some employers require completion of a training program or apprenticeship. Certification or licensing may be required depending on state or local regulations, and knowledge of safety procedures, mechanical systems, and control equipment is essential.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Boiler Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Boiler Operator, you need a basic understanding of mechanical systems, knowledge of safety protocols, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with boiler control systems, maintenance tools, and safety certifications such as OSHA are commonly required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong communication skills help operators effectively monitor equipment and respond to issues. These skills and qualifications are crucial to ensure safe, efficient boiler operation and prevent costly or dangerous malfunctions.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level boiler operators, and how can they be addressed?

Entry level boiler operators often encounter challenges such as learning to monitor complex systems, understanding safety regulations, and responding quickly to equipment malfunctions. It can be overwhelming to manage alarms, conduct inspections, and perform routine maintenance while ensuring compliance with strict safety standards. These challenges can be addressed by seeking mentorship from experienced operators, participating in company-provided training, and regularly reviewing safety procedures. Open communication with team members and supervisors also helps new operators gain confidence and troubleshoot issues effectively.

Is being a boiler operator worth it?

A boiler operator is responsible for operating and maintaining boilers in industrial or commercial settings, often requiring certifications and technical skills. The job offers steady employment, a good salary, and opportunities for advancement, but it also involves working in potentially hazardous environments and on irregular schedules.

What is the difference between Entry Level Boiler Operator vs Apprentice Boiler Technician?

AspectEntry Level Boiler OperatorApprentice Boiler Technician
CertificationsTypically requires high school diploma and boiler operator licenseOften in training, may hold basic certifications or none
Work EnvironmentIndustrial plants, power plants, manufacturing facilitiesTraining sites, industrial plants, often under supervision
Job FocusMonitoring and maintaining boiler operations, safety checksLearning technical skills, assisting with boiler maintenance

The main difference is that an Entry Level Boiler Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining boilers with some certification, while an Apprentice Boiler Technician is in training, gaining skills under supervision. Both roles work in similar environments, but the operator is more autonomous, whereas the apprentice is learning the trade.

What are entry level boiler operators?

Entry level boiler operators are professionals responsible for operating and maintaining boilers and related equipment in facilities such as factories, schools, or hospitals. Their duties typically include monitoring gauges, adjusting controls, ensuring safety protocols, and performing routine maintenance or minor repairs. Entry-level positions are suited for individuals with basic mechanical skills and may require a high school diploma, on-the-job training, or a boiler operator certification. These roles provide a foundation for advancing to more senior engineering or maintenance positions within the industry.

Is it hard to become a boiler operator?

Becoming an entry-level boiler operator typically requires completing a high school diploma or equivalent, gaining on-the-job training, and obtaining relevant certifications such as a boiler operator license. The job involves understanding complex systems and safety protocols, but with proper training and experience, it is accessible to many candidates.

Are boiler operator jobs in demand?

Boiler operator jobs are in steady demand in industries such as manufacturing, energy, and facilities management, especially for those with proper certifications and experience. The need for skilled operators to maintain and monitor boiler systems ensures ongoing employment opportunities in this field.
What are the most commonly searched types of Boiler Operator jobs in California? The most popular types of Boiler Operator jobs in California are:
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What job categories do people searching Entry Level Boiler Operator jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Boiler Operator jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Boiler Operator jobs? Cities in California with the most Entry Level Boiler Operator job openings:
Entry Level Boiler Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Boiler Operator job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 18% Locum Tenens, 73% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,181 per year, or $28.5 per hour.

Wastewater Plant Maintenance Operator IV (May underfill I, II, III)

City of Salt Lake City

Newberry Springs, CA • On-site

$21.57 - $28.35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Position Title:

Wastewater Plant Maintenance Operator IV (May underfill I, II, III)

Bargaining Unit:

AFSCME

Job Description:

Incumbent performs journey-level skilled duties required in the operation, maintenance and repair of wastewater plant buildings and equipment. Reporting to the Field Supervisor or Wastewater Plant Maintenance Coordinator, directs and determines the major maintenance schedules and operational needs of stationary building equipment such as boilers, compressors and large pumps. Lead person assignments are routinely required of this position.

Position Salary Range:

Wastewater Plant Maintenance Operator I: $21.57- $28.35

Wastewater Plant Maintenance Operator II: $23.57- $31.04

Wastewater Plant Maintenance Operator III: $27.35- $35.99

Wastewater Plant Maintenance Operator IV: $29.08- $38.26

This position is eligible for full city benefits, including:

  • Health Insurance
  • Dental, Vision and Life Insurance
  • Paid vacation and personal leave
  • Six to Twelve weeks of paid parental leave from day 1 of employment
  • Retirement contributions toward a pension plan and/or 401(k)
  • A robust Employee Assistance Plan (EAP)
  • Up to $4,000 tuition reimbursement annually
  • Discounted supplemental benefits like pet insurance and legal services

IMPORTANT: Early application submittal is encouraged. This position will remain open until filled and may close at any time without notice.

Key Responsibilities:

Wastewater Plant Maintenance Operator I:

  • Under supervision, does entry-level to routine semi-skilled level work in the inspection and servicing of pumps, motors, compressors, lifts, hoists and related equipment.
  • Assists with installing and removing equipment, repairing broken parts and performing preventive maintenance. Makes minor repairs and may complete work orders.
  • Operates equipment and hand or power tools. Performs preparation and cleanup tasks.
  • Performs grounds maintenance; may adjust and repair sprinkling systems Washes walls, paints, cleans, and may make deliveries and pick up supplies from vendors.
  • Under supervision, may begin training on heavy equipment, including loaders and 10-wheel dump trucks.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Wastewater Plant Maintenance Operator II:

  • Inspects and services equipment such as boilers, compressors, lifts, hoists, chillers, steam systems, pumps, air conditioners, swamp coolers, electrical generators, fans, motors, digesters, rag pickers and related equipment.
  • Performs routine maintenance and repairs under supervision or according to work orders, maintenance schedules or as needed. May work alone or as part of a group. Reads blueprints.
  • Reads and interprets performance charts, control panels and graphs. Under supervision, makes operational adjustments. Works with energy conservation and recovery program. Operates valves and controls. Assists with plant security.
  • Repairs broken equipment such as rag pickers, trunions, digester parts and clarifiers. May train other employees in the operation and repair of plant equipment.
  • May operate heavy equipment including loaders and 10-wheel dump trucks.
  • Lubricates machinery and, under supervision, assists or performs new or replacement installations. May assist with major projects under supervision or complete pre-assigned work orders with responsibility for accounting of time and materials.
  • Completes work records and work orders. May suggest inventory replacement or original accesses.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Wastewater Plant Maintenance Operator III:

  • Performs journey-level skilled inspection and servicing of equipment such as boilers, compressors, lifts, hoists, chillers, steam systems, pumps, air conditioners, swamp coolers, electrical generators, fans, motors, digesters, rag pickers and related equipment.
  • Provides expertise and instruction for preventive and specialized maintenance. Performs most maintenance and repairs without supervision, according to work orders, maintenance schedules or as needed. May work alone or as part of a group. Reads and interprets blueprints. Completes work records and work orders. Suggests inventory replacement or original accesses. Trains other employees.
  • Reads and interprets performance charts, control panels and graphs. Makes operational adjustments. Works with energy conservation and recovery program. Operates valves and controls. Assists with plant security.
  • Repairs broken equipment such as rag pickers, trunions, digester parts and clarifiers.
  • May operate heavy equipment including loaders and 10-wheel dump trucks.
  • Lubricates machinery and performs new or replacement installations. Assists with major projects and completes pre-assigned work orders with responsibility for accounting of time and materials.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Wastewater Plant Maintenance Operator IV:

  • Helps determine the need, frequency and schedule of major building and process equipment maintenance and performs in according to plant operations, emergency needs and availability of parts and supplies. Assists in the scheduling and supervision of all general maintenance.
  • Provides expertise and "hands on" instruction for preventive and specialized maintenance and repairs. Performs many maintenance tasks without direct assistance. Orders parts and supplies through departmental channels. Trains other employees.
  • Performs major adjustments to various types of equipment. May repair broken equipment such as rag pickers, trunnions, digester parts and clarifiers. May train other employees in the operation and repair of plant equipment.
  • Prepares training and instructional material including operations and maintenance manuals for plant equipment. Works with designers, contractors and consultants to improve maintenance and provide those maintenance skills after warranty periods.
  • May work with stockroom to assist vendors for maximum cost benefits to plant and to lessen operational interruptions.
  • May operate heavy equipment including loaders, 10-wheel dump truck, and crane.
  • Responds to emergencies and suggests changes in plant procedures.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

Wastewater Plant Maintenance Operator I:

  • High school diploma or GED equivalent.
  • Ability to read, write and follow written and oral instructions.
  • Some knowledge of methods, tools and materials used in general maintenance and repair work.
  • Ability to operate various hand and power tools.
  • Possession of valid state driver's license or Utah driving privilege card.
  • Ability to wear respiratory protection devices.

Wastewater Plant Maintenance Operator II:

  • Satisfactory completion of the Salt Lake City Corporation training for a Wastewater Plant Maintenance Operator I. Minimum of two years as a Wastewater Maintenance Worker or similar occupation may be substituted for the Operator Level I training.
  • Proven ability to use hand and power tools for repair of machinery.
  • Possession of a valid driver's license or driving privilege card.
  • Ability to work well with co-workers, supervisors and the general public under varying circumstances.
  • Ability to wear respiratory protection devices.

Wastewater Plant Maintenance Operator III:

  • High school diploma or GED equivalent plus three years' paid experience as a plant maintenance operator installing, repairing and maintaining a variety of industrial or process plant equipment at either a wastewater treatment or water treatment facility, a chemical process plant, or other industrial plant facility.
  • Proven ability to read and interpret blueprints, circuit diagrams and various manuals and maintenance schedules.
  • Possession of a valid state driver's license or Utah driving privilege card.
  • Ability to wear respiratory protection devices.

Wastewater Plant Maintenance Operator IV:

  • High school diploma or GED equivalent plus four year's paid experience as a plant maintenance operator installing, repairing and maintaining a variety of industrial or process plant equipment at either a wastewater treatment or water treatment facility, a chemical process plant, or other industrial facility; or one year as a Salt Lake City Public Utilities Department Wastewater Plant Maintenance Worker III.
  • Ability to supervise as a lead worker.
  • Proven ability to operate, maintain and repair equipment such as boilers, chillers, conveyors, speed reducers, pumps, compressors, motors and similar equipment and to present and prepare manuals for their operation and maintenance. Ability to read and interpret blueprints.
  • Proven ability to use hand and power tools for repair of machinery.
  • Possession of a valid state driver's license or Utah driving privilege card.
  • Ability to work well with co-workers, supervisors and the general public under varying circumstances.
  • Ability to train and teach other plant personnel.
  • Ability to wear respiratory protection devices.

DESIRED QUALIFICATION:

  • Possession of a Class A or B Utah Commercial Driver's License.

CAREER LADDER:

  • Upon satisfactory completion of training as a WW Plant Maintenance Operator I, incumbent may be advanced to WW Plant Maintenance Operator II based upon the supervisor/manager recommendation, review by Human Resources, and Department Director approval.
  • After one year of successful performance as Wastewater Plant Maintenance Operator II, incumbent may be advanced to Wastewater Plant Maintenance Operator III based on the supervisor/manager recommendation, review by Human Resources, and Department Director approval. This is based on the need for a Level III worker.
  • After one year of successful performance, during which incumbent demonstrates ability to lead and facilitate team members in the discharge of duties, incumbent may be advanced to WW Plant Maintenance Operator IV based upon the supervisor/manager recommendation, review by Human Resources, and Department Director approval. This is based on need for a Level IV worker.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

  • Moderately heavy physical activity. Required to stand, walk or sit uncomfortably for extended periods; push, pull or lift medium to heavy weights. Exposure to confined spaces, high voltage equipment, dust, grease, heat, cold, dampness, cuts, scrapes, extremely disagreeable odors, noise, heights (tops of holding tanks, basins, vaults, etc.), unknown levels of pathogenic bacteria, and other environmental aspects which may be considered unfavorable or disagreeable. Significant potential exists for exposure to hazardous chemicals and gases. Employees are to follow prescribed safety and hygienic procedures.
  • Low exposure to stress as a result of human behavior and the demands of the position.
  • Subject to emergency call on a 24hour, sevendayweek basis.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by persons assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities and skills required of personnel so classified.

All requirements are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities.

POSITION TYPE

Full-Time

POSITION SALARY RANGE

Wastewater Plant Maintenance Operator I: $21.57- $28.35

Wastewater Plant Maintenance Operator II: $23.57- $31.04

Wastewater Plant Maintenance Operator III: $27.35- $35.99

Wastewater Plant Maintenance Operator IV: $29.08- $38.26

DEPARTMENT

Public Utilities

Full Time/Part Time:

Full time

Scheduled Hours:

40

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