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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 Jul 17, 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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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 20% Locum Tenens, 72% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,181 per year, or $28.5 per hour.
HVAC Technician II (Monday to Friday 6:30am to 3:30pm)

HVAC Technician II (Monday to Friday 6:30am to 3:30pm)

Glidewell Dental

Irvine, CA

$26.52 - $35.36/hr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

Glidewell Laboratories rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 23 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Essential Functions:
  • Inspects, repairs, modifies and installs HVAC equipment including but not limited to refrigeration and air conditioning compressors, receivers, condensers, chillers, water cooling towers, forced air converter units, pumps, automatic and hand valves, expansion valves and capillary tubes.
  • Performs basic electrical maintenance work in repairing, installing, and altering HVAC equipment, components, timers, motors, and wiring systems; connects motors to control panels.
  • Repairs or replaces defective parts in units, equipment and equipment controls, including thermostats, automatic switches, fan controls, log switches, damper motors, louvers, relays, filters, and pressure controls.
  • Provides project support for any new construction and facility tenant improvements.
  • Routinely surveys and evaluates necessary maintenance to the facility HVAC systems.
  • Ensures maintenance work orders are completed on time while adhering to operational standards.
  • Conducts routine preventive maintenance inspections of refrigeration units, isolated heating and ventilating units, including boilers, gas and electrically operated air-conditioning equipment; performs necessary adjustments, servicing, or repairs to HVAC equipment.
  • Lubricates and packs heating, ventilation, refrigeration, and air-conditioning motors, pumps, fans, and other equipment.
  • Performs installation and calibration tasks such as installing copper tubing, repairing pipes and tubing, and insulating refrigeration and air conditioning pipes.
  • Installs, rebuilds, replaces, or repairs fans, motors, thermostats, fuses, filters, bearings, valves, controls, gaskets and other equipment as necessary.
  • Operates various hand and power tools, welder, torch, vacuum pump; tests equipment.
  • Maintains equipment in safe and effective working condition; maintain parts and tool inventory.
  • Maintains inventory of parts to ensure sufficient inventory to meet department needs and initiatives to make field repair.
  • Complies with all applicable regulatory agencies including but not limited to OSHA, DOH, EPA, Fire Department, city audits, and Health Department.
  • Assists in training entry-level employees in HVAC repairs and diagnoses.
  • Travels to other US facilities to oversee HVAC initiatives.
  • Performs other related duties and projects as business needs require at direction of management.
Education and Experience:
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Minimum three (3) years' experience in commercial HVAC or relevant experience.
  • Previous experience in facilities maintenance, preferred.
  • Certification or education from a two or four year program, preferred.
Special Requirements/Certification:
  • Valid California driver's license and acceptable driving record required.
  • Formal HVAC technician training or license, required.
  • Universal EPA Certification, required.

Pay Range: $26.52 - $35.36/hr.

Employment Type: full-time

What Glidewell Laboratories employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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About Glidewell

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Glidewell, based in Newport Beach, California, is an Industry Leading Provider of high quality, low cost dental lab products and services. Celebrating its 50 year Anniversary in 2020, Glidewell is more than an Industry Leading Dental lab. We are also a global education provider dedicated to developing Innovative Dental Technologies and Promoting Dental industry growth. The continued growth and success of our company allows us to give our employees the opportunity to build meaningful, engaging careers. Having a career at Glidewell means you will be working alongside our highly talented dental industry experts, with an opportunity to build a career path that matches your interests, Complements your strengths, and meets your professional goals. Exciting job opportunities exist across all areas of our vertically integrated company for experienced professionals and those looking for an entry level position.

Industry

Medical equipment and supplies manufacturing

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Newport Beach, CA, US

Year founded

1970

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