Boiler Operator

SUMMARY/OBJECTIVE

This position is responsible for operating, monitoring, and maintaining industrial boilers and related equipment to ensure safe, efficient steam and hot water generation for production operations. Day-to-day tasks include performing routine inspections, documenting operating conditions, adjusting controls, and responding to alarms or equipment irregularities. The Boiler Operator will assist with minor repairs and follow detailed procedures to complete maintenance tasks. This role requires strict adherence to safety regulations, proper use of tools and protective equipment, and effective communication with maintenance, production, and supervisory teams.

Essential Functions

• Ensure the safe and efficient operation of boiler systems and related equipment by performing preventive maintenance on engines, motors, pneumatic tools, conveyor systems, and production machinery. Follow technical diagrams, equipment manuals, manufacturer specifications, and engineering standards while troubleshooting and resolving equipment malfunctions.
• Conduct daily, weekly, and monthly inspections of boiler systems and associated equipment to verify proper operation, maintain compliance, and identify potential issues before they impact production.
• Monitor spare parts inventory levels and coordinate with vendors and suppliers to maintain adequate stock of critical boiler system components and repair materials.
• Diagnose equipment and mechanical issues by observing system performance, analyzing operating conditions, listening for unusual sounds, and utilizing precision measuring and testing instruments.
• Repair, replace, and install defective components using hoists, cranes, hand tools, and power tools while ensuring all work is completed safely and efficiently.
• Troubleshoot and repair a wide range of mechanical and operational issues involving production equipment, machinery, and facility systems to maintain optimal performance and reliability.
• Prepare and maintain accurate maintenance records, inspection reports, and work documentation using computerized maintenance systems and Microsoft Office applications, including Excel, Word, and Access.
• Minimize production downtime by executing effective preventive maintenance programs and responding quickly to equipment failures with timely troubleshooting and corrective actions.
• Fabricate and modify repair parts using machine shop equipment, including welders, brakes, mills, lathes, grinders, and other precision machining tools.
• Read, interpret, and work from mechanical drawings, blueprints, schematics, and technical documentation to perform maintenance, repairs, and system improvements.
• Maintain compliance with all applicable safety, environmental, and operational regulations related to boiler operation and facility maintenance.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives by identifying opportunities to enhance equipment reliability, efficiency, and overall plant performance.
• Perform daily water quality testing and maintain accurate records to ensure compliance with operational and regulatory standards.
• Conduct daily inspections and quality assurance checks of water treatment and filtration systems to verify proper performance and efficiency.
• Monitor and inspect boiler operations daily to ensure safe, reliable, and efficient system functionality.
• Perform daily inspections of boiler ignition systems and burner flames, verifying proper combustion and identifying potential operational issues.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand and walk. The employee is frequently required to reach with hands and arms. The employee is occasionally required to climb or balance. This position will require ability and mobility to move freely around the shop in extreme temperatures for prolonged periods of time. This position will require the ability to frequently lift up to 50 lbs. on a regular basis and easily maneuver in and around machinery and equipment.

Education and Experience

• Boiler Engineer License in the state of Maryland
• High School Degree or G.E.D.
• Five (5) or more years’ experience with preventative maintenance, troubleshooting and repair of production and manufacturing equipment required
• Experience with repair of packing equipment is preferred
• Prior maintenance experience in the food or meat industry preferred but not required

Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Proficiency in welding (TIG, MIG, and stick) and pipefitting for boiler and plant maintenance
• Basic electrical skills applicable to industrial equipment maintenance.
• Ability to read and work from schematics, mechanical drawings, blueprints, and detailed procedures
• Prior experience operating and maintaining industrial boilers or similar mechanical systems.
• Strong understanding of safety practices related to boilers, high-pressure systems, and confined work areas.
• Ability to work on-site in a manufacturing environment, including standing, lifting, and working around machinery.
• Effective communication skills and the ability to follow written and verbal instructions, logs, and procedures.
• Willingness to work assigned shifts, including possible evenings, weekends, or overtime, depending on production needs.
• Training or experience in lockout/tagout and safe work practices for high-pressure and confined-space environments
• Good verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to work early hours, overtime, weekends and split shifts as needed