Apprentice Boiler Technician / Helper

The Mid-Level Apprentice Boiler Technician / Helper supports daily operations, routine maintenance, and minor troubleshooting of boiler systems. Working under licensed boiler technicians and supervisors, this role combines hands-on work with technical development. The ideal candidate has foundational knowledge of steam generation systems and safety procedures and is progressing toward becoming a certified boiler technician or mechanic.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist in daily monitoring of boiler operations, including logging pressure, temperature, and water levels.

• Perform routine cleaning of boiler tubes, burners, and combustion chambers.

• Help in inspecting valves, fittings, and pressure parts for signs of leakage, corrosion, or damage.

• Support shutdown/start-up activities, including system venting, flushing, and isolation procedures.

• Aid in preparing tools, lifting gear, gaskets, insulation, and safety barriers for repair work.

• Collaborate with technicians during valve replacements, refractory patchwork, and soot blower servicing.

• Apply lockout/tagout procedures and support confined space entry protocols as directed.

• Perform lubrication of mechanical parts and assist in maintaining auxiliary systems (pumps, blowers, feedwater systems).

• Read and interpret simple piping diagrams and maintenance checklists.

• Maintain cleanliness of work areas, tools, and safety equipment storage.

Key Focus Areas:

1. Operational Assistance

   • Support experienced boiler operators in routine checks, data logging, and auxiliary system upkeep.

2. Hands-On Maintenance Support

   • Participate in mechanical disassembly/reassembly tasks under supervision during repairs or outages.

3. Technical Skill Building

   • Expand understanding of boiler subsystems: economizers, superheaters, feedwater lines, and condensate systems.

4. Tool Use & Safety Practice

   • Develop competence in safe use of mechanical tools, grinders, torque wrenches, and gauges.

5. Preventive Maintenance Support

   • Help execute basic PM activities such as leak checks, tightening fasteners, checking insulation integrity, etc.

Qualifications:

• ITI/Diploma in Mechanical Engineering, Boilermaking, or related technical trades

• 2–4 years of experience assisting with boiler operations or industrial mechanical maintenance

• Understanding of steam systems, heat exchange principles, and basic safety protocols

• Familiarity with hand and power tools commonly used in boiler/mechanical work

• Willingness to work at heights, in confined spaces, and during plant shutdowns or emergencies

Preferred Skills:

• Ability to read technical drawings, maintenance instructions, and SOPs

• Working knowledge of boiler auxiliaries like blowers, feedwater pumps, and condensate tanks

• Awareness of relevant safety procedures: hot work permits, PPE, confined space entry

• Basic communication and reporting skills

Certifications 

• Basic Boiler Attendant Certificate (if required by region)

• Hot Work / Confined Space Safety Training

• Lockout-Tagout (LOTO) Awareness