Boilermakers
Boilermakers construct, assemble, and repair large stationary steam boilers and related equipment in industrial settings. The work involves reading blueprints, aligning metal sections, and using hand and power tools to build boiler frame tanks and vats. Boilermakers typically work in manufacturing plants, power generation facilities, and other industrial locations.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against boilermakers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves measuring and cutting metal plates, fitting sections together using levels and plumb bobs, and welding or bolting components into place. Boilermakers consult blueprints regularly to ensure precise alignment and follow safety protocols when working with pressurized equipment. Tasks include testing assembled boilers, making adjustments, and performing maintenance on existing systems. Work may require climbing, bending, and working in confined spaces.
Who this work suits
Holland code RCI. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You tend to be detail-oriented and prefer concrete, hands-on work with clear standards and procedures. You're comfortable with technical drawings and mechanical systems, and you value job stability and the practical satisfaction of building tangible equipment that industrial operations depend on.
What it takes
Preparation: Some preparation (usually high school; some on-the-job training). Most people in this occupation hold a high school diploma.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Who is hiring
Openings right now
- BOILERMAKER SUPERVISOR I · United States Fleet Forces Command · Naval Shipyard, Portsmouth, Virginia · $41.69–$48.63
Openings are read from employers’ own career pages and public job boards and change daily. Search all openings (free account) to filter by distance, pay and how well you qualify.
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | $107,010 | $118,150 | $129,390 | 720 |
| Mississippi | $60,360 | $105,910 | $108,940 | 280 |
| New Mexico | $75,720 | $101,200 | $101,810 | 300 |
| Illinois | $89,520 | $99,730 | $103,430 | 110 |
| Michigan | $74,500 | $98,220 | $100,110 | — |
| Wisconsin | $61,770 | $97,590 | $100,550 | 170 |
| Minnesota | $81,420 | $96,190 | $105,430 | 140 |
| Washington | $71,500 | $95,200 | $117,040 | 190 |
| Indiana | $67,120 | $91,410 | $106,780 | 170 |
| Colorado | $86,360 | $89,350 | $94,930 | 40 |
| Idaho | $74,670 | $88,400 | $105,600 | 70 |
| Pennsylvania | $73,720 | $86,850 | $97,070 | 260 |
All 37 states
Certifications people in this field hold
- Industrial Boilermaker Maintenance Assessment — National Center for Construction Education and Research
- Boilermaker - Pressure Vessel — National Center for Construction Education and Research
- Industrial Boilermaker - Exchanger — National Center for Construction Education and Research
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against boilermakers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 47-2011.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.