Boilermakers

Education Required
High school education and on-the-job training.
Median Wage
$49,810/yr
The name "boilermaker" originates from the craft of making, installing, and repairing boilers, but that's not all that these tradesmen do.
About The Job

Boilermakers are responsible for more than just boilers. These workers install, maintain and repair a number of systems such as closed vats and other large vessels, air pollution equipment, blast furnaces, water treatment plants, smoke stacks, and hydroelectric power generation turbines.

What You'll Do
  • Inspect and test power lines and other equipment using special reading and testing devices.
  • Clean, tin, and splice corresponding conductors by twisting ends together or by joining ends with metal clamps and soldering connections.
  • Coordinate work assignment preparation and completion with other workers.
  • Cut and peel lead sheathing and insulation from defective or newly installed cables and conduits prior to splicing.
  • Cut trenches for laying underground cables, using trenchers and cable plows.
  • Attach cross-arms, insulators, and auxiliary equipment to poles prior to installing them.
  • Lay underground cable directly in trenches, or string it through conduit running through the trenches.
  • Pull up cable by hand from large reels mounted on trucks.
  • Replace or straighten damaged poles.
  • Trim trees that could be hazardous to the functioning of cables or wires.
  • Adhere to safety standards
  • Work with customers in the field.