Boiler
A boiler is a key piece of heating equipment that heats water or creates steam for buildings and industrial uses. Think of it as a big metal container that safely heats water to provide warmth through radiators or other heating systems, or to supply hot water for buildings. Technicians who work with boilers need to understand different types like hot water boilers, steam boilers, and condensing boilers. It's similar to how a coffee maker heats water, but on a much larger scale and with more complex safety and efficiency requirements. When you see this term in resumes, it usually indicates experience with installation, maintenance, repair, or inspection of these heating systems.
Examples in Resumes
Performed monthly maintenance checks on industrial Boiler systems serving 200+ apartment units
Led Boiler and Steam Boiler installation projects for commercial buildings
Certified in Boiler repair and troubleshooting with 98% first-time fix rate
Typical job title: "Boiler Technicians"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Boiler Technicians
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Training Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you handle an emergency shutdown situation with a commercial boiler?
Expected Answer: A senior technician should explain the safety procedures, including proper shutdown sequence, checking for dangerous conditions, and coordinating with building management and emergency services if needed.
Q: Describe your experience managing a boiler replacement project.
Expected Answer: Should discuss project planning, coordinating with different trades, ensuring proper permits, managing timeline and budget, and ensuring minimal disruption to building operations.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What regular maintenance steps do you perform on a boiler system?
Expected Answer: Should describe routine checks like water treatment, checking safety controls, cleaning procedures, and testing pressure relief valves.
Q: How do you diagnose when a boiler isn't heating properly?
Expected Answer: Should explain systematic troubleshooting approach, checking common issues like water levels, pressure, fuel supply, and controls.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are the basic safety procedures when working with boilers?
Expected Answer: Should mention personal protective equipment, checking for proper lockout/tagout procedures, and basic safety checks before starting work.
Q: What are the main components of a typical boiler system?
Expected Answer: Should be able to identify basic parts like the burner, heat exchanger, controls, safety valves, and explain their basic functions.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic boiler maintenance and cleaning
- Safety procedures understanding
- Simple repairs under supervision
- Reading maintenance manuals
Mid (2-5 years)
- Independent troubleshooting and repairs
- Preventive maintenance planning
- Water treatment knowledge
- Understanding control systems
Senior (5+ years)
- Complex system diagnostics
- Project management
- Team leadership
- Emergency situation handling
Red Flags to Watch For
- No proper certifications or licenses
- Limited knowledge of safety procedures
- No experience with emergency protocols
- Unfamiliarity with local boiler codes and regulations
