Make and repair metal parts and machines

As a boilermaker, you fabricate and repair metal structures such as boilers, tanks, and pressure vessels that hold liquids or gases. You interpret design drawings, create patterns, cut and shape metal, and weld components to precise specifications. Your work powers industries—from generating steam for turbines to providing heat and energy in buildings, factories, ships, and submarines.

For further information:
Australian Manufacturing Workers' Union (SA)
Phone: 1300 732 698
Email: amwu@amwu.org.au
Website: www.amwu.org.au/sa

Manufacturing Skills Australia (National Office)
Phone: (02) 9955 5500
Freecall: 1800 358 458
Email: info@mskills.com.au
Website: www.mskills.org.au

It is recommended that you gain the available qualifications to get the best possible chance of employment.

TAFE SA offers Certificate II in Engineering Pathways and several short courses that may assist you gain employment in this occupation. Check the website for the full list of short courses.

In South Australia, most boilermakers work in the manufacturing, construction and mining industries. However, there is currently a high demand for these tradespeople in the ship and submarine building industry. Shortages for qualified boilermakers exist nationally, and there will be a high level of activity in those industries that employ boilermakers for several years yet.

If the pieces are very large or heavy, then cranes are used to assemble them. Using hammers, grinders and cutting torches, boilermakers remove any irregular edges so the metal pieces fit together properly. They then join them by welding, bolting or riveting. Boilermakers also align and attach other components such as water tubes and valves and then test the product for any leaks or other defects. And because vessels such as boilers generally have a long shelf life of up to 35 years, a boilermaker is involved in their maintenance and updates components such as boiler tubes to make them even more efficient. If this all sounds like a long and drawn out process, that's because it can be. Just ask former boilermaker, John 'It can be time consuming with a project sometimes taking weeks, but when you see the end product, it's very satisfying'.

If you enjoy working with your hands, are physically fit and able to visualise how an object should look from a drawing, you may have the aptitude for working as a boilermaker. An interest in and understanding of welding and working with metals in the area of structural engineering, is also important according to an experienced boilermaker. Most boilermakers train in both boilermaking and structural fabrication and so may also be involved in fitting, assembling and joining aluminium and steel in the construction or repair of towers, bridges and ships.