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Boilermaker
Boilermakers build or repair containers made with steel plate and pipes which are used in many industries ranging from boilers for steam engines, vats, tanks and pressure vessels like the ones used at power stations and petrochemical plants.
In some ways they are like specialist welders and must be very skilled and responsible when they work. This is because the containers they make or repair are used under high pressure or may contain chemicals or poisonous gases, so any fault in the seams and joints can cause accidents and serious injury.
A boilermaker must also be able to read and work from plans and be very accurate. Besides making sure that the container is built properly the boilermaker must also make sure it is installed on site properly. It is the Boilermakers' duty to attach rigging and to signal crane operators to lift heavy frame and plate sections and other parts into place.Once installed the boilermaker has to make sure that everything is working properly and that there are no cracks or leaks in the system.
The work can be noisy, hot and dangerous; it can also mean working in small cramped spaces, near big heavy machinery and high off the ground. It is challenging work for someone who enjoys working with their hands and being able to solve problems. The work can also be quite varied and boilermakers can work in factories; making the containers or doing repairs or at power stations, oil rigs, petrol refineries, at the mines and in the shipbuilding industry.
Other careers that are similar to Boilermakers are sheet metalworkers, cabinetmakers, Welders,
It is possible to start studying and training from the age of 16 by applying to a FET college to do a NCV (National Certificate Vocational) course instead of an academic matric. Otherwise you can start after school at a FET college, Technical training centre or University of Technology.
Useful Information
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Career Snapshot Boilermaker |
In Demand
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Qualification Required |
Work Outdoors |
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Maths Required |
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Science Required |
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This is a general guide - it is important to check admission requirements with the various training institutions first because entry requirements may vary.
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