Classification Description

University of Michigan
Issued: 12/02/79 Classification Code
# 838780
Supersedes: Head Boiler Operator FLSA NE

TITLE: BOILER OPERATOR GRADE: E2

BASIC FUNCTION AND RESPONSIBILITY
To operate and maintain large stationary high and low pressure gas or oil fired boilers, supplying steam or hot water.
CHARACTERISTIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Monitor boiler operations and react to varying load requirements.
Perform constant visual checks, read gauges and manipulate controls.
Blow down boiler when conductive solids and impurities exceed specified limits; test high and low pressure safety controls.
Clear lines of sediment.
Inspect, install and repair steam pipes and insulation, valves, pumps and safety devices.
Record various meter readings of pressure and temperature.
Add chemicals to condition boiler water and water treatment equipment.
Maintain a chemical balance in boiler water according to prescribed procedures by performing standard testing procedures.
Inspect and adjust automatic or manual boiler control mechanisms.
Start up and shut down boilers.
Clean, inspect and perform routine maintenance on equipment and facilities including, but not limited to, oiling, greasing, repair of furnace refractories and repacking of leaking packing glands.
Observe fire and safety precautions.
May coordinate the work of Boiler Operator Trainees.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED
Receives general supervision from a designated official.
May receive direction from an Operating Engineer.
QUALIFICATIONS

Gradation from high school or a trade school equivalent is necessary.
Reasonable maritime or powerhouse experience with high pressure boiler operations is necessary.
Ability to tolerate high levels of heat and noise is necessary.
Reasonable mechanical aptitude is necessary.
Reasonable knowledge of the equipment, methods and materials used in boiler operations is necessary.
Reasonable knowledge of the operation and maintenance requirements of high pressure boilers and related equipment is necessary.
Ability to regulate boiler operations is necessary.
Physical ability to perform the full range of duties of the classification is necessary.

This description is intended to indicate the kinds of tasks and levels of work difficulty that will be required of positions that will be given this title and shall not be construed as declaring what the specific duties and responsibilities of any particular position shall be. It is not intended to limit or in any way modify the right of any supervisor to assign, direct, and control the work of employees under his supervision. The use of a particular expression or illustration describing duties shall not be held to exclude other duties not mentioned that are of a similar kind or level of difficulty.