Boiler Maker Jobs in Calgary

Getting a Job in Calgary as a Boilermaker

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A construction boilermaker is one of the most sought after construction jobs in Canada because of the salary. A boilermaker is a construction worker who has been trained to manufacture steel fabrications from sections and plates. They are seen working in different parts of construction sites especially when bridges are built or mining equipment is used. There are numerous boilermakers in Canada who are employed in different construction areas, such as re-piping, repairing, re-tubing of commercial steam and hot water boilers that are used for domestic heating in buildings.

The workers are governed by a body that ensures they are tested, certified and capable of performing any of their functions and roles. Their testing processes are rigorous to ensure safety. They must go through an apprenticeship program that involves 4 years paid while they are being trained. There are also other requirements to become a construction boilermaker in Canada. The person must be over 18 years old, have a high school diploma or its equivalent, and must attend a technical training school to ensure that they are perfect in their work. This training includes the fitting, boiler-making and welding of tubes. They are highly needed in construction projects like mining, constructing of bridges and other appendages around the country.

How to Become a Boilermaker in Alberta

Duties and Responsibilities

A boilermaker is a tradesperson who specializes in the production, installation, maintenance, and repair of boilers and other large containers that hold liquids or gases. These professionals are integral to industries like construction, shipbuilding, and manufacturing. Their responsibilities include reading blueprints and schematics, cutting and shaping metal, welding and bolting pieces together, and inspecting and testing completed vessels. Boilermakers also handle the installation of boilers and other vessels, which involves rigging them into place and connecting them to necessary infrastructure like pipes and power supplies. Maintenance and repair tasks are also crucial, requiring boilermakers to dismantle vessels, remove and replace damaged parts, and ensure the vessels meet safety standards.

Skills and Abilities Required

Boilermakers must possess a wide range of skills to succeed in their roles. Physical strength and stamina are essential, as the job often involves heavy lifting and working in confined spaces. They also need excellent hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity for working with small tools and parts. A solid understanding of math and science is necessary to calculate measurements and pressures and to understand the principles of thermodynamics and fluid dynamics. Additionally, boilermakers must be adept at reading and interpreting blueprints and schematics. Problem-solving skills are vital for troubleshooting issues with boilers and vessels, and good balance and agility are needed for working in potentially high or awkward positions.

Educational and Apprenticeship Requirements

To pursue a career as a boilermaker in Alberta, individuals must meet specific educational and apprenticeship requirements, which are crucial for gaining the necessary skills and experience.

High School Courses

Prospective boilermakers should focus on completing high school courses that lay a strong foundation for technical training. Essential subjects include mathematics and sciences, particularly physics, to help understand the principles of thermodynamics and fluid dynamics involved in boilermaking. Courses in technical drawing and industrial arts also provide an advantage, offering initial exposure to the tools and techniques used in the trade.

Apprenticeship Program Details

The apprenticeship for boilermakers in Alberta is structured to ensure comprehensive training and development. The program spans three years, each consisting of a minimum of 1500 hours of on-the-job training coupled with 8 weeks of technical training annually. The Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT) is the sole provider of this apprenticeship training in the region.

First Year Training: Focuses on general safety, rigging, introduction to drawings and layout, welding and cutting, and basic trade knowledge.
Second Year Training: Advances to more complex skills in rigging, drawings and layout, and introduces fitting and fabrication.
Third Year Training: Culminates with advanced training in rigging, drawings and quality controls, trade knowledge, fitting, and fabrication.

Apprentices are also required to attend workshops and seminars, such as the Apprentice Recruitment Information Seminar (ARIS) and pass specific tests like the Boilermaker Drug & Alcohol test. Successful completion of these programs and adherence to the Apprenticeship Agency Rules and Regulations ensures that apprentices are well-prepared to meet the demands of the industry and progress towards becoming skilled journeymen and women.

Certification and Examination

To obtain certification as a boilermaker in Alberta, candidates must successfully pass the Canadian Welding Bureau (CWB) certification process. This involves a rigorous examination to ensure proficiency in various welding techniques crucial for the trade.

Journeyperson Certificate

Upon completing their apprenticeship, boilermakers are eligible to apply for the Journeyperson Certificate. This certification is recognized by Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training and is a prerequisite for working on boilers, tanks, or pressure vessels in Alberta. Boilermakers from other provinces and territories can work in Alberta if they hold a recognized certificate or license.

Red Seal Certification

The Red Seal Certification offers boilermakers the opportunity to work across Canada without additional examinations. To prepare for the Red Seal examination, candidates can access resources such as sample questions and a self-assessment tool that rates their knowledge and experience in the trade. The examination covers a comprehensive range of topics relevant to boilermakers, including the construction, installation, testing, maintenance, and repair of various vessels.

Boilermakers must renew their CWB tickets every two years, which can be done by completing a two-position check test. If a ticket expires, the boilermaker must retake the initial four-position CWB test. The fee schedule for these tests includes charges for initial certification, renewal, and re-testing if necessary.

Boiler Maker Jobs

The hourly rate of a construction boilermaker varies from one province or region in Canada to another. Some provinces pay up to $41.08 per hour. For one who wants to be a construction boilermaker, the person must be able to read and write, and understand the processes that are involved in each job. Mostly men perform this job in the construction industry.