Trades in Alberta

038
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Boilermaker

Learn more about this trade on the alis website.

  • Wage and Salary
  • Job Postings
  • Duties and Working Conditions
  • Interests, Abilities, Traits, and Skills
  • Career Advancement

Boilermakers build, erect, repair, test and maintain all types of boilers, tanks and pressure vessels, and perform all types of structural and plate work on dust, air, gas, steam, oil, water and other liquid-tight containers. Boilermakers also erect and install boilers, sometimes working on scaffolds, and repair and maintain existing boilers and related metal products. To fabricate, maintain, modify and repair boilers, tanks, heat exchangers, fired heaters, reactors and other pressure vessels, boilermakers:

  • develop a layout and plan the sequence of work to be done in a shop or field environment,
  • layout, shape and cut metal and other materials using hot and cold methods,
  • fit and assemble components using fastening methods such as bolting and welding,
  • inspect, test and perform repairs on pressure and non-pressure systems,
  • assemble and utilize cranes and other hoisting equipment to move and place materials,
  • design, assemble and use winch and block systems, and
  • execute complex hoisting operations such as large tandem lifts.

Those authorized to perform the restricted activities of this designated trade include:

  • Sponsored Apprentices, and
  • Certified Journeypersons.

For complete information, see Restricted Activities and Classes of Individuals.

Program Information

Program Information & Requirements
Apprenticeship
  • The term of apprenticeship for a boilermaker is 3 years (three 12-month periods) including a minimum of 1560 hours of on-the-job training each year and three 8-week blocks of classroom instruction.
  • Apprentices are expected to demonstrate progress in their apprenticeship program within 18 months by engaging in an activity that will lead to the completion of a period of the program.
  • Apprentices may attempt the Interprovincial Exam in the final period of their apprenticeship training and, if successful, be granted a Red Seal.
  • Upon successful completion of the apprenticeship program, the apprentice will receive a journeyperson certificate and an educational credential (Diploma).
Trades Qualifier

You can earn a Journeyperson Certificate based on: Work Experience The requirements for a Boilermaker are:

  • A minimum of 54 months AND 7,020 hours of work experience.
  • A successful theory exam.
  • A successful practical exam ($300.00).

Recognized Credentials The requirements for a Boilermaker are:

  • A valid recognized credential from another jurisdiction.
  • A successful theory exam.
  • A successful practical exam ($300.00).

Program Credit

Category Information
High School Credit
Related Trades

Applicants with an Alberta or recognized trade certificate in one of the following trades may be eligible for credit towards their apprenticeship or Trades Qualifier program requirements.

  • Ironworker
  • Metal Fabricator (Fitter)
  • Welder

Supporting Resources

 
Description
Description / Resources
Resources
Trade Information Get important information about the duties, working conditions, and skills and abilities needed to work in this trade. (You will be re-directed to the alis website.)
Job Information View job postings in this trade, and learn about the current job market, average wage and resources for finding a job. (You will be re-directed to the alis website.)
Entrance Requirement You must satisfy the educational requirements or pass the entrance exam to start an apprenticeship program. If you are writing the entrance exam, there are entrance-level competencies to help you prepare, as well as an exam counselling sheet and study guide.
Curriculum Guide Get information on all of the program requirements and what you will learn.
Classroom Instruction View a list of currently scheduled classes.
Financial Assistance Student loans, grants, scholarships and other financial assistance may be available. For more information visit our Financial Assistance section, visit an Apprenticeship and Industry Training office or call toll-free to 1-800-248-4823.
Examinations Get exam counselling sheets for your upcoming apprenticeship, interprovincial or qualification exam.
Legislation For more information regarding undertakings, activities, and certification requirements, please review the Designated Trades and Restricted Activities Regulation and the Designated Trades’ Activities and Certification Requirements Order.

 

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