What does a boilermaker do?
Boilermakers—also commonly known as metal fabricators or welders—fabricate, assemble and repair heavy metal structures, such as boilers, pressure vessels and tanks, that are used to store liquids and gases.
On the job, you’ll:
- Read technical drawings
- Cut and shape metal
- Weld components
- Maintain specialised equipment
Where can a boilermaker career take you?
You can work in a wide range of environments as a boilermaker - from factories to construction sites to shipyards. Your career can develop in different industries like construction, mining, manufacturing, transport and Defence.
How much do boilermakers earn?
As one of the higher paid trades in Australia, you can earn around $95,000 - $115,000+ per year as a qualified boilermaker.
During an apprenticeship, you are paid under an award, depending on your age and level of apprenticeship, which increases each year. The average wage for an apprentice can range from $500 to $980+ per week.
Apprenticeship length
4 years
Qualified Boilermaker Average Salary
$90,000 (sourced from Seek)
Industries
Construction, mining, manufacturing, transport, defence manufacturing
How to become a boilermaker
A 4-year apprenticeship will combine on-the-job training with studying towards a nationally recognised qualification at TAFE and other Registered Training Organisations.
The entry requirements to become a boilermaker in Australia are:
- Minimum Year 10
- Basic maths and English skills
You can start your journey as a boilermaker at any time, at any age – whether you’re a school leaver or changing careers later in life.
Who this career would suit
This is a hands-on trade with opportunities across Australia to progress your career into specialist areas, such as welding and fabrications, as well as moving into supervisory roles.
This trade would fit people who are:
- Physically strong
- A problem solver
- Detail-oriented
- Safety consciousness
Whether you’re starting out or changing careers, you can begin your journey as a boilermaker at any time, at any age.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
A boilermaker apprenticeship will typically take around 4 years to complete.
A boilermaker apprenticeship teaches you all about working with metal and how to use the tools for the trade. You'll be working towards a Certificate III in Engineering – Fabrication Trade (Boilermaking/Welding) over four years.
Under the supervision of qualified tradespeople, you will learn how to:
- Interpret technical drawings
- Finish structural welding to standards
- Use basic power tools and hand tools
- Weld and cut metal
No – school-based apprenticeships can start at Year 10. In fact, you can start your career as a boilermaker at any time. You can find out more about school-based apprenticeships here.
You need the minimum Year 10 education, with basic mathematics and English. Some employers may require a White Card or driver’s licence.
You are paid under an award, depending on your age and level of apprenticeship, which increases each year. Average wages can range from $500 to $980+ per week.
No, it’s not always mandatory, but it is highly recommended, especially for site-based work.
It's easy to apply for a boilermaker apprenticeship through MEGT’s Job Board.
Step 1. Click “Job Board” in the top right-hand corner of our website
Step 2. Search for 'boilermaker’, 'welder' or ‘metal fabricator’ on our Job Board
Step 3. Apply for one of the many apprenticeship opportunities
Step 4. Study and work as an apprentice for four years
Step 5. Land a job! Remember to use your new industry contacts and MEGT's job ready support
After completing your apprenticeship, you can work across Australia as a qualified boilermaker, specialise in areas such as welding or fabrication, or you can progress into supervisory roles.
You can work across construction, mining, manufacturing, transport and Defence throughout Australia.
Attending TAFE or courses with other Registered Training Organisations varies across each state, but it is usually through block release or day release, alongside full-time work. These are arrangements that authorise time off from work to complete studies.
Ready to start your apprenticeship?
Search the MEGT Job BoardWhy do an apprenticeship?
Earn while you learn
Get paid while you gain hands-on experience with your employer
Combine theory and practice
Get classroom learning like TAFE to get the right mix of practical skills and theory
Get set up for success
Receive ongoing training, guidance, and supervision to help you succeed in your new job
