As a boilermaker, you’ll combine your mechanical skills with a passion for problem solving. You’ll enjoy finding faults and repairing critical rail infrastructure. You will need to hold yourself to a very high standard, and have excellent attention to detail and a practical mindset. You’ll bravely enter confined spaces or work at heights to inspect and maintain equipment. You’ll enjoy hands-on mechanical tasks.

Diesel trains move most of Australia’s freight services and many passenger services. These trains are maintained by skilled tradespeople, including boilermakers who inspect, repair, and rebuild diesel engines.

Boilermakers apply modern casting and welding techniques to keep trains working safely and efficiently. They also inspect and repair ore cars, railroad tracks, and other rail infrastructure like bridges and tunnels.

As an apprentice, you’ll learn your trade from experienced trainers and senior electricians. You’ll spend time in classrooms, workshops, and trackside as you complete your training and start your career.

Once qualified, you’ll work as part of a team on a rail network or in a workshop. You may work at heights, and in tunnels or confined spaces. It can be physically demanding work in extreme temperatures. You’ll wear protective equipment such as a helmet, gloves, and a respirator.

To become a boilermaker you need a Certificate III in Engineering – Fabrication. If you don’t have experience or qualifications, there are many apprenticeship opportunities which provide you with all the training you’ll need. You’ll complete a vocational training course and receive a certificate level qualification while you work.

Typically, you’ll progress from an entry level position (apprentice) to more senior roles such as a team leader or specialist.