BOILER OPERATOR

This position is for a Boiler Operator based at the Weskoppies Facility Maintenance Hub in Tshwane, operating within the Maintenance directorate of a government department. The role is central to ensuring the safe, efficient and continuous operation of boiler systems that support the facility’s daily functions. As a Boiler Operator, you will be responsible for the full operational cycle of the boiler plant, from monitoring pressure and temperature to managing water quality and fuel supply. You will also play a supervisory role, overseeing shift activities, maintaining registers and ensuring that all work is carried out in line with relevant safety legislation and maintenance standards. The position demands a strong commitment to occupational health and safety, as well as an orderly, clean and hazard-free working environment.

To be eligible, candidates must have a Grade 10 certificate as well as an equivalent recognised National Steam Certificate. In addition, at least one to three years of appropriate hands-on experience in boiler operation is required. You should possess a solid working knowledge of low-pressure norms and standards, maintenance works norms and standards, and the use of Public Works maintenance tools. Familiarity with the Occupational Health and Safety Act is essential. The ideal candidate will also demonstrate strong interpersonal relations, effective written and verbal communication, planning and organising abilities, and the capacity to supervise staff. Personal attributes such as professionalism, integrity, honesty, collective responsibility, attention to detail and a people-centred approach, aligned with Batho Pele Principles, are important for success in this role.

The duties are varied and technically demanding. You will be required to request chemicals from stores, test the quality of water in softeners and returning condensate water, fill chemical tanks as prescribed, and top up salt in the brine tank. You must check the working condition of chemical pumps, test total dissolved solids, and perform blow-down procedures according to prescripts. Constantly monitoring steam pressure, checking hot well tank temperatures, and adjusting the stoker to ensure efficient steam delivery are core tasks. You will also be responsible for checking feed water pump levels, ensuring standby boilers and funnels contain sufficient water and chemicals, and controlling the flow of fuel. In addition, you must keep the boiler environment clean and safe, ensure proper use of protective clothing, clean brine tanks and water filters, and remove ash from boilers, grit arresters and smoke boxes. Accurate logging of all recordings in the logbook, receiving and signing off on coal deliveries, providing shift reports, maintaining shift and overtime registers, and performing related ad hoc duties complete the scope of the role.

This vacancy is subject to a number of special conditions. The department encourages youth, people with disability, and candidates from designated groups, including coloured, Indian and white applicants, to apply; a confirmation of disability from a registered medical practitioner must accompany applications from persons with disabilities. The recruitment process includes pre-entry assessments for shortlisted candidates, covering a practical exercise and an integrity test, and all appointments are subject to a personnel suitability check including vetting, criminal record, citizenship, credit record, qualification and employment verification. Applications must be submitted using the prescribed application form and a comprehensive CV; certified copies are only required from shortlisted candidates. Foreign qualifications must be accompanied by a SAQA evaluation certificate. The department reserves the right not to make an appointment and may utilise other recruitment processes. If you do not receive a response within three months after the closing date, your application should be considered unsuccessful.