Top 11 Boilermaker Certifications

Certifications are important for a boilermaker in the job market because they demonstrate professional competency and expertise. A certification demonstrates to potential employers that the individual has taken the time and effort to learn the necessary skills to be successful in their job. The certifications also show employers that the individual is properly trained and qualified for the position. Additionally, having certifications can help a boilermaker stand out from other applicants when applying for jobs, as it shows dedication to their profession.

The article reviews the top certifications for Boilermakers and explains how they can help advance a boilermaker's career.

What are Boilermaker Certifications?

Boilermaker certification is a process by which an individual is formally recognized for their competence in the installation, maintenance, and repair of boilers. It is often done through an apprenticeship program or other formal training program that certifies the individual as having achieved a certain level of knowledge and proficiency in the field.

Boilermaker certification can help individuals in many ways. First, it provides recognition of their expertise and experience in this field, which may lead to better job opportunities and higher pay. Additionally, certified boilermakers are often more sought after than those without certification due to their demonstrated commitment to safety and quality assurance. Finally, having a certification can provide peace of mind for employers who want to ensure that their equipment is being maintained properly and safely.

Pro Tip: Make sure to research and understand the specific requirements for boilermaker certification in your area. Different states may have different regulations, so it's important to be aware of what is required and make sure you are up-to-date on the latest changes.

Related: What does a Boilermaker do?

Top 11 Boilermaker Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Boilermakers today.

1. Boilermaker Safety Certification

Boilermaker Safety Certification is a program designed to ensure that boilermakers have the knowledge and skills necessary to safely work with boilers and related equipment. This certification is offered through the National Board of Boiler and Pressure Vessel Inspectors (NBBI). To get certified, applicants must complete an approved training program, pass a written exam, and demonstrate proficiency in welding, cutting, brazing, soldering, and other related activities. The training program typically takes about four weeks to complete.

The cost of the Boilermaker Safety Certification varies depending on the type of certification sought. Generally speaking, applicants can expect to pay between $500-$1,000 for the initial application fee plus any additional fees associated with the training program.

To obtain a Boilermaker Safety Certification, applicants must first meet all prerequisites established by NBBI. These include having at least two years of experience as a boilermaker or equivalent trade experience; being at least 18 years old; passing a background check; and providing proof of completion of an approved safety course. Once these requirements are met, applicants will need to submit an application along with supporting documents such as transcripts or certificates from prior courses taken.

Once accepted into the program, applicants will be required to attend an approved training course conducted by a certified instructor. During this course they will learn how to safely operate boilers and related equipment while adhering to all applicable safety regulations. Upon successful completion of the course and exams, applicants will receive their Boilermaker Safety Certification from NBBI.

2. Boilermaker Welding Certification

Boilermaker Welding Certification is a certification program designed to ensure that welders have the necessary skills and knowledge to safely and accurately weld boilers, pressure vessels, tanks, and other related equipment. The certification is offered through the American Boilermakers Association (ABA) and is recognized by employers in the boilermaking industry.

To get Boilermaker Welding Certification, applicants must complete a welding course approved by the ABA and pass a written exam. The course typically takes between two to four weeks to complete depending on the level of experience of the student. Once completed, students must submit an application for certification with supporting documentation such as proof of completion of the welding course and any applicable certifications or licenses.

The cost of Boilermaker Welding Certification varies depending on the school offering the course but generally ranges from $500 - $2,000 USD.

3. Boilermaker Nondestructive Testing (NDT) Certification

Boilermaker Nondestructive Testing (NDT) Certification is a certification program that is designed to verify the knowledge and skills of boilermakers in the area of nondestructive testing. This certification is issued by the American Boilermakers Association (ABA) and requires applicants to pass a written exam and demonstrate competency in one or more NDT methods.

It typically takes about three months to get certified, depending on the availability of courses and exams. To get certified, applicants must first complete an approved training course in one or more NDT methods. After completing the course, applicants must take and pass a written exam administered by the ABA. The cost of getting certified varies depending on the type of certification and the number of NDT methods being tested for, but typically ranges from $500 to $2,000.

4. Boilermaker Rigging and Hoisting Certification

Boilermaker Rigging and Hoisting Certification is a type of training and certification program designed to ensure that workers are qualified to safely operate hoisting and rigging equipment. This certification is required by many employers in the construction, manufacturing, and other industries.

The program typically takes two days to complete and covers topics such as rigging safety, crane operation, load calculations, sling selection, inspection requirements, and more. Participants must pass a written exam at the end of the course in order to receive their certification.

In order to get Boilermaker Rigging and Hoisting Certification, individuals must first take an approved course from an accredited provider. These courses can be taken online or in-person depending on the provider. After completing the coursework, participants must then pass the written exam in order to receive their certification.

The cost of Boilermaker Rigging and Hoisting Certification varies depending on the provider but typically ranges from $200-$400 USD per person for the course and exam fee.

5. Boilermaker Pipefitting/Plumbing Certification

Boilermaker Pipefitting/Plumbing Certification is a certification program offered by the National Boilermakers Association (NBA) to certify qualified pipefitters and plumbers. The certification requires successful completion of a written exam and hands-on practical skills testing. The program is designed to ensure that individuals have the knowledge and skills necessary to safely install, maintain, and repair piping systems in industrial, commercial, and residential settings.

The certification process typically takes between two to three months to complete. To get started, an individual must first become a member of the NBA and pay the required membership fee. After becoming a member, applicants must then complete an application for certification which includes providing proof of prior experience or training in pipefitting or plumbing. Once approved, applicants can then register for the written exam which is administered by the NBA at designated locations throughout the country. Upon passing the written exam, applicants must then complete a hands-on practical skills test at an accredited facility in order to receive their certification.

The cost of obtaining Boilermaker Pipefitting/Plumbing Certification varies depending on the location where testing takes place as well as any additional fees associated with membership or other materials needed for testing purposes. Generally speaking, however, it can cost anywhere from $100-$500 USD depending on these factors.

6. Boilermaker Layout and Fabrication Certification

Boilermaker Layout and Fabrication Certification is a certification program offered by the National Boilermakers Association (NBA). It is designed to ensure that boilermakers have the knowledge and skills necessary to safely install, operate, maintain, and repair boilers and other pressure vessels. The certification program consists of two parts: a written exam and a practical assessment.

The written exam covers topics such as welding procedures, pipe fitting, layout techniques, safety regulations, and more. The practical assessment requires candidates to demonstrate their ability to layout and fabricate boiler components in accordance with industry standards.

It typically takes between one to two years to complete the certification process. Candidates must complete a minimum of 160 hours of approved training before they can take the written exam. After passing the written exam, candidates must then pass a practical assessment administered by an NBA-approved instructor.

The cost of obtaining Boilermaker Layout and Fabrication Certification varies depending on the number of courses taken and other factors. Generally speaking, it costs around $3,000-$4,000 for all required courses and exams.

7. Boilermaker Maintenance and Repair Certification

Boilermaker Maintenance and Repair Certification is a professional certification program that verifies the knowledge and skills of boilermakers who are responsible for maintaining and repairing boilers. The certification is offered by the National Board of Boiler and Pressure Vessel Inspectors (NBBI) and is designed to ensure that boilermakers have the necessary qualifications to safely perform maintenance, repairs, and inspections on boilers.

The certification process involves an online application, followed by an in-person written exam. The exam consists of 60 questions covering topics such as safety, welding, fabrication, installation, operation, maintenance, repair, inspection, and troubleshooting. To pass the exam, applicants must score at least 75%.

The certification process typically takes four to six weeks from start to finish. Applicants should expect to spend approximately two hours on the online application process and up to three hours taking the written exam.

The cost of obtaining Boilermaker Maintenance and Repair Certification varies depending on the applicant's location. Generally speaking, it costs between $200-$400 USD for the application fee plus any additional fees associated with taking the written exam.

8. Boilermaker Pressure Vessels and Piping Systems Certification

Boilermaker Pressure Vessels and Piping Systems Certification is a certification program designed to provide qualified boilermakers with the knowledge and skills necessary to safely install, inspect, maintain, and repair pressure vessels and piping systems. This certification is offered through the National Board of Boiler and Pressure Vessel Inspectors (NBBI).

To become certified, applicants must have at least five years of experience in the construction or maintenance of pressure vessels or piping systems. Applicants must also pass an examination that tests their knowledge of safety regulations, materials used in pressure vessel fabrication, welding techniques, pipefitting practices, and other related topics. The exam typically takes about four hours to complete.

Once an applicant has passed the exam, they are eligible for certification as a Boilermaker Pressure Vessels and Piping Systems Certified Technician (BPVPC-T). This certification is valid for three years after which recertification is required.

The cost of taking the BPVPC-T exam varies based on location but typically ranges from $200-$400 USD.

9. Boilermaker Refractory Installation and Maintenance Certification

Boilermaker Refractory Installation and Maintenance Certification is a certification program offered by the National Association of Boiler and Pressure Vessel Inspectors (NABPVI). This certification is designed to ensure that boilermakers have the knowledge and skills necessary to safely install, maintain, and repair refractory materials in boilers.

The certification process takes approximately four weeks to complete. During this time, applicants must complete a series of tests that cover topics such as safety, installation techniques, maintenance practices, and troubleshooting. Upon successful completion of all tests, applicants will receive their certification.

To get started with the Boilermaker Refractory Installation and Maintenance Certification program, prospective applicants should contact NABPVI directly for more information on how to apply. The cost of the program varies depending on the number of tests taken and other factors; however, it typically ranges from $200-$400 USD.

10. Boilermaker Insulation Installation and Maintenance Certification

Boilermaker Insulation Installation and Maintenance Certification is a certification program designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to safely install and maintain insulation systems in industrial facilities. The certification program is offered by the National Boilermakers Association (NBA) and is recognized by employers throughout the United States.

The program consists of three courses: Basic Insulation Installation, Advanced Insulation Installation, and Boilermaker Insulation Maintenance. Each course takes approximately 40 hours to complete, for a total of 120 hours of instruction.

To obtain the Boilermaker Insulation Installation and Maintenance Certification, an individual must successfully complete all three courses and pass a written exam with a score of 70% or higher. The cost for the entire program is $1,500.

11. Boilermaker Heat Exchanger Installation and Maintenance Certification

Boilermaker Heat Exchanger Installation and Maintenance Certification is a certification program that is designed to provide boilermakers with the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to safely install and maintain heat exchangers. This certification is offered by the National Board of Boiler and Pressure Vessel Inspectors (NBBI).

The Boilermaker Heat Exchanger Installation and Maintenance Certification requires applicants to complete an online course and pass an exam. The course covers topics such as safety regulations, installation procedures, maintenance practices, troubleshooting techniques, and more. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions that test the applicant’s knowledge of heat exchanger installation and maintenance.

The Boilermaker Heat Exchanger Installation and Maintenance Certification takes approximately 8 hours to complete. After successful completion of the course and passing the exam, applicants will receive their certification card from NBBI.

The cost for this certification varies depending on the provider offering it. Generally speaking, it costs between $200-$400 USD for the course materials, exam fees, and certification card processing fees.

Do You Really Need a Boilermaker Certificate?

A boilermaker certificate is a requirement for anyone who wishes to work in the field of boilermaking. It is a document that proves your skills and qualifications related to the trade, and it is necessary in order to be employed as a boilermaker.

The answer to whether you need a boilermaker certificate depends largely on what type of work you are seeking. If you plan to work as a professional boilermaker, then yes, it is essential that you obtain your certification. Not only will it prove your knowledge and skills related to the trade, but most employers also require certification in order for an applicant to be considered for employment.

On the other hand, if you simply want to learn more about the field or do some small-scale repairs around your home, then obtaining a certificate may not be necessary. However, even if certification isn’t required, having one can still be beneficial since it provides proof of your knowledge and abilities when working with boilers.

In summary, whether or not you need a boilermaker certificate depends on what type of work you are seeking. If you are looking for professional employment in this field, then having one is absolutely essential; however, if you just want to learn more about boilers or do some small-scale repairs at home, then obtaining certification may not be necessary.

Related: Boilermaker Resume Examples

FAQs About Boilermaker Certifications

Q1. What is a Boilermaker Certification?

A1. A Boilermaker Certification is a credential issued by the National Board of Boiler and Pressure Vessel Inspectors that proves an individual has met specific educational and experience requirements to safely design, construct, install, repair, or maintain boilers and pressure vessels.

Q2. How do I obtain a Boilermaker Certification?

A2. To obtain a Boilermaker Certification you must complete an approved apprenticeship program or pass an equivalency exam administered by the National Board of Boiler and Pressure Vessel Inspectors.

Q3. What is the cost of obtaining a Boilermaker Certification?

A3. The cost of obtaining a Boilermaker Certification varies depending on the type of certification sought and the location in which it is being obtained; however, generally speaking, you can expect to pay anywhere from $150 to $500 for the exam fees alone.

Q4. How long does it take to become certified as a boilermaker?

A4. It typically takes between two to four years to become certified as a boilermaker depending on your experience level and how many hours you are able to devote towards completing your training and exams.

Q5. Are there any continuing education requirements for maintaining my boilermaker certification?

A5: Yes, all boilermakers must complete eight hours of continuing education every three years in order to maintain their certification status with the National Board of Boiler and Pressure Vessel Inspectors.