Boiler Operator

About the Role

• We are seeking an experienced Boiler Operator to operate and maintain the factory steam boiler system supporting carton and paper packaging production.
• The ideal candidate should have hands-on experience operating industrial boilers in a manufacturing environment, preferably within a carton, corrugated, paper, packaging, or other process manufacturing factory. Experience with HFO-fired or similar industrial steam boilers will be highly advantageous.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate the factory boiler safely and efficiently to ensure a reliable supply of steam for production.
• Monitor boiler pressure, temperature, water levels, fuel consumption, steam output, and other operating parameters.
• Conduct routine inspection of the boiler, burners, pumps, valves, gauges, water treatment systems, and associated equipment.
• Start up, operate, shut down, and isolate the boiler in accordance with approved operating procedures.
• Monitor fuel supply and ensure efficient fuel utilisation.
• Conduct routine boiler water testing and maintain appropriate water treatment parameters.
• Monitor and maintain boiler feed-water systems, softeners, chemical dosing systems, and condensate return systems.
• Record boiler operating parameters, fuel consumption, water treatment results, faults, and maintenance activities in the relevant logbooks.
• Identify abnormal operating conditions, leaks, pressure variations, equipment faults, and other potential safety or operational issues.
• Carry out routine cleaning and basic maintenance of boiler equipment and surrounding areas.
• Coordinate with maintenance and production teams during breakdowns, servicing, and planned maintenance.
• Ensure compliance with boiler safety procedures, occupational health and safety requirements, and environmental standards.
• Maintain good housekeeping within the boiler room and surrounding work areas.
• Immediately report equipment defects, unsafe conditions, and operational abnormalities to the relevant supervisor.
• Support statutory inspections, testing, and maintenance of boiler equipment.
• Perform any other duties related to boiler operations as assigned by management.

Qualifications & Experience

• KCSE or equivalent.
• Certificate/Diploma in Boiler Operations, Mechanical Engineering, Plant Operations, Electrical/Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical field is preferred.
• Valid boiler operator certification/licence as required by applicable regulations.
• Minimum 2–3 years of hands-on experience operating industrial boilers in a manufacturing environment.
• Experience in a carton, corrugated, paper, packaging, or other process manufacturing factory will be highly preferred.
• Experience operating HFO-fired, diesel-fired, biomass, or other industrial steam boilers is an added advantage.
• Practical knowledge of boiler water treatment and feed-water systems.
• Experience with boiler safety procedures and routine equipment checks.
• Ability to maintain accurate operational records and logbooks.

Key Competencies

• Strong understanding of industrial boiler operations
• Safety-conscious and responsible approach to work
• Ability to identify and respond to abnormal boiler conditions
• Good mechanical troubleshooting skills
• Attention to detail
• Ability to work independently and under pressure
• Good record-keeping skills
• Strong teamwork and communication skills
• High level of discipline and adherence to operating procedures

Preferred Background

• Candidates who have previously worked in carton, corrugated, paper, packaging, printing, or other manufacturing factories will be strongly considered.
• Experience with companies operating industrial steam boilers will be an added advantage.