The Director of Boiler Operations is responsible for the strategic and operational leadership of all boiler and steam-generation assets across the facility or multiple sites. The role ensures reliable, efficient, and compliant operation of high-pressure boiler systems, while supporting production needs, safety goals, and energy efficiency initiatives. This position also plays a critical role in asset integrity, maintenance planning, workforce competency, and energy cost optimization.
Direct daily operations, maintenance, and performance management of steam boilers, auxiliary systems, and related utilities (feedwater, condensate, deaerators, fuel handling).
Ensure all systems are operated in full compliance with ASME Boiler Codes, IBR, NFPA, and relevant local and international safety and pressure vessel regulations.
Lead planning and execution of annual boiler inspections, shutdowns, turnarounds, and emergency maintenance activities.
Develop and monitor KPIs for steam production efficiency, emissions, fuel consumption, and plant availability.
Optimize boiler loading, sequencing, and control strategies to match plant demand and reduce operational costs.
Oversee condition monitoring, NDT, failure analysis, and reliability programs for boiler pressure parts.
Collaborate with engineering, EHSS, maintenance, and energy management teams for holistic system improvements.
Manage contractor and vendor relationships for spares, overhauls, and third-party inspections.
Champion workforce development through training programs, certification tracking, and SOP standardization.
Implement and refine digital solutions (SCADA/DCS, CMMS, historian systems) for real-time performance monitoring and predictive maintenance.
Operational Excellence: Ensure consistent, high-availability operation of all steam-generation systems.
Boiler Efficiency & Optimization: Drive improvements in fuel-to-steam ratio, blowdown control, and combustion tuning.
Safety & Compliance: Maintain the highest standards of process safety, emission compliance, and pressure vessel integrity.
Asset Reliability & Lifecycle Management: Maximize boiler lifespan through preventive and predictive maintenance practices.
Team Leadership: Develop and retain a skilled workforce of boiler operators, technicians, and engineers.
Energy Cost Management: Support energy audits, condensate recovery, and heat recovery projects to reduce OPEX.
Emergency & Outage Planning: Lead all major planned shutdowns and rapid response to unplanned downtime.
Education:
Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical or Power Engineering (mandatory)
Master’s Degree or MBA in Engineering Management (preferred)
Certifications (Preferred):
First-Class Boiler Engineer Certificate / BOE License (mandatory in many jurisdictions)
ASME Section I, VIII knowledge
Certified Energy Manager (CEM), ISO 50001 familiarity (a plus)
Experience:
15–20+ years in utility and boiler operations, including 5–7 years in a senior leadership or plant management role
Proven track record managing high-capacity steam systems (coal, gas, oil, or biomass-fired)
Experience with energy-intensive industries, power plants, refineries, or district heating systems
Skills:
Strong leadership and crisis-management capabilities
Deep understanding of thermal systems, process safety, and emission control
Familiar with industry-standard tools: SCADA/DCS systems, CMMS, historian platforms
Excellent communication, root cause analysis, and decision-making skills