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The differences between boiler operators and watch engineers can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. It typically takes 1-2 years to become both a boiler operator and a watch engineer. Additionally, a watch engineer has an average salary of $91,906, which is higher than the $49,782 average annual salary of a boiler operator.
The top three skills for a boiler operator include preventive maintenance, air compressors and boiler room. The most important skills for a watch engineer are HVAC, plant equipment, and preventive maintenance.
A boiler operator specializes in the maintenance and repair of boiler machines and similar facilities in industrial establishments such as warehouses, power plants, and factories. As a boiler operator, it is their responsibility to monitor and operate systems and equipment, perform adjustments, observe factors such as temperature and pressure, write daily records, and replace equipment parts as needed. They may also maintain the cleanliness of areas, keeping supplies organized at all times. Furthermore, a boiler operator must conduct regular maintenance checks to ensure a safe and efficient work environment.
A watch engineer designs and develops equipment according to project concepts and requirements. Although their responsibilities vary upon their industry or company of employment, it typically includes conducting research and analyses to establish plans, produce prototypes, create and implement test structures, troubleshoot problems, and develop strategies to optimize operations. They may also oversee the performance of staff and provide technical support and guidance as needed. Moreover, as a watch engineer, it is essential to maintain an active communication line with team members for efficient progress.
Boiler operators and watch engineers have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Boiler Operator | Watch Engineer | |
| Average salary | $49,782 | $91,906 |
| Salary range | Between $35,000 And $70,000 | Between $64,000 And $130,000 |
| Highest paying City | Ithaca, NY | - |
| Highest paying state | New York | - |
| Best paying company | Southeastern Med | - |
| Best paying industry | Manufacturing | - |
There are a few differences between a boiler operator and a watch engineer in terms of educational background:
| Boiler Operator | Watch Engineer | |
| Most common degree | High School Diploma, 36% | Bachelor's Degree, 34% |
| Most common major | Engineering | Heating And Air Conditioning |
| Most common college | - | - |
Here are the differences between boiler operators' and watch engineers' demographics:
| Boiler Operator | Watch Engineer | |
| Average age | 50 | 50 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 95.7% Female, 4.3% | Male, 98.8% Female, 1.2% |
| Race ratio | Black or African American, 10.2% Unknown, 4.6% Hispanic or Latino, 16.8% Asian, 8.0% White, 59.9% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.5% | Black or African American, 13.3% Unknown, 4.5% Hispanic or Latino, 16.4% Asian, 7.5% White, 57.8% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.4% |
| LGBT Percentage | 4% | 4% |