Stationary Engineer and Boiler Operator Careers
Stationary engineers and boiler operators maintain, monitor, and control all sorts of mechanical equipment, including stationary engines and boilers. Their work is extremely important because it ensures that utility services continue to be provided to buildings and manufacturing locations.
This career provides the opportunity to learn new skills and take on important responsibilities. Stationary engineers and boiler operators have the opportunity to work with a wide variety of tools and technologies in their careers, including gas welding tools and photo imaging software.
Stationary Engineer and Boiler Operator Career Snapshot
Stationary engineers and boiler operators typically work in the medical, manufacturing and education industries, as well as the public sector. It is not unusual for them to work nights and weekends if they are employed in 24-hour operations. Shift work is typical, and overtime is possible in certain situations.
Further details on a career as a stationary engineer and boiler operator are listed below (statistics from the May 2015 Bureau of Labor Statistics and Onet Online):
is the average yearly salary for stationary engineers and boiler operators.
increase in employment between 2014 and 2024.
have a High school diploma or equivalent; 16% possess a Post-secondary certificate.
Stationary Engineer/Boiler Operator Education
This position requires a minimum of a high school education. Most of the training needed to adequately perform the necessary duties are learned on the job under the tutelage of more experienced coworkers. It is not uncommon for employers to mandate that stationary engineers and boiler operators who work for them obtain certain licenses or pass the company’s testing in order to perform their duties independently.
Stationary Engineer/Boiler Operator Job Duties
Stationary engineers and boiler operators typically complete the following tasks on a daily basis: inspect essential equipment, monitor boiler fluid levels, and test boiler water to ensure that proper chemical levels are achieved and maintained. While this is only a partial list of their responsibilities, it should give you a good idea of what a typical day is like.
Stationary Engineer/Boiler Operator Salaries
As of 2015 according to BLS.gov reports, the median pay for stationary engineers and boiler operators was $58,530. While the salaries of the top 10% in the field can reach into the low $90,000 range, only those with the most experience typically receive that kind of pay. Entry-level workers can expect a very good starting salary of approximately $35,000.
Stationary Engineer/Boiler Operator Job Outlook
The outlook for the stationary engineers and boiler operators field is steady. While experts expect the employment demands to increase only 1% through 2024, it is encouraging that the numbers are not expected to decline. Companies need these types of professionals, and those with previous apprenticeship training have an advantage when it comes to securing a position.
Stationary Engineer and Boiler Operator Skills & Traits
| Stationary Engineer Skill Set: | Required Abilities: | Tools Used by Stationary Engineers: | Typical Work Activities: |
|---|---|---|---|
| • Operation Monitoring • Critical Thinking • Operation and Control • Active Listening • Monitoring | • Near Vision • Oral Comprehension • Oral Expression • Problem Sensitivity • Control Precision | • Gas brazing equipment • Sandblasters • Pressure indicators • Screwdrivers • Voltage or current meters | • Inspecting Equipment • Monitor Processes • Decision Making • Communicating with Others • Recording Information |
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