How to become a stationary engineers and boiler operator

Operate or maintain stationary engines, boilers, or other mechanical equipment to provide utilities for buildings or industrial processes. Operate equipment such as steam engines, generators, motors, turbines, and steam boilers.

Steps to get there

Most employers expect most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree..Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations. For example, an electrician must have completed three or four years of apprenticeship or several years of vocational training, and often must have passed a licensing exam, in order to perform the job.

What stationary engineers and boiler operators do

• Operate or tend stationary engines, boilers, and auxiliary equipment, such as pumps, compressors, or air-conditioning equipment, to supply and maintain steam or heat for buildings, marine vessels, or pneumatic tools.
• Maintain daily logs of operation, maintenance, and safety activities, including test results, instrument readings, and details of equipment malfunctions and maintenance work.
• Receive instructions from steam engineers regarding steam plant and air compressor operations.
• Monitor boiler water, chemical, and fuel levels, and make adjustments to maintain required levels.
• Analyze problems and take appropriate action to ensure continuous and reliable operation of equipment and systems.
• Observe and interpret readings on gauges, meters, and charts registering various aspects of boiler operation to ensure that boilers are operating properly.

Skills that matter most

• Active Listening
• Critical Thinking
• Reading Comprehension
• Active Learning
• Monitoring
• Speaking
• Writing
• Science

Is stationary engineers and boiler operator a good career?

On the numbers, this job pays above the typical job. Median pay is 54% above the all-occupation median. Whether it fits you depends on the work itself, the schooling you are willing to do and where you want to live.

Where it pays most

• Illinois $115,780
• Wyoming $111,920
• Hawaii $103,400
• Connecticut $94,870
• New York $94,070

Stationary Engineers and Boiler Operators salary by state and city

Sources: O*NET® 31.0 (CC BY 4.0, USDOL/ETA) and BLS Employment Projections 2025–35. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025.