Stationary Engineer

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Work Tasks

STATIONARY ENGINEERS operate, maintain, and repair systems that provide heating, air-conditioning, refrigeration, and ventilation in industrial plants and other large buildings. Industrial plants have facilities to provide electrical power, steam, or other services. These systems can include boilers, air-conditioning and refrigeration equipment, diesel engines, turbines, generators, pumps, condensers, and compressors. Stationary engineers make sure that the equipment operates correctly, safely, and economically within established limits by monitoring attached meters, gauges, and other instruments, and computerized controls.

Salary, Size & Growth

• $52,500 average per year ($25.25 per hour)
• A medium occupation (78,900 workers in 2010)
• Expected to decline (0.8% per year)

Entry Requirements

Most STATIONARY ENGINEERS acquire their skills through a formal 4-year apprenticeship program, or on-the-job training supplemented by courses at trade or technical school. Most employers prefer to hire persons with at least a high school diploma or its equivalent. Many stationary engineers have some form of continuing education, including college. Opportunities will be best for workers with training in computerized controls and instrumentation.