Career: Stationary Engineers and Boiler Operators
Talk about dirty work. Stationary engineers and boiler operators often work in hot, dusty, noisy environments, crawl inside boilers, and use grease to lubricate equipment.
But if it weren’t for these hardworking folks, the air in our offices wouldn’t be clean and we wouldn’t have heat in the winter. By operating the systems behind these and other needed services, stationary engineers and boiler operators serve a very important function -- and get paid pretty well to do it, too.
Stationary engineers and boiler operators run and repair heating, air-conditioning, refrigeration, and ventilation systems in large buildings. They also maintain electrical power and steam systems in industrial plants.
Did You Know?
- You’ll use hand tools and power tools for repair work and computers to operate systems in new buildings and plants.
Are You Ready To...?
- Run and repair equipment
- Work in a hot, grimy environment
- Check meters, gauges, and controls
- Keep a log of information
- Use hand tools as well as computers
- Lubricate parts and replace filters
It Helps to Be...
Good with machines and in good shape -- you’ll be on your feet a lot in this job. A sharp mind and a knack for math and science are helpful, too, because the equipment you’ll operate is complex.
Make High School Count
- Take shop, where you’ll learn how to use hand tools and power tools.
- Sign up for chemistry, where you’ll learn a bit about the chemicals and substances you might encounter in this job, including asbestos.
- Get a jump on physics. It’s one of the subjects you’ll study as an apprentice in this trade.
Did You Know?
- Carpentry, plumbing, locksmithing, and electrical repairs are often part of the job.
Outlook
Jobs for stationary engineers and boiler operators are expected to grow more slowly than the average for all careers through 2016, according to government economists. Applicants will probably face competition for these jobs. Those with apprenticeship training or vocational school course work in computerized systems will have the best chances of finding work.
Compensation
Stationary engineers and boiler operators earned an average yearly salary of $48,700 in 2007, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. High wages are one reason why people stay in these jobs, resulting in fewer job openings.
