Stationary Engineers and Boiler Operators
Stationary engineers and boiler operators run and maintain the mechanical equipment that provides utilities like steam, heat, and power to buildings and industrial facilities. They operate engines, boilers, generators, turbines, and motors. Work takes place in power plants, manufacturing facilities, hospitals, universities, and large commercial buildings.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against stationary engineers and boiler operators and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves monitoring equipment gauges and control panels, performing routine maintenance and inspections, recording operational data, and troubleshooting mechanical problems. Operators may adjust valves and switches, replace worn parts, clean equipment, and conduct safety checks. Work includes both scheduled maintenance tasks and responding to equipment issues that arise during operation.
Who this work suits
Holland code RCI. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You tend to do well in this work if you prefer concrete, hands-on problem-solving over abstract tasks and like following established procedures and safety protocols. People who enjoy understanding how mechanical systems work and take satisfaction in keeping equipment running reliably thrive in this role.
What it takes
Preparation: Medium preparation (vocational training, an associate degree, or related experience). Most people in this occupation hold a certificate or training program.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Who is hiring
Openings right now
- Boiler Plant Operator · Veterans Health Administration · Wilmington, Delaware · $30.62–$35.77
- Boiler Plant Operator · Veterans Health Administration · Buffalo, New York · $32.2–$37.49
- Boiler Plant Operator-Detail NTE 120 days · Veterans Health Administration · Walla Walla, Washington · $31.28–$36.5
- Boiler Plant Operator · Veterans Health Administration · Phoenix, Arizona · $33.99–$39.66
- Boiler Plant Operator Supervisor · Veterans Health Administration · Waco, Texas · $35.5–$41.42
- Boiler Operator · U.S. Coast Guard · New London, Connecticut · $30.51–$35.53
Openings are read from employers’ own career pages and public job boards and change daily. Search all openings (free account) to filter by distance, pay and how well you qualify.
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Illinois | $86,750 | $115,780 | $123,780 | 1,680 |
| Wyoming | $111,480 | $111,920 | $113,980 | 100 |
| Hawaii | $84,140 | $103,400 | $105,570 | 70 |
| Connecticut | $82,250 | $94,870 | $101,580 | 270 |
| New York | $70,250 | $94,070 | $138,460 | 4,480 |
| Washington | $76,310 | $91,530 | $111,720 | 520 |
| California | $61,860 | $90,650 | $120,350 | 5,840 |
| District of Columbia | $79,430 | $90,470 | $101,520 | 620 |
| Alaska | $79,320 | $88,330 | $117,710 | 90 |
| Maryland | $73,930 | $85,240 | $95,230 | 850 |
| Michigan | $67,010 | $82,800 | $91,500 | 490 |
| Colorado | $60,500 | $81,310 | $92,420 | 560 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Stationary Engineer — International Union of Operating Engineers
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against stationary engineers and boiler operators and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 51-8021.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.