U.S. median pay
$78,620 a year
Washington median
$91,530
Openings per year
About 3,200
Hard part
Getting in the door
Stationary engineers, also called operating engineers or boiler operators, run and maintain the boilers, chillers, HVAC systems, generators and pumps that keep hospitals, universities, factories and large buildings running. Most people have never heard of the job, which is part of what makes it interesting.
Why so few people know about it
From the dean’s desk
There aren’t a lot of opportunities to get into it, so you really have to know someone. It will be interesting to see where the career goes over the next few years.
— Lester Burkes, Dean of Trades, Transportation & Apprenticeship
The numbers back that up. There were about 31,200 jobs nationally in 2025, with about 3,200 openings a year. BLS notes that apprenticeship programs are limited, so employers often have trouble finding workers who completed one.
What stationary engineers earn
| Area | Median pay (May 2025) | Hourly | Jobs |
|---|---|---|---|
| United States | $78,620 | $37.80 | 28,250 |
| Washington | $91,530 | $44.00 | 520 |
| Seattle–Tacoma–Bellevue | $112,250 | $53.96 | — |
| California | $90,650 | $43.58 | 5,840 |
| San Francisco–Oakland–Fremont | $129,930 | $62.46 | — |
| Los Angeles–Long Beach–Anaheim | $74,420 | $35.78 | — |
Source: O*NET OnLine, BLS OEWS May 2025.
How to become a stationary engineer
1
Finish high school with math and science
Mechanical and technical classes help. Vocational or college courses in HVAC, electrical or building systems can help you advance.
2
Get your foot in the door
Many stationary engineers start in building maintenance or HVAC and learn on the job under an experienced engineer. Networking matters, so let people in facilities and maintenance know you’re interested.
3
Look for an apprenticeship
Apprenticeships usually last four years, with 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 600 hours of technical instruction. Unions such as the International Union of Operating Engineers run some of these programs.
4
Check licensing where you live
Some states and cities require stationary engineer or boiler operator licenses, usually in several classes based on equipment size. Applicants typically need experience and a written exam.
Who should consider this career
- People who like mechanical systems and keeping things running smoothly
- HVAC, maintenance or electrical workers looking for a next step
- Anyone who wants steady work in places like hospitals, campuses and public buildings
Frequently asked questions
What does a stationary engineer do?
Stationary engineers operate and maintain the boilers, HVAC systems, generators and other equipment that heat, cool and power large buildings and plants.
How much do stationary engineers make?
The national median was $78,620 in May 2025. In Washington it was $91,530.
Do stationary engineers need a license?
Some states and cities require one. Requirements vary, so check with your state or local licensing office.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Stationary Engineers and Boiler Operators
- BLS: OEWS, May 2025
- International Union of Operating Engineers
Related: The Easiest Trades to Learn · All construction guides
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