Stationary Engineers & Boiler Operators
Boiler Operator, Operating Engineer, Stationary Engineer, Utilities Operator
What they do:
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.
On the job, you would:
- 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.
- Activate valves to maintain required amounts of water in boilers, to adjust supplies of combustion air, and to control the flow of fuel into burners.
- Monitor boiler water, chemical, and fuel levels, and make adjustments to maintain required levels.
Knowledge
Engineering and Technology
- mechanical
- product and service development
Math and Science
- chemistry
- physics
Safety and Government
- public safety and security
Arts and Humanities
- English language
Skills
Basic Skills
- listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions
- thinking about the pros and cons of different ways to solve a problem
Problem Solving
- noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it
Abilities
Verbal
- listen and understand what people say
- communicate by speaking
Hand and Finger Use
- hold or move items with your hands
- keep your arm or hand steady
Ideas and Logic
- notice when problems happen
- make general rules or come up with answers from lots of detailed information
Personality
People interested in this work like activities that include practical, hands-on problems and solutions.
They do well at jobs that need:
- Attention to Detail
- Dependability
- Integrity
- Independence
- Adaptability/Flexibility
- Cooperation
Technology
You might use software like this on the job:
Electronic mail software
- Email software
- Microsoft Outlook
Presentation software
- Microsoft PowerPoint
Facilities management software
- Building management system software
- Computerized maintenance management system CMMS
Education
Education: (rated 3 of 5)
certificate after high school or
high school diploma/GED
usually needed
high school diploma/GED
usually needed
Job Outlook
Average
New job opportunities are likely in the future.
Explore More
- Biomass Plant Technicians
- Control & Valve Installers & Repairers
- Engine & Other Machine Assemblers
- Gas Compressor & Gas Pumping Station Operators
- Power Plant Operators
You might like a career in one of these industries:
See more details at O*NET OnLine about stationary engineers and boiler operators.