Most large buildings have extensive heating,
ventilation, and air-conditioning systems
that keep interiors comfortable.
Industrial plants also have facilities
for electrical power or steam
to operate equipment.
Stationary engineers and boiler operators
control the stationary engines, boilers,
and other mechanical equipment
that provides utilities both for buildings
and for industry.
Workers typically monitor water levels,
read gauges and meters,
and ensure furnaces and boilers have fuel.
They also monitor safety devices
and keep maintenance logs.
Engineers and operators are often exposed
to heat, dirt, grease, and smoke.
They spend much of their time on their feet,
and may spend hours kneeling or crouching
to crawl inside boilers
and clean or repair equipment.
With a high level of injury risk,
engineers and boiler operators
must follow procedures
to guard against burns, electric shock,
noise, and exposure to hazardous materials.
Most stationary engineers and boiler operators
work regular full time business hours.
However, in 24/7 facilities
such as hospitals,
engineers and operators may work
8-hour shifts or 12-hour shifts
on a rotating basis,
and work weekends and holidays.
Stationary engineers and boiler operators
typically need a high school diploma
or equivalent
and are trained either on the job
or through an apprenticeship program.
Many employers require licensure
or passing a company-specific exam
before an operator is allowed
to work unsupervised.