The stationary engineer works with systems that generally include boilers, refrigeration units, pumps, compressors and other machinery. Their work is similar in many ways to marine engineers, except instead of a ship, they direct the systems power to the operation of a building, hence the "stationary" part of the job's name. Maintaining and operating a building's physical plant involves a regular round of monitoring and logging operating information; scheduling and performing maintenance; performing repairs; and balancing separate heating, cooling and ventilation systems to provide a comfortable indoor environment.
Most stationary engineers learn their trade on the job or in a more formal union-sponsored apprenticeship program. The International Union of Operating Engineers is the most important of these, according to the federal Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Apprenticeships typically last four years and include at least 6,000 hours of practical hands-on learning. Classroom instruction is also given in the practical aspects of physics and chemistry, blueprint reading, standards of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and other such topics. With the increasing use of computer-controlled systems, continuing education is becoming more important in the field.
While some future stationary engineers start off with no formal training, one or two years in trade school can make for faster advancement. Vocational certificates in heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems provide a good starting point for a career as a stationary engineer. These and related courses are also a common choice for people already working in the field who wish to upgrade their qualifications. College courses in computers, control systems and business management or communications can also be helpful in preparing for more senior positions.
In a May 2009 survey by the BLS, the middle 50 percent of stationary engineers reported an average income of $51,370. Those in the top 10 percent averaged over $74,000 annually. The position offers a strong element of stability, but the relatively low number of openings in a given year means competition for jobs can be fierce.