Region 3 of the American Society of Power Engineers, Inc.
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We would like to introduce you to the exciting profession of Stationary Operating Engineering, and the steps you may choose to take to become a Licensed Stationary Operating Engineer.
Stationary Operating Engineers (also known as Stationary Engineers, Steam Engineers, Boiler Operators, Powerplant Operators, Powerhouse Engineers etc.) operate and maintain the equipment used to generate power, heat, air conditioning, and refrigeration in factories and other commercial buildings. The term "stationary" refers to the type of equipment that these engineers operate—that is, equipment that is permanently set up and is not mobile. These individuals work in the heart of a building's or factory's energy supply: the boiler room, engine room, or power plant. Here, they operate diesel engines, boilers, turbines, pumps, generators, and compressors. This equipment is controlled by switchboards, valves, throttles, levers, and computers. Meters, gauges, and other measuring instruments require constant monitoring. Stationary Operating Engineers ensure the equipment operates safely by performing routine maintenance, shutting equipment down, making repairs, and regulating machinery as necessary. They keep records of boiler pressure, temperature, power output, and fuel consumption. They must keep in mind the amount of heat, power, or cooling that their equipment is supposed to deliver. They are expected to control costs by using only enough fuel and other supplies to meet the demand.
Stationary Operating Engineers are responsible for air and hydronic systems that heat and cool buildings, ventilation systems, refrigeration systems, and other mechanical systems. They work in a variety of places, including electric generating stations, factories, apartment buildings, hotels, schools, hospitals, college campuses, office buildings, mines and sewage and water treatment plants.
