Torchora
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Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Engine Operator / Stationary Engineer

💰 $65,000 - $120,000

Skilled TradesEngineeringOperationsFacilities ManagementMaritime

🎯 Role Definition

We are actively seeking a vigilant and mechanically adept Engine Operator (also known as a Stationary Engineer) to join our operations team. The ideal candidate will be responsible for the safe and efficient operation, maintenance, and repair of all stationary engines and mechanical equipment, including boilers, turbines, generators, compressors, and HVAC systems. This role is critical to ensuring uninterrupted utility services and maintaining the integrity of our facility's infrastructure. You will be the frontline expert, monitoring complex systems, performing preventative maintenance, and responding swiftly to any operational issues to guarantee safety and efficiency.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • Maintenance Technician or Mechanic
  • Engineering Apprentice or Trainee
  • Maritime Oiler or Wiper

Advancement To:

  • Chief Engineer / Lead Stationary Engineer
  • Plant Operations Supervisor
  • Facilities or Building Manager

Lateral Moves:

  • HVAC Specialist
  • Industrial Maintenance Manager
  • Power Plant Control Room Operator

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Proactively operate, monitor, and maintain high-pressure and low-pressure boilers, steam turbines, and associated auxiliary equipment to ensure continuous and safe plant operation.
  • Diligently observe and interpret readings from a wide array of gauges, meters, and computerized control systems to verify operating conditions and make necessary adjustments.
  • Skillfully manipulate controls to regulate critical parameters such as steam flow, pressure, temperature, water levels, and fuel combustion efficiency.
  • Execute a comprehensive preventative maintenance program, including routine inspections, lubrication, and servicing of all power plant and utility system equipment.
  • Conduct regular and precise water quality tests on boiler water, cooling towers, and closed-loop systems, applying chemical treatments as required to prevent corrosion and scale buildup.
  • Systematically troubleshoot and diagnose complex mechanical and electrical malfunctions in engines, pumps, compressors, and control systems to identify root causes.
  • Perform major and minor repairs on a variety of industrial machinery, including disassembly, component replacement, and reassembly according to technical specifications.
  • Maintain meticulous and accurate logs, records, and reports detailing operational data, maintenance activities, safety incidents, and equipment status for compliance and analysis.
  • Ensure strict adherence to all federal, state, and local environmental and safety regulations, including OSHA, EPA, and local building codes.
  • Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot large-scale HVAC systems, including industrial chillers, cooling towers, air handling units, and building automation systems.
  • Manage and monitor the inventory and supply of fuel, lubricants, chemicals, and water, coordinating deliveries and ensuring adequate reserves are on hand.
  • Respond immediately and effectively to system alarms and emergency situations, executing established emergency procedures to secure equipment and ensure personnel safety.
  • Perform precise startup and shutdown sequences for all major plant equipment in accordance with standard operating procedures to prevent equipment damage.
  • Read, interpret, and work from complex technical documents, including blueprints, piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs), schematics, and service manuals.
  • Conduct regular safety inspections and operational checks on all machinery, life safety systems, and emergency power generation systems.
  • Execute skilled tasks such as welding, brazing, soldering, and pipefitting for the repair and installation of plant piping and structural components.
  • Assist in the planning and execution of equipment overhauls and the installation and commissioning of new systems and capital projects.
  • Analyze operational data and trends to identify opportunities for improving energy efficiency, reliability, and overall plant performance.
  • Coordinate maintenance activities with production and other departments to minimize downtime and ensure seamless utility service delivery.
  • Uphold a high standard of cleanliness and organization within the engine room, mechanical spaces, and workshops to promote a safe and efficient work environment.

Secondary Functions

  • Assist in the development of the annual budget for maintenance, repairs, and operational supplies.
  • Contribute to energy conservation programs by identifying and implementing efficiency improvements.
  • Provide training, mentorship, and technical guidance to junior operators, apprentices, and maintenance staff.
  • Participate in safety committee meetings and contribute to the ongoing development of site safety policies and procedures.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • High-Pressure Boiler Operation: Expertise in safely operating and maintaining industrial steam boilers.
  • Mechanical Troubleshooting & Repair: Advanced diagnostic skills for rotating equipment like pumps, compressors, and turbines.
  • HVAC Systems Management: Proficient with commercial/industrial chillers, cooling towers, and air handling units (AHUs).
  • Control Systems & Instrumentation: Experience with Building Automation Systems (BAS), SCADA, or Distributed Control Systems (DCS).
  • Water Treatment Chemistry: Strong understanding of water testing, analysis, and chemical dosing for boilers and cooling systems.
  • Blueprint & Schematic Reading: Ability to interpret P&IDs, electrical diagrams, and mechanical drawings.
  • Preventative Maintenance (PM): Knowledge of creating and executing PM schedules using a CMMS (Computerized Maintenance Management System).
  • Welding & Pipefitting: Competency in basic welding, brazing, and pipe repair techniques.
    -Emergency Power Systems: Familiarity with the operation and testing of diesel generators and Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS).
  • Regulatory Compliance: In-depth knowledge of OSHA, EPA, and local safety codes relevant to plant operations.

Soft Skills

  • Critical Thinking & Problem-Solving: Ability to analyze complex situations and implement effective solutions under pressure.
  • Attention to Detail: Meticulous approach to monitoring systems, recording data, and performing maintenance.
  • Communication: Clear and concise verbal and written communication skills for log-keeping and team coordination.
  • Safety Consciousness: A steadfast commitment to following safety protocols and maintaining a safe work environment.
  • Dependability & Reliability: Punctual and trustworthy, with a strong sense of ownership over assigned responsibilities.
  • Stress Tolerance: Ability to remain calm and make sound decisions during emergencies or equipment failures.
  • Teamwork: Collaborative spirit with the ability to work effectively with other engineers, technicians, and departments.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

High School Diploma or GED, supplemented by a valid state or municipal Stationary Engineer, Steam Engineer, or Boiler Operator license/certification (e.g., NIULPE, SMA, City License).

Preferred Education:

Associate's Degree or diploma from a technical college or vocational school.

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Power Engineering Technology
  • Mechanical Engineering Technology
  • Marine Engineering
  • Facilities Maintenance

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

3-10 years of hands-on experience as a Stationary Engineer or Engine Operator in a relevant setting.

Preferred:

  • Experience in a large-scale, 24/7 operational environment such as a hospital, data center, power plant, university, or large industrial manufacturing facility.
  • Experience with high-tonnage centrifugal chillers and steam-driven turbines.
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