How to Become a Stationary Engineers and Boiler Operators in California
Stationary Engineers and Boiler Operators in California earn a median salary of $78,490/year, which is 4% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~4.4%. After taxes and rent, a stationary engineers and boiler operators takes home approximately $3,602/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.
What a stationary engineers and boiler operators can afford in California
Becoming a stationary engineers and boiler operators in California
Meet education requirements
Stationary Engineers and Boiler Operators positions in California typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many stationary engineers and boiler operators positions in California require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain California licensure or certification
California may require specific licensing or professional certification for stationary engineers and boiler operatorss. Requirements vary by state — contact the California Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in California
California employs 7,800 stationary engineers and boiler operators. The highest concentrations are in San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont and Vallejo.
Stationary Engineers and Boiler Operators salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $124K | $59.67/hr | 1,290 |
| Vallejo | $119K | $57.36/hr | 110 |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $119K | $57.36/hr | 330 |
| Modesto | $102K | $49.03/hr | 60 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $92K | $44.14/hr | 610 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $86K | $41.13/hr | 90 |
| Fresno | $83K | $40.03/hr | 150 |
| Stockton-Lodi | $83K | $39.88/hr | 90 |
| Hanford-Corcoran | $82K | $39.38/hr | — |
| El Centro | $81K | $39.17/hr | 40 |
| Bakersfield-Delano | $81K | $38.72/hr | 130 |
| Napa | $72K | $34.52/hr | 110 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $70K | $33.58/hr | 2,610 |
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles | $63K | $30.49/hr | 110 |
| Visalia | $63K | $30.06/hr | 50 |
Stationary Engineers and Boiler Operators salary range in California
Stationary Engineers and Boiler Operators careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a stationary engineers and boiler operators make in California?▼
The median stationary engineers and boiler operators salary in California is $78,490 per year ($37.73/hr). This is 4% above the national median of $75,190. Salaries range from $43,530 to $128,440.
What are the requirements to become a stationary engineers and boiler operators in California?▼
Stationary Engineers and Boiler Operators positions in California typically require High school diploma or equivalent. California may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the California licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a stationary engineers and boiler operators afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $78,490, a stationary engineers and boiler operators in California would take home approximately $5,014/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 28.2% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for stationary engineers and boiler operators in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for stationary engineers and boiler operators in California are San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($124,120), Vallejo ($119,310), San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($119,310). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for stationary engineers and boiler operators?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.4%. On a $78,490 salary, this means roughly $3,437/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.