Stationary Engineers & Boiler Operators vs Millwrights

Both careers offer solid paths into skilled trades with good earning potential. Stationary Engineers & Boiler Operators earn a median $75,190 versus Millwrights at $65,170—about $10,000 more annually. Job growth favors stationary engineers at 8.2% over the next decade compared to 5.4% for millwrights. Stationary engineers focus on operating and maintaining boilers, engines, and mechanical systems in facilities, while millwrights specialize in installing, moving, and dismantling heavy machinery. Training differs significantly: stationary engineers need 1-3 years with licensing requirements, while millwrights complete 4-year apprenticeships requiring strong mechanical aptitude.

Stationary engineers hold a $10,020 salary advantage with median earnings of $75,190 versus $65,170 for millwrights. Entry-level stationary engineers typically start around $45,000-50,000, while experienced operators in specialized facilities can earn $90,000+. Millwrights generally start at $40,000-45,000 with top earners reaching $85,000+. Both trades offer excellent overtime opportunities, especially during shutdowns and emergencies. Stationary engineers in power plants, hospitals, and manufacturing often see premium pay for critical operations. Millwrights command higher rates for specialized equipment installation and emergency machinery moves.

Stationary engineers primarily work indoors in controlled environments—power plants, hospitals, manufacturing facilities. Work involves monitoring systems, reading gauges, and performing maintenance. Shifts include nights, weekends, and holidays since facilities operate continuously. Physical demands are moderate with some lifting and confined space work. Millwrights face more varied conditions, working both indoors and outdoors on construction sites, factories, and industrial facilities. The work is physically demanding with heavy lifting, climbing, and precision alignment work. Travel is common, and projects may require temporary relocation. Both trades have safety risks requiring constant vigilance.

Stationary engineers can advance to chief engineer, facility manager, or specialize in areas like refrigeration or power generation. Some transition into facility management or start maintenance contracting businesses. Licensing opens doors to higher-paying positions in specialized industries. Millwrights often become lead millwrights, supervisors, or project managers. Specializations include wind turbines, conveyor systems, or heavy industrial equipment. Many start their own rigging and machinery moving companies. Both trades offer paths into sales, training, or consulting. Union involvement provides additional advancement opportunities and job security in both fields.

Both offer excellent middle-class careers with job security. Choose stationary engineering for higher pay, better growth, and facility-based stability. Choose millwright work for variety, travel, and hands-on mechanical challenges. Your personality and lifestyle preferences matter more than the salary difference.