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First Class Stationary Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC

Melwood

First Class Stationary Engineer

Germantown, MD · On-site

The First-Class Stationary Engineer is located in Gaithersburg, MD and operates, monitors, maintains, and repairs industrial utility plant equipment that provides steam generation, chilled water ...

CMI Management

MD 1st Class Engineer

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

Demonstrate at least 2 years of independent operation as a first-class stationary engineer on similar-sized equipment. * Must have a current Universal CFC License Additional Information COMPETENCIES ...

Dexterra

MD 1st Class Engineer

Gaithersburg, MD

Demonstrate at least 2 years of independent operation as a first-class stationary engineer on similar-sized equipment. * Must have a current Universal CFC License Additional Information COMPETENCIES ...

Dexterra

MD 1st Class Engineer

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

Demonstrate at least 2 years of independent operation as a first-class stationary engineer on similar-sized equipment. * Must have a current Universal CFC License Additional Information COMPETENCIES ...

MedStar Health

First Class Engineer

Olney, MD

$34.54 - $57/hr

General Summary of Position Under general supervision performs stationary engineer work in the ... Experience * 1-2 years 2-3 years of experience as first class engineer required * Previous ...

MedStar Health

First Class Engineer

Olney, MD · On-site

$34.54 - $57/hr

About the Job General Summary of Position Under general supervision performs stationary engineer ... Experience * 1-2 years 2-3 years of experience as first class engineer required * Previous ...

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All JobsFirst Class Stationary Engineer JobsFirst Class Stationary Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC

First Class Stationary Engineer information

See Washington, DC salary details

$19

$42

$65

How much do first class stationary engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for first class stationary engineer in Washington, DC is $42.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32.40 and $50.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a first class stationary engineer?

First Class Stationary Engineers are highly skilled professionals responsible for operating, maintaining, and repairing stationary engines, boilers, and other mechanical equipment in facilities like power plants, factories, and large buildings. They ensure that systems such as heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and power generation run safely and efficiently. Their duties also include monitoring instruments, performing routine maintenance, troubleshooting issues, and complying with safety regulations. To become a First Class Stationary Engineer, one typically needs formal training, relevant experience, and a state or local license.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a first class stationary engineer?

To thrive as a First Class Stationary Engineer, you need in-depth knowledge of boiler operations, HVAC systems, and mechanical maintenance, usually supported by a First Class Stationary Engineer license or equivalent certification. Familiarity with computerized control systems, diagnostic tools, and regulatory compliance software is essential. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for this role. These abilities ensure safe, efficient, and reliable operation of critical building systems, minimizing downtime and ensuring regulatory compliance.

What challenges do first class stationary engineers face, and how can they be addressed?

First Class Stationary Engineers often encounter challenges such as responding quickly to equipment malfunctions, managing multiple systems simultaneously, and maintaining compliance with strict safety regulations. To address these, engineers rely on their strong troubleshooting skills, thorough preventive maintenance routines, and up-to-date knowledge of safety protocols. Effective communication with other facilities staff and ongoing professional development also help tackle these challenges and ensure smooth plant operations.

What is the difference between First Class Stationary Engineer vs Second Class Stationary Engineer?

AspectFirst Class Stationary EngineerSecond Class Stationary Engineer
CredentialsRequires a First Class license, more extensive experienceRequires a Second Class license, less experience needed
Work EnvironmentOperates and maintains large, complex heating and cooling systems in commercial or industrial buildingsHandles similar systems but on a smaller scale or less complex equipment
Employer UsageOften employed in large facilities, hospitals, or universitiesCommon in smaller buildings or facilities with simpler systems

The main difference between a First Class Stationary Engineer and a Second Class Stationary Engineer lies in their licensing requirements, with the First Class holding a higher-level license and managing more complex systems. First Class engineers typically work in larger, more complex facilities, while Second Class engineers operate in smaller or less complex environments.

What are popular job titles related to First Class Stationary Engineer jobs in Washington, DC?

For First Class Stationary Engineer jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching First Class Stationary Engineer jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for First Class Stationary Engineer jobs in Washington, DC are:

First Class Stationary Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Class Stationary Engineer job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Part Time. Highlights an 92% In-person, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,492 per year, or $42.1 per hour.

First Class Stationary Engineer

Melwood

Germantown, MD • On-site

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

The First-Class Stationary Engineer is located in Gaithersburg, MD and operates, monitors, maintains, and repairs industrial utility plant equipment that provides steam generation, chilled water production, compressed air, and electrical generation services. This position supports 24-hour operation of critical infrastructure systems while ensuring safe, efficient, and uninterrupted utility plant performance.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities 

  • Operate and monitor high-pressure steam generation equipment and associated auxiliary systems. 
  • Maintain proper steam pressure, water levels, feedwater controls, and combustion efficiency. 
  • Conduct chemical testing, water treatment activities, and blowdown adjustments required to maintain system performance. 
  • Operate and monitor chilled water production systems, cooling towers, heat exchangers, and associated distribution equipment. 
  • Operate and maintain air compressors, air dryers, and compressed air distribution systems. 
  • Operate and monitor combined heat and power (CHP) or cogeneration equipment, including associated steam and electrical generation systems. 
  • Perform preventive maintenance, inspections, troubleshooting, and corrective repairs on plant equipment. 
  • Troubleshoot and repair digital, pneumatic, and electrical control systems. 
  • Repair pumps, valves, piping systems, and related mechanical equipment. 
  • Monitor system alarms and respond to abnormal operating conditions and emergencies. 
  • Maintain accurate operating logs, maintenance records, inspection reports, and shift turnover documentation. 
  • Perform housekeeping duties to maintain safe and orderly work areas. 
  • Comply with all safety requirements, lockout/tagout procedures, PPE requirements, and operational standards. 
  • Remain onsite during assigned shifts and participate in rotating schedules, weekends, holidays, and approved overtime coverage as required. 

Equipment Responsibilities 

  • High-pressure steam boilers and associated feedwater systems. 
  • Centrifugal chillers and chilled water production systems. 
  • Cooling towers and condenser water systems. 
  • Air compressors and compressed air systems. 
  • Combined heat and power (CHP) / cogeneration equipment. 
  • Pumps, valves, heat exchangers, control systems, and ancillary utility plant equipment. 

Minimum Qualifications 

  • Current Maryland Grade 1 (First-Class Stationary Engineer) License required. 
  • Current EPA Universal CFC Certification required. 
  • Minimum two (2) years of independent operating experience as a First-Class Stationary Engineer on comparable industrial equipment. 
  • Experience with industrial boiler operations, central utility plant systems, chilled water production, and cogeneration systems. 
  • Ability to diagnose and repair mechanical, electrical, and control system problems. 
  • Working knowledge of computerized control systems, pneumatic systems, and electrical controls. 
  • Ability to obtain and maintain all required site access credentials and security clearances. 
  • Ability to work rotating shifts in a 24/7 operating environment. 

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