Machinery is often operated 24 hours a day, seven days a week, so shift work is common. Some engineers work weekends and holidays. Most work 40 hours a week. Some engineers work alone, while others work in small crews. Some are members of a union.
Wages vary with level of training, experience and location.
Entry level wages may be lower. Pay varies with the type of employer and the experience of the worker. Full-time stationary engineers generally receive benefits such as health insurance, paid vacation, and sick leave. There were 450 people employed as stationary engineers in Indiana in 1998. It is estimated that between 1996 and 2006, about 11 jobs per year will need to be filled in this occupation.