What Does a Maintenance Mechanic Do?
Maintenance mechanics repair, program, and maintain equipment and machines. They are responsible for the upkeep of buildings and mechanical systems, such as heating and cooling systems. Maintenance mechanic job duties depend largely on the systems which they maintain.
What else does a maintenance mechanic do? Some mechanics will usually split their time between repair, maintenance, and the installation of system components and office hours. There is some risk associated with this career; workers may be at risk for electrical shocks, scrapes and bruises, cuts, and exposure to toxic materials. There is a need for physical strength as a maintenance mechanic as well. Mechanics usually work full-time, which may include nights, weekends, and on-call hours for emergencies.
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Requirements for Maintenance Mechanic Careers
Getting into a maintenance mechanic career requires a high school diploma. More complex tasks may require licensure. Voluntary maintenance mechanic certification is available from a variety of organizations. Key skills for maintenance mechanics include:
- Dexterity
- Computer skills
- Mechanical skills
- Toubleshooting skills
Now let's take a look at the different steps you can take to get into this position.
How to Become a Maintenance Mechanic
Step 1: Meet the Maintenance Mechanic School Requirements
Employers prefer to hire candidates who have earned at least a high school diploma. Aspiring maintenance mechanics seeking to gain basic skills and technical knowledge may take courses at community colleges or vocational schools. Mechanical drawing, mathematics and blueprint reading are useful courses for individuals interested in a maintenance career. Maintenance mechanics also need to have essential computer skills. Complete maintenance mechanic training programs are also widely available at schools nationwide.
Step 2: Get On-the-Job Maintenance Mechanic Training
New maintenance mechanics typically receive on-the-job training under more experienced professionals. New hires generally begin with simpler tasks, such as fixing leaky faucets. As they gain experience, they may take on more challenging jobs, such as servicing boilers and building walls.
Step 3: Earn Maintenance Mechanic Certification or Licensure
Maintenance mechanics can obtain professional certification from organizations such as the International Maintenance Institute (IMI). The IMI offers the Certified Maintenance Technician (CMT) and Certified Maintenance Professional (CMP) designations based on education level and required corresponding work experience. Applicants must also pass exams to fulfill certification requirements. Re-certification requires completing maintenance-related continuing education courses within the term of the certification.
A maintenance mechanic who plans to perform plumbing or electrical work may be required to obtain a state license. Requirements vary by state and may include meeting minimum experience requirements. Maintenance mechanics who plan to become project managers or open their own businesses may find it useful to pursue a degree in construction management.
Maintenance Mechanic Salary & Job Outlook
In 2020, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics stated the median annual wage of maintenance and repair workers was $40,850. The highest-paid 10% of these workers earned a median wage of $65,590, while the lowest-paid 10% earned $26,130. Maintenance mechanics can expect their job field to grow by around 8% between 2020 and 2030, according to the BLS. This is on par with the average for all jobs in the U.S.
To review, with a high school diploma, on the job training and, possibly, certification, maintenance mechanics can earn about $41,000 a year to repair, program, and maintain equipment and machines.
