How to Become a Maintenance Technician
- Quick Facts: Maintenance Technician Salary, Education, and Outlook
- What Maintenance Technicians Do
- Skills and Qualities for Success
- Where Maintenance Technicians Work
- How to Become a Maintenance Technician (5 Steps)
- Maintenance Technician Salary by State
- Education and Training Paths
- Career Growth and Advancement
- Cost and Program Duration
- Pros and Cons
- Licensing and Requirements
- Take the First Step Toward a Maintenance Career
Like solving problems and working with your hands?
Maintenance Technicians are the behind-the-scenes pros who keep buildings, machinery, and systems running smoothly.
From manufacturing plants to hospitals, Maintenance Technicians perform essential repairs, preventive maintenance, and troubleshooting across electrical, mechanical, and HVAC systems.
Quick Facts: Maintenance Technician Salary, Education, and Outlook
What Maintenance Technicians Do
Maintenance Technicians repair, install, and maintain the equipment and systems that keep facilities operational.
They’re problem-solvers who use electrical, mechanical, and diagnostic skills daily.
Common Responsibilities
- Inspect and maintain machinery, HVAC systems, and building infrastructure
- Perform routine preventive maintenance
- Troubleshoot electrical or mechanical issues
- Read blueprints and technical manuals
- Keep maintenance records and safety logs
- Ensure compliance with safety and environmental regulations
When a machine breaks down, they’re the first call that gets production back online.
Skills and Qualities for Success
- Strong mechanical aptitude
- Problem-solving and troubleshooting skills
- Electrical and HVAC knowledge
- Time management and dependability
- Physical stamina and attention to safety
- Ability to read schematics and manuals
Where Maintenance Technicians Work
- Manufacturing plants
- Commercial buildings
- Hospitals and schools
- Hotels and property management firms
- Food production and packaging facilities
- Government and public works departments
How to Become a Maintenance Technician (5 Steps)
Most technicians enter the field in 1–2 years, combining classroom instruction with hands-on training.
1. Earn a High School Diploma or GED
Focus on courses in math, physics, and shop classes. These build the foundation for technical skills you'll use on the job.
2. Complete a Maintenance Technician or Industrial Technology Program
Enroll in a certificate or associate degree program that covers:
- Electrical systems
- Hydraulics and pneumatics
- Welding and fabrication
- HVAC and mechanical systems
3. Gain Hands-On Experience
Internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level maintenance positions help develop practical troubleshooting and repair experience.
4. Earn Certifications
Certifications can demonstrate your competence and improve job opportunities:
- EPA Section 608 - for HVAC and refrigeration
- OSHA 10/30 - safety training
- NIMS or MSSC - manufacturing maintenance standards
5. Apply for Maintenance Technician Jobs
Employers value hands-on experience, safety awareness, and mechanical problem-solving. Continue learning new technologies to stay competitive.
Maintenance Technician Salary by State
💡 Higher pay is common in manufacturing, power generation, and large-scale facilities with complex systems.
Education and Training Paths
| Pathway | Typical Duration | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Certificate | 6–12 months | Entry-level employment |
| Associate Degree | 2 years | Broader technical knowledge and advancement potential |
| Apprenticeship | 2–3 years | Earn while you learn model |
Career Growth and Advancement
Experienced technicians can move into:
- Maintenance Supervisor or Manager
- Industrial Machinery Mechanic
- HVAC Specialist
- Facilities Engineer
- Building Systems Technician
Cost and Program Duration
- Program Cost: $4,000–$12,000 depending on location and school
- Duration: 6 months to 2 years
- Certification Fees: $50–$200
Many schools offer evening or online classes for working students.
Pros and Cons
Licensing and Requirements
Licensing varies by state and industry.
Some employers require HVAC or electrical certifications for specialized maintenance work.
View Maintenance Technician Licensing by State »
Take the First Step Toward a Maintenance Career
If you enjoy fixing things, solving problems, and keeping systems running, becoming a Maintenance Technician can offer a stable and rewarding career path.
🎓 Find Maintenance Technician Schools Near You
Maintenance Technician Salary by State
Meet the author: Brad Fishbein is a Florida Licensed Mold Assessor and council-certified Microbial Investigator. He’s the founder of TradeCareerPath.com and has completed over 5,000 mold inspections since 2009. Brad now helps homeowners and tradespeople make smart decisions about mold, licensing, and skilled career paths.
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