what is a maintenance mechanic?

Maintenance mechanics keep everything running by maintaining and repairing all kinds of systems. In this role, you'll take care of different pieces of equipment. While many of your tasks revolve around maintenance, you'll also need to know how to install systems.

The specific types of systems you work on depend on which industry you operate out of. If you work in the manufacturing industry, you'll need to keep CNC machines, industrial robots and other systems in good working order. When a machine abruptly malfunctions, your responsibility is to troubleshoot the problem and perform emergency repairs.

Whether you're running diagnostic tests or repairing a complex piece of machinery, you'll use a combination of hand and power tools. It's important that any work you do adheres to safety regulations and procedures. Would working as a maintenance mechanic suit your technical skills? Then read on to find out what competencies and qualifications you need to thrive in a maintenance mechanic role.

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average maintenance mechanic salary

Would you like to know what a maintenance mechanic earns? Where the highest salaries are paid for a maintenance mechanic? Then check out this maintenance mechanic salary page and find out all about the salary of a maintenance mechanic in the USA.

male wearing a white hat working with tools on a production site
male wearing a white hat working with tools on a production site
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types of maintenance mechanics

Maintenance mechanics often work in apartment buildings or factories. You'll be responsible for everything from electrical and carpentry systems to HVAC units and insulation. The industry you decide to operate out of determines where you'll work and what you'll work on. For example, maintenance mechanics in the aviation industry repair and service aircraft systems and components. These components include turbine engines, hydraulic systems, environmental systems, instrumentation and piston engines.

Companies hire maintenance mechanics in such fields as:

  • electronics
  • manufacturing
  • energy
  • construction
  • aviation

You can effectively control where you'll work and the type of industry you'll operate out of. If you'd prefer a less complex job, consider a job as a maintenance mechanic in an apartment building. The type of work that occurs in the manufacturing, electronics, and aviation industries usually requires a considerable amount of training and education.

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working as a maintenance mechanic

Maintenance mechanics complete a wide range of unique tasks throughout the day, which makes for a dynamic and ever-changing work environment. Find out what it's like to work as a maintenance mechanic.

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maintenance mechanic skills and education

Have you made the decision to pursue a career as a maintenance mechanic? If so, the first step in this process involves earning a high school diploma or GED. Next, take some time to think about the type of work you enjoy doing. Maintenance mechanics have the opportunity to work in many different fields. If you've shown an interest in aviation or vehicles, enter a degree program that improves your mechanical skills in this niche.

Job requirements often vary from employer to employer. For example, some employers want maintenance mechanics to obtain a two-year associate degree in industrial mechanics before applying. Are you thinking of entering the auto industry? Earn a bachelor's degree in automotive technology to enhance your skill set and make your resume more appealing to potential employers.

The most effective way to land a job as a maintenance mechanic is to obtain on-the-job experience. Your skills invariably improve when you practice them on a daily basis. It's possible for employers to require an apprenticeship as well, which means working under the supervision of someone with more talent and experience.

To advance in your career, consider seeking more training and certifications. For example, the National Center for Construction Education & Research offers an Industrial Maintenance Mechanic certification. This certification program covers the concepts you need to know to safely install, repair and maintain more advanced machinery. Keep in mind that state licensing is often a prerequisite for maintenance mechanics who wish to work on plumbing or electrical systems. Many brands of machinery, appliances and vehicles have specialized training opportunities for the maintenance and repair of their products.

skills and competencies

Maintenance mechanics need extensive technical and problem-solving skills to garner success while on the job. Good maintenance mechanics know how to navigate multi-pronged issues and tackle them efficiently. This job requires identifying the source of mechanical breakdowns and malfunctions in hours.

You'll need to know how to use modern power tools and read schematics. Make sure you're able to follow instructions from a supervisor. All maintenance mechanics need to have a thorough understanding of the mechanical systems they're set to work on. Keep in mind that different companies and industries have different qualifications. If you're going to work with a building maintenance team, expect to obtain an HVAC certification before you land the job.

The physical requirements that maintenance mechanics adhere to are usually demanding. Along with spending long hours on your feet, you'll often get in uncomfortable positions and move heavy pieces of equipment. Even the tools maintenance mechanics use are typically heavy. Having steady hands is essential to avoid causing additional damage to sensitive components and machines.

Make sure you also have some basic computer skills. Even as a maintenance mechanic, using technology is an everyday occurrence. You'll send emails, make calls on a smartphone and input data into computer software programs. Many companies are currently using CMMS software to bolster efficiency. These systems recommend ways to improve efficiency, track performance and streamline workflows. It's highly recommended that you have knowledge of how to use this type of software.

 

male worker in a production environment looking away
male worker in a production environment looking away
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FAQs about working as a maintenance mechanic

Here you will find answers to the most frequently asked questions about maintenance mechanics.

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