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How to Become a Maintenance Technician
Quick answer: how to become a Maintenance Technician
Complete a maintenance technician training program (6-18 months for certificate or associate degree), earn relevant certifications (EPA 608, OSHA), and apply for positions in facilities, manufacturing, or property management. Most maintenance technicians can start working within 6-12 months, with many employers also offering on-the-job training.
What does a Maintenance Technician do?
Maintenance technicians (also called facilities technicians, building maintenance workers, or general maintenance mechanics) repair and maintain machinery, mechanical equipment, and building systems. They troubleshoot problems, perform preventive maintenance, and ensure equipment operates safely and efficiently.
Primary Responsibilities
Equipment Repair and Maintenance:
- Diagnose and repair mechanical equipment
- Troubleshoot electrical systems and components
- Repair plumbing fixtures and piping
- Maintain HVAC systems and controls
- Service production machinery
- Replace worn parts and components
- Lubricate and adjust equipment
Preventive Maintenance:
- Perform scheduled equipment inspections
- Complete preventive maintenance checklists
- Monitor equipment performance and conditions
- Replace filters, belts, and consumables
- Maintain maintenance logs and records
- Predict and prevent equipment failures
Building Systems:
- Repair drywall, flooring, and ceilings
- Maintain doors, windows, and locks
- Paint and perform finish work
- Address roofing and exterior issues
- Maintain landscaping and grounds
- Respond to tenant or occupant requests
Safety and Compliance:
- Follow lockout/tagout procedures
- Maintain safety equipment
- Ensure code compliance
- Respond to emergency situations
- Document safety inspections
- Report hazardous conditions
Work Environment
Maintenance technicians work in various settings:
- Manufacturing plants and factories
- Commercial office buildings
- Apartment complexes and residential properties
- Hospitals and healthcare facilities
- Schools and universities
- Hotels and hospitality properties
- Government buildings and military bases
- Warehouses and distribution centers
Certification types for Maintenance technicians
While not always required, certifications demonstrate competence and improve job prospects.
EPA Section 608 Certification
Issuing Organization: Environmental Protection Agency
Types:
- Type I: Small appliances (under 5 lbs refrigerant)
- Type II: High-pressure equipment (most AC units)
- Type III: Low-pressure equipment (chillers)
- Universal: All equipment types
Requirements:
- Pass EPA-approved exam
- No formal training required
- Open-book or closed-book depending on proctor
Cost: $20-$150 for exam
Why It Matters: Required by law to handle refrigerants
OSHA Safety Certifications
OSHA 10-Hour (General Industry or Construction):
- Basic safety awareness
- Entry-level requirement for many employers
- Cost: $25-$90
- Valid for life (no renewal)
OSHA 30-Hour:
- Supervisory-level safety training
- More comprehensive coverage
- Cost: $90-$200
- Preferred for lead positions
HVAC Certifications
NATE Certification:
- North American Technician Excellence
- Industry-recognized HVAC credential
- Specialty areas available
- Requires experience and exam
HVAC Excellence:
- Multiple certification levels
- Heat pump, electrical, and refrigeration specialties
- Exam-based certification
Building Operator Certification (BOC)
Levels:
- Level I: Building systems maintenance
- Level II: Equipment troubleshooting
Focus: Energy efficiency and building operations
Requirements: Training course plus exam
Manufacturer Certifications
Many equipment manufacturers offer certifications:
- Carrier, Trane, Lennox (HVAC)
- Kohler, Moen (plumbing)
- Siemens, Honeywell (building controls)
Step-by-step path to becoming a Maintenance Technician
Step 1: meet basic requirements
Education: High school diploma or GED required
Recommended Preparation:
- Shop, industrial arts, or technical education classes
- Basic electrical and mechanical courses
- Math (algebra, geometry)
- Blueprint reading if available
Physical Requirements:
- Lift 50+ pounds regularly
- Climb ladders and work at heights
- Work in confined spaces
- Stand for extended periods
- Manual dexterity for detailed work
Step 2: complete training
Certificate Programs (6-12 months)
- Focus on multiple building systems
- Hands-on practical training
- Quick entry to employment
- Often includes internship
Associate Degree (2 years)
- More comprehensive education
- Includes electrical, HVAC, plumbing
- Better advancement opportunities
- May include apprenticeship
Apprenticeship Programs (1-4 years)
- Earn while you learn
- Supervised on-the-job training
- May combine with classroom instruction
- Union or employer-sponsored
On-the-Job Training
- Many employers train entry-level workers
- Start as helper or assistant
- Progress to independent work
- Common path in property management
Core Curriculum:
- Electrical fundamentals and wiring
- HVAC systems and troubleshooting
- Plumbing systems and repair
- Mechanical systems and machinery
- Building automation and controls
- Blueprint and schematic reading
- Welding and fabrication basics
- Safety procedures and compliance
- Preventive maintenance planning
Step 3: gain experience
Build experience through:
- Entry-level maintenance positions
- Helper roles with experienced technicians
- Internships during training
- Related trades (HVAC, electrical, plumbing)
- Property management assistant roles
Step 4: obtain certifications
Prioritize certifications based on your focus:
- EPA 608 Universal – Essential for HVAC work
- OSHA 10-Hour – Required by many employers
- NATE or HVAC Excellence – For HVAC specialization
- Building Operator Certification – For facilities management
Step 5: begin your career
Entry-Level Positions:
- Maintenance technician I/II
- Facilities maintenance worker
- Building maintenance helper
- Property maintenance technician
- Industrial maintenance trainee
Common Employers:
- Property management companies
- Manufacturing plants
- Hospital systems
- School districts
- Hotel chains
- Corporate facilities departments
Training programs and education options
Program types comparison
| Program Type | Duration | Cost Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Certificate | 6-12 months | $2,000-$10,000 | Quick entry |
| Associate Degree | 2 years | $8,000-$25,000 | Career advancement |
| Apprenticeship | 1-4 years | Paid training | Comprehensive skills |
| Employer Training | Varies | Free (with employment) | Career changers |
What to look for in a program
Hands-On Training: Extensive lab time with real equipment
Multi-Trade Coverage: Electrical, HVAC, plumbing, and mechanical
Certification Prep: EPA 608 and OSHA included
Industry Connections: Relationships with local employers
Job Placement: Career services and employer networking
Online vs. in-person training
Online Programs:
- Theory and fundamentals
- Flexible scheduling
- Must supplement with hands-on practice
- Good for working adults
In-Person Programs:
- Direct equipment practice
- Immediate feedback from instructors
- Better skill development
- Preferred by employers
Cost breakdown: Maintenance Technician training
Tuition and Fees
| Program Type | Tuition Range | Additional Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Certificate | $2,000-$10,000 | $200-$500 |
| Community College | $4,000-$12,000 | $300-$600 |
| Technical School | $8,000-$20,000 | $400-$800 |
| Associate Degree | $8,000-$25,000 | $500-$1,000 |
Additional Expenses
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Work boots (steel-toe) | $80-$150 |
| Tool set (basic) | $200-$500 |
| Multimeter | $50-$150 |
| Safety glasses and gloves | $30-$60 |
| EPA 608 exam | $20-$150 |
| OSHA 10-Hour training | $25-$90 |
| Textbooks | $100-$300 |
| Background check | $30-$75 |
Financial aid options
- Workforce Development: WIOA funding for skilled trades
- Employer Sponsorship: Many employers pay for training
- Apprenticeship Programs: Paid training with benefits
- Veterans Benefits: GI Bill covers approved programs
- Trade Union Scholarships: IBEW, UA, and other unions
Maintenance Technician salary and job outlook
National salary data
Salary by Experience Level
| Experience | Typical Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Entry-Level (0-1 year) | $30,000-$38,000 |
| Early Career (1-3 years) | $38,000-$45,000 |
| Mid-Career (4-7 years) | $45,000-$55,000 |
| Experienced (8+ years) | $55,000-$68,000 |
Salary by Industry
| Setting | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Manufacturing | $50,000-$62,000 |
| Hospitals and Healthcare | $48,000-$58,000 |
| Government Buildings | $46,000-$56,000 |
| Commercial Real Estate | $42,000-$52,000 |
| Residential Properties | $38,000-$48,000 |
Job Outlook
- Current Employment: 1,471,400 general maintenance workers nationwide
- Projected Growth (2022-2032): 4% (about as fast as average)
- Annual Job Openings: 165,100 positions
- Growth Factors: Building maintenance needs, equipment complexity, retirement of experienced workers
Salary by State
Career advancement opportunities
Specialization Options
Technical Specialties:
- HVAC technician
- Industrial electrician
- Plumbing specialist
- Controls and automation technician
- Refrigeration technician
Industry Focuses:
- Manufacturing maintenance
- Healthcare facilities
- Data center maintenance
- Commercial property management
- Industrial machinery
Advanced Certifications
| Certification | Focus | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Certified Maintenance & Reliability Technician (CMRT) | Industrial maintenance | Experience + exam |
| Building Operator Certification (BOC) | Facilities operations | Training + exam |
| Certified Facility Manager (CFM) | Facilities management | Education + experience |
| Master Technician (various trades) | Trade specialty | Advanced training + experience |
Career Paths
| Role | Additional Requirements | Salary Range |
|---|---|---|
| Lead Maintenance Technician | 3-5 years experience | $50,000-$65,000 |
| Maintenance Supervisor | Leadership experience | $55,000-$75,000 |
| Facilities Manager | Degree or extensive experience | $65,000-$90,000 |
| Plant Maintenance Manager | Industrial experience + degree | $75,000-$110,000 |
| Director of Facilities | Bachelor’s + management | $85,000-$130,000 |
Related career transitions
- HVAC Technician: Specialized focus, higher pay
- Industrial Electrician: Electrical specialization
- Facilities Engineer: Requires engineering degree
- Building Inspector: Different career path
Pros and challenges of this career
Benefits
- Massive job market (165,100 annual openings)
- Variety of work environments
- Hands-on problem-solving daily
- Multiple entry pathways
- Room for specialization and advancement
- Skills applicable to personal life
- Job security in all economic conditions
- Many employers offer benefits and stability
Challenges
- Physically demanding work
- Emergency and on-call situations
- Exposure to noise, heat, or hazards
- Shift work in some industries
- Working in uncomfortable conditions
- Keeping up with technology changes
- Entry-level pay is modest
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to become a maintenance technician?
Certificate programs take 6-12 months, while associate degrees take 2 years. Many employers also offer on-the-job training for entry-level workers, allowing you to start working immediately while learning.
How much does maintenance technician training cost?
Certificate programs typically cost $2,000-$10,000. Community college associate degrees range from $4,000-$12,000. Apprenticeships and employer training programs are often free or paid.
Is maintenance technician a good career choice?
Maintenance technology offers stable employment with 165,100 annual job openings - one of the highest of any occupation. While entry-level pay is modest ($45,440 median), advancement opportunities and job security make it a solid career choice.
What certifications do maintenance technicians need?
EPA Section 608 certification is required for handling refrigerants. OSHA 10-Hour is commonly required by employers. Additional certifications like NATE (HVAC) or BOC (building operations) improve job prospects.
Can I become a maintenance technician without a degree?
Yes, many maintenance technicians learn through on-the-job training, apprenticeships, or short certificate programs. Experience and certifications often matter more than formal degrees.
What skills do maintenance technicians need?
Essential skills include mechanical aptitude, electrical fundamentals, troubleshooting ability, physical fitness, attention to safety, problem-solving skills, and basic computer skills for building automation systems.
How much do maintenance technicians make per hour?
Based on national averages, maintenance technicians earn approximately $20-$25 per hour at the median level. Entry-level positions start around $14-$18 per hour, while experienced technicians in industrial settings can earn $28-$35 per hour.
What is the difference between maintenance technician and HVAC technician?
Maintenance technicians are generalists who handle multiple building systems (electrical, plumbing, HVAC, mechanical). HVAC technicians specialize specifically in heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems.
Do maintenance technicians work nights and weekends?
Depending on the setting, maintenance technicians may work various shifts. Manufacturing plants operate 24/7, while residential properties may require on-call availability for emergencies. Office buildings typically offer more regular hours.
What industries hire the most maintenance technicians?
The largest employers include manufacturing plants, commercial real estate, healthcare facilities, educational institutions, hotels, and government buildings. Nearly every industry needs maintenance staff.
Can maintenance technicians become self-employed?
While possible, most maintenance technicians work for employers. Self-employment is more common for specialized trades (HVAC, electrical, plumbing) that have separate licensing. Handyman services are an option for general maintenance skills.
How do I advance from technician to supervisor?
Gain 3-5 years of experience, develop leadership skills, pursue advanced certifications (CMRT, BOC), and express interest in supervisory roles. Some employers have formal advancement programs.
How to get started today
Ready to begin your maintenance technician career? Follow these steps:
- Research Programs: Use the search tool below to find maintenance technician training programs in your area
- Compare Options: Consider certificate vs. associate degree based on your goals
- Check Prerequisites: Verify program requirements
- Plan Certifications: Budget for EPA 608 and OSHA training
- Apply and Enroll: Start your training program
Additional Resources
Certification Organizations
- EPA: epa.gov/section608 – Section 608 certification information
- OSHA: osha.gov – Safety training and requirements
- NATE: natex.org – HVAC technician certification
- Building Operator Certification: theboc.info – Facilities certification
Professional Organizations
- BOMA International: Building Owners and Managers Association
- IFMA: International Facility Management Association
- AFE: Association for Facilities Engineering
Trade Unions
- IBEW: International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers
- UA: United Association (Plumbers and Pipefitters)
- SMWIA: Sheet Metal Workers International Association
Career Development
- Manufacturer Training: Equipment-specific certifications
- Continuing Education: Building systems and technology updates
- Trade Shows: Industry networking and education