How to Become a Maintenance Technician

Quick Answer: To become a maintenance technician, complete a training program at a trade school or community college (6-18 months for a certificate or associate degree), then earn key certifications like EPA 608 and OSHA safety credentials. Many employers also offer on-the-job training. No college degree is required, and most programs can be completed within 6-12 months.

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Maintenance Technician Programs and Pay by State

• 1,175schools in our directory list this program
• 54states with at least one school
• District of Columbiahighest state median pay ($60,310)
• Californiamost jobs (143,060 employed)

States are sorted by how many schools list this program. Pick a state to compare its schools, or request information from the programs listed below.

State	Schools	Median pay	Pay range (10th-90th pct.)	Jobs
California	99	$57,000	$38,810 - $82,710	143,060
Texas	69	$46,670	$30,950 - $74,220	140,580
Ohio	68	$53,420	$35,320 - $76,270	64,770
Pennsylvania	56	$49,290	$34,960 - $75,220	55,590
North Carolina	53	$47,910	$33,630 - $70,640	43,440
Florida	51	$46,060	$34,200 - $67,680	111,530
Illinois	49	$56,720	$36,120 - $80,740	66,600
Michigan	46	$47,580	$35,050 - $70,570	39,490
New York	46	$57,790	$37,010 - $83,570	119,650
Tennessee	42	$47,240	$33,810 - $68,990	35,790
Georgia	32	$47,680	$33,920 - $72,480	48,430
Washington	30	$59,160	$41,760 - $83,930	32,450
Arizona	27	$47,620	$35,810 - $76,360	39,000
Alabama	26	$43,630	$29,070 - $63,810	16,660
Missouri	26	$48,370	$34,050 - $75,620	31,180
Virginia	25	$49,470	$34,640 - $77,260	34,540
Kentucky	24	$46,810	$30,470 - $75,740	22,190
Minnesota	24	$59,200	$38,630 - $79,040	29,660
Oklahoma	24	$42,750	$29,380 - $65,940	18,670
Arkansas	23	$43,400	$29,140 - $63,130	12,410
Massachusetts	22	$58,320	$38,750 - $80,190	29,830
New Jersey	21	$54,810	$37,500 - $81,190	37,350
Wisconsin	20	$55,810	$35,870 - $75,910	30,880
Louisiana	17	$43,960	$28,110 - $75,880	21,490
South Carolina	17	$47,880	$32,950 - $74,530	28,020
Kansas	16	$47,210	$33,570 - $66,830	12,730
Mississippi	16	$44,350	$28,570 - $70,110	14,550
Utah	16	$50,450	$35,520 - $77,060	16,090
Iowa	15	$52,160	$36,570 - $74,490	16,500
Colorado	14	$51,280	$38,700 - $76,150	22,960
Indiana	14	$49,890	$35,170 - $75,720	34,480
Oregon	14	$54,350	$38,630 - $78,480	16,160
Maryland	13	$51,490	$36,890 - $75,740	23,730
New Mexico	13	$45,760	$30,920 - $71,380	9,320
West Virginia	10	$38,890	$28,170 - $68,240	8,060
Connecticut	8	$57,620	$38,460 - $82,090	11,700
Idaho	7	$48,190	$35,830 - $75,870	8,200
Maine	7	$49,430	$37,440 - $75,570	5,820
Nebraska	7	$50,700	$36,240 - $69,210	9,850
New Hampshire	7	$52,830	$37,620 - $74,910	5,780
Nevada	6	$52,360	$36,170 - $80,600	16,520
South Dakota	6	$48,100	$37,340 - $62,720	3,450
Montana	5	$46,870	$34,790 - $72,300	5,420
North Dakota	4	$49,840	$36,280 - $68,450	3,300
Rhode Island	4	$50,900	$36,920 - $75,900	4,500
Wyoming	4	$47,900	$31,070 - $80,100	3,920
Alaska	3	$60,270	$38,260 - $90,900	4,590
Delaware	3	$50,150	$36,510 - $78,380	3,310
District of Columbia	2	$60,310	$42,100 - $84,390	4,860
Hawaii	1	$57,960	$37,930 - $80,620	8,030
Vermont	1	$55,510	$42,180 - $74,940	2,610

Pay is for the Maintenance and Repair Workers, General occupation and varies by employer, experience and location. School counts are institutions that report this program to the U.S. Department of Education; program length and format differ by school.

Pay and jobs: BLS OEWS, May 2025

Schools: IPEDS 2024

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

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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: Check certifying organization for current pricing

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: Check OSHA for current pricing
• Valid for life (no renewal)

OSHA 30-Hour:

• Supervisory-level safety training
• More comprehensive coverage
• Cost: Check OSHA for current pricing
• 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)

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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:

1. EPA 608 Universal - Essential for HVAC work
2. OSHA 10-Hour - Required by many employers
3. NATE or HVAC Excellence - For HVAC specialization
4. 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

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Training programs and education options

Program types comparison

Program Type	Duration	Best For
Certificate	6-12 months	Quick entry
Associate Degree	2 years	Career advancement
Apprenticeship	1-4 years	Comprehensive skills
Employer Training	Varies	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 Individual outcomes vary.

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

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Program costs

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Maintenance Technician salary and job outlook

Salary by Experience Level

Job Outlook

Demand is driven by building maintenance needs, equipment complexity, and retirement of experienced workers.

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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
Lead Maintenance Technician	3-5 years experience
Maintenance Supervisor	Leadership experience
Facilities Manager	Degree or extensive experience
Plant Maintenance Manager	Industrial experience + degree
Director of Facilities	Bachelor’s + management

Related career transitions

• HVAC Technician: Specialized focus, higher pay
• Industrial Electrician: Electrical specialization
• Facilities Engineer: Requires engineering degree
• Building Inspector: Different career path

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Pros and challenges of this career

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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?

Based on IPEDS-reported tuition data, the cost of maintenance technician training depends on school type. Public colleges charge a median of $5,071 per year. Private nonprofit schools charge a median of $40,025 per year. Private for-profit schools charge a median of $16,757 per year. Actual costs vary by program length and residency. Individual outcomes vary.

Is maintenance technician a good career choice?

Maintenance technology offers stable employment with one of the highest numbers of annual job openings of any occupation. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2025), the median annual salary for maintenance and repair workers, general is $49,590. Entry-level positions (10th percentile) start around $35,350, and top earners (90th percentile) make $77,180 or more. Individual outcomes vary. 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?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2025), the median annual salary for maintenance and repair workers, general is $49,590. Entry-level positions (10th percentile) start around $35,350, and top earners (90th percentile) make $77,180 or more. Individual outcomes vary.

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.

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How to get started today

Ready to begin your maintenance technician career? Follow these steps:

1. Research Programs: Use the search tool below to find maintenance technician training programs in your area
2. Compare Options: Consider certificate vs. associate degree based on your goals
3. Check Prerequisites: Verify program requirements
4. Plan Certifications: Budget for EPA 608 and OSHA training
5. Apply and Enroll: Start your training program

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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