Manufacturing
Industrial Maintenance Technician
Industrial maintenance technicians are practical, skilled problem solvers who enjoy keeping machinery and factory equipment running smoothly. This role fits reliable, detail-oriented people who like technical work, troubleshooting, and preventing breakdowns. You should be safety-conscious and good with tools. No college degree is needed. It’s an ideal choice for someone seeking stable, well-paid work in manufacturing with long-term security.
Median wage
$31.02/hr
Physical demands
medium
Drug test
Yes
National wages & job outlook
National figures for Industrial Machinery Mechanics, shown as published by the source below.
Entry (10th–25th pct)
$22.17–$26.45/hr
Median
$31.02/hr
Experienced (75th–90th pct)
$37.88–$45.76/hr
Projected openings / year
45,700
+16% growth, 2024–2034
Wage data: 2025. National figures; local pay varies.
Source: CareerOneStop (careeronestop.org), sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment & Training Administration (DOLETA), and the Minnesota Department of Employment & Economic Development (DEED).
Starting requirements
- High school diploma or GED
- Basic mechanical and electrical skills
- Good physical condition for lifting and climbing
- Valid driver’s license (sometimes)
- Ability to pass a drug test
- Strong safety attitude and willingness to get certified
Training structure
Training often begins on the job or through 6 to 24 month technical programs. You learn preventive maintenance, troubleshooting, welding, hydraulics, and electrical systems. Many employers offer paid apprenticeships or in-house training. Certifications in specific equipment help you advance quickly.
Top credentials
- NIMS Industrial Maintenance
- MSSC Certified Production Technician
- OSHA 30
- PLC Certification
Licenses & certifications
Licenses are state-specific and certifications vary by specialty. Look up the exact ones for this path in your state.
Open the license & certification finderAdvancement path
Entry: Industrial maintenance technician or helper
Mid-Level: Senior technician or specialist (electrical, mechanical)
Advanced: Maintenance supervisor, planner, or reliability manager
Experience and certifications can support steady raises and leadership roles in essential industries.
Typical employers
Manufacturers, food and beverage plants, distribution centers
A day in the life
You start by checking equipment and work orders. Your day includes inspecting machines, fixing breakdowns, performing preventive maintenance, and upgrading systems in a factory setting. The work mixes mechanical, electrical, and troubleshooting tasks in a team environment. You finish knowing you helped keep production running safely and efficiently.