What does a maintenance worker do?

Maintenance workers are skilled in a variety of areas and perform many different types of maintenance and repair tasks. They maintain and repair electrical, plumbing, heating, and air-conditioning systems and related equipment. They repair drywall, windows, roofs, doors, woodwork, floors, and many other parts of structures. They also maintain and repair a variety of equipment. They investigate and diagnose problems and decide the most efficient way to repair them. Maintenance workers also carry out maintenance tasks that are routine and preventative to make run systems and machines operate correctly and make sure the building is in satisfactory condition.

What kind of training does a maintenance worker need?

Maintenance workers typically need at least a high school diploma. Most learn their skills through informal on the job training. Many maintenance workers begin as helpers to other workers and perform simple tasks such as replacing light bulbs and fixing faucets. They move on to more advanced duties as they gain the necessary skills and experience. On the job training often takes several months to become fully qualified. Most employers also provide technical education to enable maintenance workers to gain the necessary knowledge to perform a variety of tasks such as painting, roofing, electrical, and plumbing repairs. Some states require maintenance workers to become licensed in a particular area. Many maintenance workers gain professional certification from the International Management Institute to remain competitive in the field. Certification requirements typically include minimum training and experience and passing a written examination.

What are the prospects for a career as a maintenance worker?

Employment of maintenance workers is expected to grow as fast as average for all professions, increasing 11% from 2008 to 2018 (1). The growing population and increase in structures needed maintenance and repair will drive job growth.

Job prospects should be good especially for maintenance workers with extensive experience. Many job openings will stem from the need to replace maintenance workers that retire, transfer, or leave the field for other reasons.

How much do maintenance workers make?

As of March 2010, the middle 50% of maintenance workers earn annual salaries between $27,783 and $36,886. The top 10% earn annual salaries of more than $41,165 (2).

A career as a maintenance worker is a great choice for people with a strong interest in performing a variety of maintenance and repair tasks for a variety of structures. Maintenance workers must have a solid understanding of many different types of maintenance and repair tasks. Technical and mechanical aptitude, physical stamina, manual dexterity, and good mathematical abilities are essential characteristics. Maintenance workers must have excellent problem solving abilities and be able to effectively work independently without direct supervision.