Maintenance Mechanic
We're looking for people who: |
have a knack for keeping equipment in good working order. |
What you will do:
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You will keep machines and mechanical equipment in good repair.
Some specific tasks you will be asked to complete include:
- Align and balance new equipment after it is installed
- Clean and lubricate all working parts of machines, including shafts, bearings, and gears
- Diagnose and correct mechanical problems
- Estimate repair costs if outside help is required to make repairs
- Order parts for repairs and maintain records of repair costs
- Regularly inspect mechanical systems to prevent problems from occurring
- Assemble and install wiring, pipe systems, and plumbing, and repair when necessary
- Maintain exterior of buildings, including painting and repairs
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Knowledge required for this job: |
- Good working understanding of machinery
- Understanding building construction and repair
- Recognition of the need for public safety and understanding the connection between proper equipment maintenance and a safe working environment
- Understanding blue prints and other design documents and models
- Knowing how engineering and technology principles help solve problems
- Knowing the correct way to use language in writing and speaking
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Skills required for this job: |
- Ability to troubleshoot maintenance problems
- Capable of performing routine maintenance on equipment and other machinery
- Ability to repair machines and systems such as wiring and plumbing
- Able to pay full attention to what people say
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What education you need: |
Most maintenance mechanics have a high school degree or lower.
Over one-half (57.7%) of people ages 25-44 who currently hold this kind of job have a high school degree or lower. An additional 33.8% have had some college experience. Only 8.5% have a bachelor's degree or higher. |
Salary: |
Nationally, people working in this job earn between $9.20 and $24.44 an hour.
In Maryland, the pay scale ranges from $9.55 - $25.44 an hour. (Occupational Employment Statistics (OES) 2007) |
Future job prospects |
Nationally, maintenance mechanics' jobs are expected to increase from 1,331,700 positions in 2004 to 1,533,500 in 2014. (+15%)
In Maryland, jobs numbers are expected to increase as well, with 24,430 positions in 2004 and 28,480 in 2014. (+17%) |
According to the Maryland Commission on Higher Education, training for this career is available through these resources:
The Maryland Career Clusters help students prepare for their future education and careers while they are in high school. The job of Maintenance Mechanic is part of the Manufacturing, Engineering, and Technology Career Cluster, in the core area of Production Support.
You can explore other careers in the Manufacturing, Engineering, and Technology Career Cluster here.
