A Guide to Industrial Maintenance Technician Certification

Industrial maintenance technicians are skilled problem-solvers. They have strong mechanical skills and understand how complex machines work. They often work in manufacturing or energy plants, repairing and maintaining automated equipment.  

These behind-the-scenes heroes have important shoes to fill. Many employers prefer certified industrial maintenance techs because it proves their training and ability.  

If you’re interested in this career path, keep reading. We’ll explain why industrial maintenance technician certifications matter, which ones to focus on first and how to prepare.  

Key Takeaways  

• Industrial maintenance technician certifications prove you can work efficiently and safely: Certifications prove you understand how to work by the book, diagnose problems accurately and maintain equipment without cutting corners. This is valuable in environments where safety, precision and uptime matter. 
• Many industrial maintenance credentials require hands-on skills: Credential exams often include performance-based assessments, so choosing a hands-on training program can help you prepare.  
• OSHA-10 is a common requirement in industrial settings: This certification is a foundational safety credential that many industrial maintenance employers require as it shows you understand basic workplace safety principles, an essential trait in environments where heavy machinery and high-voltage systems are common. 
• Some formal training programs can help you earn credentials while still in school: Certain formal training programs like the ones at Universal Technical Institute allow students to test for certifications, like NCCER or OSHA-10, during their education.  
• Certifications can help you specialize in specific areas: Once you’re in the field, additional certifications, such as those offered by NIMS in hydraulic systems, electrical controls or process systems, can help you develop a niche.  

Why Certifications Matter for Industrial Maintenance Technicians  

Certifications help show employers that you know how to work safely, follow industry standards and get the job done right. While not always required, certifications can help set you apart, especially in competitive industries that require techs to become certified.  

They can also help you:  

• Pursue more advanced roles  
• Build confidence in your skills  
• Stay current with new technology and safety standards  

Top Certifications for Industrial Maintenance Technicians  

Several certifications can support your career goals as a maintenance technician. Some focus on specific skills like safety or automation, while others cover a wide range of maintenance tasks. Here are a few we suggest focusing on first. 

Certified Maintenance & Reliability Technician (CMRT) – SMRP  

The CMRT is a certification offered by the Society for Maintenance & Reliability Professionals (SMRP). It measures the skills of technicians who perform preventive, predictive and corrective maintenance. The exam covers four main areas: maintenance practices, preventive and predictive maintenance, troubleshooting and analysis and corrective maintenance.  

This certification is a good fit for technicians who have hands-on training and want to show employers they have the technical skills needed. Many industries recognize the CMRT credential, including manufacturing and energy.  

How to earn this certification: Submit an online application, pay the exam fee and then pass a written exam. No prerequisites exist, but most candidates have hands-on maintenance experience or training before testing.  

National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) Industrial Maintenance Certifications  

NIMS offers industry-recognized certifications for maintenance technicians who work with manufacturing machines. These credentials show you know how to keep equipment running safely and efficiently. You can earn certifications in key areas such as:  

• Basic Hydraulic Systems  
• Basic Mechanical Systems  
• Basic Pneumatic Systems  
• Electronic Control Systems  
• Electrical Systems  
• Process Control Systems  

These certifications are a great way to show specialized skills and stand out in the field.  

How to earn this certification: Complete performance-based testing and pass a written exam for each module. Many candidates prepare with a training program that offers hands-on practice with the equipment in the assessments.  

OSHA 10 & OSHA 30 – Workplace Safety Training  

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) provides safety training that is important for anyone working in industrial settings.  

OSHA 10 is a 10-hour course covering basic safety. Many industrial maintenance technician training programs include an OSHA course to help students prepare for this important credential.  

OSHA 30 is a more advanced course for supervisors or workers handling higher-risk tasks and leading safety efforts. These are not maintenance-specific but commonly required or preferred by employers.  

How to earn this certification: Complete an authorized OSHA Outreach Training course online or in person. Certified instructors lead these courses. They conclude with a completion card issued by the U.S. Department of Labor.  

National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER)  

NCCER offers nationally recognized credentials for industrial maintenance mechanics that cover a wide range of skills.  

Topics include hydraulics, mechanical drives, pumps and piping systems, lubrication and basic electrical work. The assessment tests a technician’s ability to work safely and effectively in an industrial setting.  

Students enrolled in Universal Technical Institute's Electrical & Industrial Maintenance Technician training program, offered at our Exton and Mooresville campuses, get an opportunity to test for NCCER certification as part of their hands-on training.  

How to earn this certification: Complete NCCER-accredited training and pass both written and performance-based assessments. Training is often delivered through approved programs where students can work toward certification while building hands-on skills.  

Career Opportunities for Certified Industrial Maintenance Techs   

Once you complete hands-on training and earn industry-recognized certifications, you’ll be prepared to help keep machines, systems and entire facilities running smoothly. 

Industries like manufacturing, energy, electrical, food production and logistics need certified maintenance technicians. With the right training, you may qualify for jobs such as: ⁷⁷ 

• Industrial maintenance technician – Work on machines, motors and systems to keep production lines moving.  
• Installation technician – Set up new equipment and ensure it operates correctly.  
• Field service technician – Travel to different job sites to inspect, repair or help install industrial systems.  
• Plant technician – Maintain large-scale equipment within energy factories or power plants.  

As you gain experience and earn advanced industrial maintenance credentials, you can pursue more advanced roles, like:  

• Powerplant operator – Oversee the daily operations of systems that generate electricity.  
• Facilities manager – Oversee the operation and maintenance of buildings, machinery and staff.  
• Maintenance mechanic – Specialize in diagnosing and repairing complex mechanical issues.  
• Plant operator – Monitor systems and ensure safety and efficiency across large facilities.  
• Major component mechanic – Focus on the heavy-duty systems that power industrial operations.  

As industries rely more on automated systems and preventive maintenance, the need for trained professionals continues. 

Explore the futures you can pursue in this field with the Industrial Maintenance Tech Career Guide.  

FAQs 

What is an industrial maintenance technician certification? 

Industrial maintenance technician certifications are credentials that verify a technician’s ability to maintain, troubleshoot and repair complex machinery and systems in industrial settings. It often includes both written and performance-based assessments. 

Are industrial maintenance certifications required to get hired? 

No, industrial maintenance certifications are not required to get hired. However, some employers may prefer certifications as proof of skills, especially in high-risk or highly technical environments. 

Which certifications should I get first as an industrial maintenance tech? 

Industrial maintenance technicians should start with foundational safety certifications like OSHA 10 to prove they’re capable of working in industry settings.  

How long does it take to earn an industrial maintenance credential?

How long it takes to earn an industrial maintenance credential varies. Some credentials, like OSHA 10, can be earned in a few days, while others like the CMRT may take weeks to months depending on your training path and experience level. 

How can I prepare for industrial maintenance certification exams? 

Hands-on training, such as the Industrial Maintenance Technician program offered by Universal Technical Institute, is a great start. Study guides, practice exams and learning with experienced mentors can also help you prepare. 

Train To Become an Industrial Maintenance Technician at Universal Technical Institute   

Prepare to train hands-on, learning how to solve problems and keep essential industries running with Universal Technical Institute’s Industrial Maintenance Technician (IMT) program. In less than a year, you will get hands-on skills and safety training that can help you prepare for a career. You could even test for industrial maintenance technician certification after you graduate.¹ 

Request more information about IMT training and one of our Admissions Reps will reach out to chat through your interests and goals.