Industrial Maintenance: A Definitive Guide
Industrial maintenance is a plan of action that businesses take to keep their equipment functioning for as long as possible. Learn more about what's involved here!
Behind the manufacturing lines, power plants and automated systems that keep industries running are skilled industrial maintenance technicians. These professionals keep essential equipment operating safely and efficiently.
Universal Technical Institute (UTI) offers an Industrial Maintenance Technician program where students can learn the fundamentals of industrial maintenance through hands-on coursework that covers mechanical systems, electrical theory and preventive maintenance.1
If you’re detail-oriented, enjoy working with your hands and like solving problems, industrial maintenance could be a fulfilling path. Let’s explore what this role involves, what kind of training it requires, and whether pursuing a maintenance technician career path is a good fit for you.
What Is an Industrial Maintenance Technician?
Industrial maintenance technicians repair, maintain and monitor the machinery that keeps industrial and energy systems functioning. Their daily work helps ensure smooth production and prevents costly downtime.
Technicians often service mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic and electrical systems across industries such as manufacturing, power generation, and oil and gas. They also follow strict maintenance schedules and safety standards developed by engineers and plant managers.
Industrial maintenance technician job description
Industrial maintenance techs complete the following tasks on any given day:
- Adhere to technical manuals when servicing equipment.
- Repair and replace faulty components.
- Run tests to ensure proper operation.
- Run tests on malfunctioning equipment to determine the best course of repair.
- Use diagnostic instruments to detect issues.
- Clean, lubricate and calibrate equipment to maximize efficiency.
Their work combines hands-on skill with analytical thinking, a balance that attracts those who enjoy both mechanics and technology.
Reasons to Consider an Industrial Maintenance Career
Growing demand for skilled technicians
Industrial maintenance technician skills are in demand. The advancement of technology continues to increase the amount of automated manufacturing and energy equipment. Automated equipment requires routine maintenance and careful attention, creating a demand for the specialized skill set industrial technicians carry.
In fact, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the demand for industrial maintenance technicians is growing — employment is projected to grow 13% from 2024 to 2034.64
Opportunities to work hands-on
Industrial maintenance is ideal for people who like working on their feet rather than behind a desk. Whether repairing turbines, calibrating sensors or testing motors, technicians get to see the direct results of their work.
Creative problem-solving encouraged
Each day in industrial maintenance brings new challenges. Technicians often use logic and creativity to diagnose system failures, think through repair options and implement safe, effective solutions.
Attention to detail and communication valued
Industrial systems are complex and precise. One loose wire or misaligned sensor can affect an entire process. Strong communication is also key, since technicians often collaborate with engineers, supervisors and operators to ensure safe, coordinated repairs.
Benefits of a proactive work approach
Industrial maintenance professionals are trained to anticipate potential problems before they cause downtime. This proactive mindset is valued by employers and contributes to safer, more efficient operations.
Maximizing efficiency in equipment and processes
Ultimately, maintenance technicians help organizations save time and resources by improving the performance and lifespan of their machinery — a crucial advantage in today’s competitive industries.
How Do You Become an Industrial Maintenance Technician?
While some technicians learn on the job after obtaining a high school diploma or equivalent, others attend a formal industrial maintenance technician training program before beginning their career.
A training program familiarizes students with modern computer diagnostic equipment and teaches them industry-standard safety, electrical theory and more.
Universal Technical Institute’s (UTI) Industrial Maintenance Technician program was created as a direct response to feedback from industry leaders so that students can develop relevant skill sets. Course topics include33:
- Energy Industry Fundamentals and Safety Compliance
- Math, OSHA, and First Aid
- Applied Physics and Precision Measuring
- DC and AC Basic Electricity
- Advanced Electrical Theory
- Industrial Heating/Cooling, Compression Systems
- Materials Processing, Welding and Diesel
- Steam and Gas Turbines, Boiler Operations and Valves
The curriculum builds students’ knowledge from the ground up, so even if industrial maintenance is completely new to you, you can enroll with confidence!
How long does industrial maintenance technician training take?
The length of training depends on the path taken to get there. Candidates with a high school diploma or equivalent typically undergo at least one year of on-the-job training. Others may embark on a longer apprenticeship program.
At Universal Technical Institute, students can prepare for this field in less than a year. The Industrial Maintenance Technician (IMT) program, available at our Canton, Michigan, campus, takes approximately seven months to complete and helps students develop skills in mechanical systems, automation and maintenance procedures.
For those interested in expanding their skill set to include electrical systems, Electrical & Industrial Maintenance Technology (EIMT) training is available at additional campuses, including Exton, Pennsylvania; Mooresville, North Carolina; Rancho Cucamonga, California; and in Texas at Houston, Dallas/Forth Worth and San Antonio.* This program adds electrical theory and wiring fundamentals to mechanical maintenance training, providing a broader foundation for future career paths.130
*VA benefits may not be available at all locations.
Industrial Maintenance Career Outlook
According to the BLS, the median annual salary for industrial maintenance technicians in the United States was $63,760 in May 2024.60 That means half of the industrial maintenance technicians earned more and half earned less. Keep in mind that salary depends on several factors, including experience, employer, demand and cost of living in the area.
With that said, let’s look at some of the career paths industrial technicians can pursue.
Industrial technician job opportunities
Entry-level industrial technicians may start in one of the following roles:
- Industrial maintenance technicians diagnose issues, evaluate performance, replace defective parts, conduct routine cleaning and perform tests on damaged parts to determine the appropriate repairs.
- Installation technicians install and repair machines and their related systems. They also assist engineers in solving efficiency issues related to installation or floor layout.
- Plant technicians maintain machinery in power plants, oil refineries and chemical plants. This entry-level position can lay a valuable foundation for those interested in eventually becoming a powerplant operator.
Our grads are prepared to pursue entry-level roles. As with any industry, over time technicians may be able to advance in their careers with experience and hard work. Some advanced roles might include:
- Powerplant operators oversee power-generating and distribution systems. They monitor voltage, assess equipment efficiency and regulate power flow.
- Facilities managers manage an organization's equipment, supplies, buildings and overall grounds. They’re in charge of project planning, maintenance and maximizing resources.
- Major component mechanics maintain industrial machinery, working closely with component manufacturers to ensure each piece of equipment meets specified standards. They are often familiar with stationary engineering as well.
Industrial Maintenance Career FAQ
What skills are required for an industrial maintenance technician?
In addition to critical thinking skills, industrial maintenance technicians should also have manual dexterity, technical aptitude and troubleshooting skills. Attending a training program before pursuing an industrial maintenance career can help you sharpen these skills.
What is the difference between industrial maintenance and millwright?
Industrial maintenance technicians primarily perform routine maintenance on machinery to maximize efficiency while millwrights install, disassemble and transfer machinery. They also perform complex repairs that require component replacement.
How much do industrial maintenance technicians earn?
As of May 2024, the median annual salary for industrial maintenance technicians in the United States was $63,760, according to the BLS.60
Are there opportunities for career advancement in industrial maintenance?
Yes. With additional training and experience, technicians can move into supervisory, engineering support or management roles — or specialize in high-tech fields like automation and energy systems.
How do I get started with UTI’s Industrial Maintenance Technician program?
You can begin by requesting more information from UTI’s Industrial Maintenance Technician program page. An Admissions Representative can help you explore financial aid options, training timelines, and career outcomes.10
Study Industrial Maintenance at UTI
Although industrial maintenance isn’t as well-known as the other skilled-trade professions, it is a growing field with exciting opportunities.
Interested in learning more about how an industrial maintenance career path could align with your goals? Request more info today, and one of our Admissions Representatives will reach out to answer any questions.
Ready to get started? Apply today!
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1 ) UTI is an educational institution and cannot guarantee employment or salary.
2 ) For program outcome information and other disclosures, visit www.uti.edu/disclosures.
10 ) Financial aid, scholarships and grants are available to those who qualify. Awards vary due to specific conditions, criteria and state.
33 ) Courses vary by campus. For details, contact the program representative at the campus you are interested in attending.
60 ) The Energy Technology and Industrial Maintenance Technician programs prepare graduates for entry-level positions using the provided training, primarily as wind power technicians or industrial maintenance technicians. Estimated annual salary is for Industrial Machinery Mechanics as published in the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ May 2024 Occupational Employment and Wages. Entry-level salaries are lower for graduates. UTI is an educational institution and cannot guarantee employment or salary. Graduates’ achievements vary. Individual circumstances and wages depend on economic factors, personal credentials, work experience, industry certifications, the location of the employer, and their compensation programs. Some graduates get jobs within their field of study in positions other than as wind power technicians and industrial maintenance technicians, such as installation technicians, field service technicians, and plant technicians. Salary information for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts: The average annual entry-level salary for persons employed as Industrial Machinery Mechanics (49-9041) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts is $52,020 (Massachusetts Labor and Workforce Development, May 2023 data https://lmi.dua.eol.mass.gov/lmi/OccupationalEmploymentAndWageAllIndustries/OEWResult?A=01&GA=000025&OG=499041&Dopt=TEXT). Salary information for North Carolina: The U.S. Department of Labor estimates the hourly median wage for skilled wind power technicians and industrial maintenance technicians in North Carolina is $29.26 (Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, May 2024 Occupational Employment and Wages, Industrial Machinery Mechanics). The Bureau of Labor Statistics does not publish entry-level salary data. However, the 25th and 10th percentile of hourly earnings in North Carolina are $23.24 and $19.61, respectively.
64 ) The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that total employment will increase 17.2% for industrial machinery mechanics (49-9041) between 2023 and 2033. See Table 1.2 Occupational projections, 2023–33, and worker characteristics, 2023, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, www.bls.gov, viewed November 4, 2024. UTI is an educational institution and cannot guarantee employment or salary. For program outcome information and other disclosures, visit www.uti.edu/disclosures.
77 ) UTI is an educational institution and cannot guarantee employment or salary. UTI prepares graduates for entry-level careers using the provided training. UTI graduates’ achievements may vary. Some UTI graduates get jobs within their field of study in positions other than those listed.
130 ) UTI’s electrical programs do not prepare graduates for employment as electricians, and graduates will not be eligible for certification as an electrician without additional training and meeting state licensing requirements. These programs prepare graduates for entry-level careers using the provided training. Possible career paths, by program, may include: Electrical, Electronics, & Industrial Technology – electrician’s assistant, security + access control systems technician; Electrical, Robotics + Automation Technology – control systems technician, robotics & automation technician; Electrical, Wind Turbine Technology – field service technician, wind turbine technician; Electrical, Industrial Maintenance Technology – maintenance technician, field service technician. UTI is an educational institution and cannot guarantee employment or salary.
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