How much does a maintenance worker make?

In the U.S., workers with more experience, useful skills, or a license or certificate for a specialty may earn more. Pay can also vary by employer and industry, location, how difficult the job is, and extra pay for night, weekend, or overtime shifts.

Perform work involving the skills of two or more maintenance or craft occupations to keep machines, mechanical equipment, or the structure of a building in repair. Duties may involve pipe fitting; HVAC maintenance; insulating; welding; machining; carpentry; repairing electrical or mechanical equipment; installing, aligning, and balancing new equipment; and repairing buildings, floors, or stairs. Excludes “Facilities Managers” (11-3013) and “Maintenance Workers, Machinery” (49-9043).

What's a typical day like?

A worker inspects a building or machine, then uses tools to fix problems such as a leaky faucet. They may plan repairs, get parts, record the work, or call a specialist for harder jobs.

In the U.S., most start after high school or an equivalent, then learn beside experienced workers; trade classes or an apprenticeship can help. Some complex electrical or plumbing jobs may require a license, with rules varying by state and locality.

Vocational school or a few years' experience (preparation level 3 of 5)

Good for people who like building and doing and keeping things organized.

A “general” U.S. maintenance worker may use skills from several trades, such as pipe fitting, heating and cooling, welding, and carpentry.