Maintenance and Repair Worker

Your Fit

Income

$49K

Preparation

Medium

Growth

3.6%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is a Maintenance and Repair Worker?

Maintenance and Repair Workers are skilled technicians who perform a variety of maintenance and repair tasks to keep buildings and facilities operational and in good condition. They handle everything from basic repairs to complex maintenance of systems and equipment.

Sample job titles:

Facilities Technician, Maintenance Engineer, Maintenance Mechanic, Maintenance Technician

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Maintenance and Repair Worker.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

Scores report

How much does a Maintenance and Repair Worker earn

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, typical income (in USD) in 2024 was...

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$34K per year	$39K per year	$49K per year	$62K per year	$76K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $880 below the national average.

See income by country/state/province

What does a Maintenance and Repair Worker do?

Work environment

These workers are employed in various settings, including residential buildings, commercial properties, schools, hospitals, and factories. Their work environment varies based on the location and type of job, often involving both indoor and outdoor tasks. The work can sometimes require lifting heavy objects and working in cramped spaces.

Quick task list

Performs routine maintenance tasks such as painting, plumbing, and electrical repairs.
Inspects and diagnoses problems in equipment and systems.
Conducts emergency repairs to prevent disruptions in building operations.
Coordinates with contractors and specialists for complex repairs.
Keeps records of maintenance and repair work.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

HVAC Maintenance: Specializing in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems.
Electrical Maintenance: Focusing on electrical systems and repairs.
Plumbing Maintenance: Handling water and sewage systems.
Groundskeeping: Maintaining outdoor areas, including landscaping and exterior structures.

Description

Maintenance and Repair Workers are the backbone of facility management, ensuring that buildings and systems function effectively and safely. They must have a broad set of skills, as their work can range from simple tasks like fixing leaks or changing light bulbs to more complex activities like servicing HVAC units or repairing electrical faults. A typical day might involve a varied set of tasks, requiring flexibility and a problem-solving mindset.

Technical knowledge is crucial in this role, and workers must be adept at using a variety of tools and equipment. They also need to understand the basics of different building systems, from electrical wiring to plumbing. In addition to technical skills, good communication and customer service skills are important, as these workers often interact with building occupants and managers to address repair needs and concerns.

Staying current with building codes and safety regulations is essential, and many workers pursue ongoing education or certifications to enhance their skills and knowledge. The role can be physically demanding and sometimes requires working in challenging conditions, but it offers the satisfaction of keeping facilities running smoothly and solving tangible problems.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

The variety of tasks and challenges faced daily.
The ability to solve problems and see immediate results of one's work.
Contributing to the functionality and safety of buildings and facilities.

You might make a good Maintenance and Repair Worker if you are...

Handy with tools and enjoy fixing things.
A problem-solver who can think on your feet.
Physically fit and able to handle a variety of tasks.
Good at communicating and working with others.
Interested in learning a wide range of maintenance skills.

Pros:

Diverse work environments, ranging from residential to industrial settings.
Opportunity for independent work and problem-solving.
High demand for skilled workers in various industries.
Potential for overtime pay and job security.

Cons:

Physically demanding work that may include working in uncomfortable positions or environments.
Risk of injury from tools, machinery, or electrical systems.
May require working odd hours, including evenings and weekends, for emergency repairs.
Requires continuous learning to keep up with new technologies and repair techniques.

How to become a Maintenance and Repair Worker

Typical education

A high school diploma or equivalent is typically required. Many skills are learned on the job, but some workers may also pursue vocational training or apprenticeships in specific areas like plumbing, electrical work, or HVAC systems.

High school preparation

Courses:

Shop classes or vocational training for hands-on experience with tools and machinery.
Basic science and math courses to understand mechanical and electrical principles.
Technical drawing or drafting courses to read and interpret blueprints and schematics.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Joining clubs or teams that focus on building or repairing, like robotics clubs.
Volunteering for community service projects involving construction or repair work.
Part-time jobs or internships related to construction, electrical work, or mechanical repairs.

Preparation after high school

Pursue a certificate or associate degree in a field like general maintenance, HVAC, or electrical work.
Apprenticeships in specific trades like plumbing, carpentry, or electrical work.
On-the-job training opportunities to gain practical experience.
Continuous education to learn about new technologies and building codes.

More resources

U.S. Department of Labor's Apprenticeship Program - Offers information on apprenticeships in various trades.
National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) - Provides training and certification programs for construction and maintenance careers.
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) - Offers resources and training for workplace safety, crucial for maintenance workers.
HomeAdvisor Pro Center - Offers business resources and networking opportunities for professionals in repair and maintenance services.

Similar careers

Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.