Career Pathway: Industrial Maintenance
Be the hero who keeps the machines running and production flowing.
A Day in the Life
As an Industrial Maintenance Mechanic, you're the backbone of any manufacturing facility. No two days are the same. One moment you might be performing scheduled preventative maintenance on a conveyor system, and the next you're racing to diagnose and fix a critical machine that has unexpectedly stopped. Your work involves troubleshooting mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, and pneumatic systems. You'll read technical manuals, use diagnostic tools, and get hands-on with repairs, ensuring that the entire plant operates safely and efficiently with minimal downtime.
Watch: Frito Lay Industrial Mechanic
Career Roadmap
Maintenance Apprentice
Learn from experienced technicians and assist with routine tasks.
Industrial Maintenance Mechanic
Independently perform preventative maintenance and complex repairs.
Maintenance Specialist (e.g., Electrical)
Become an expert in a specific area like PLCs or hydraulic systems.
Maintenance Supervisor / Manager
Lead the maintenance team and manage the facility's assets.
Skills Required
- Mechanical Systems
- Electrical Troubleshooting
- Hydraulics & Pneumatics
- Welding & Fabrication
- Critical Thinking
Earning Potential
Median Pay: **$62,280 per year**
Top 10% Earn: **>$97,090 per year**
(Source: U.S. BLS, Industrial Machinery Mechanics)
Top Certifications
- Certified Maintenance & Reliability Technician (CMRT)
- Certified Maintenance & Reliability Professional (CMRP)