Career roadmap
How to Become an Industrial Maintenance Technician
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as an industrial maintenance technician, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become an industrial maintenance technician: (1) finish high school, (2) get technical training, (3) start as a maintenance helper or tech I, (4) add electrical and PLC skills, (5) advance. Most people need about 1–4 years. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become an industrial maintenance technician
Finish high school
Math, physics and shop classes help.
Get technical training
Complete an industrial maintenance, mechatronics or electromechanical program, or apprenticeship.
Start as a maintenance helper or tech I
Build skills on preventive maintenance and basic repairs.
Add electrical and PLC skills
Multi-craft techs earn more and advance faster.
Advance
Move into reliability, controls, planner or maintenance supervisor roles.
Education and training requirements
A high school diploma is typically required. Many techs complete a one- to two-year technical program in industrial maintenance or mechatronics, an apprenticeship, or extensive on-the-job training.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | High school diploma or equivalent |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | Long-term on-the-job training |
| Typical training time | 1–4 years |
Certifications and licenses
- CMRT (SMRP): Certified Maintenance & Reliability Technician.
- NIMS credentials: National Institute for Metalworking Skills industrial maintenance credentials.
- OSHA 10 General Industry: Workplace safety training.
- NFPA 70E: Electrical safety and arc-flash training.
Skills to build now
Start with mechanical troubleshooting, electrical and motor controls, and plc basics and ladder logic, and practice problem-solving under pressure and communication with operators. Learning the industrial maintenance technician vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Maintenance Helper or Tech I: Perform PMs and basic repairs.
- Maintenance Technician II/III: Troubleshoot complex mechanical and electrical problems.
- Controls or Reliability Technician: Specialize in automation or predictive maintenance.
- Maintenance Supervisor or Reliability Engineer: Lead teams and improve equipment performance.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Industrial Maintenance Technician training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
How long does it take to become an industrial maintenance technician?
Most people need about 1–4 years of training. A high school diploma is typically required. Many techs complete a one- to two-year technical program in industrial maintenance or mechatronics, an apprenticeship, or extensive on-the-job training.
Do you need a degree to be an industrial maintenance technician?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education, plus long-term on-the-job training.
What certifications are available for industrial maintenance technicians?
Common credentials include CMRT (SMRP), NIMS credentials, OSHA 10 General Industry, and NFPA 70E. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 49-9041 (Industrial machinery mechanics).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Industrial machinery mechanics (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.