Day in the life
A Day in the Life of a Maintenance Helper
What maintenance helpers actually do from the start of a shift to the end: the tasks, tools, schedule and realities of the job.
What is a typical day like for a maintenance helper?
Get assignments. From there, the day usually includes assist mechanics, carry tools and parts, and clean work areas. Full time, sometimes shifts.
Hour by hour: a typical shift
No two days are identical, but this timeline reflects a realistic day for a maintenance helper working full time.
- Get assignments.
- Help replace a pump.
- Clean the shop.
- Fetch parts.
- Change light fixtures.
- Assist with a motor alignment.
- Restock supplies.
Where maintenance helpers work
Helpers work in plants, buildings, shops and outdoors.
Hours and schedule
Full time, sometimes shifts.
Tasks you’ll do most often
- Assist mechanics
- Carry tools and parts
- Clean work areas
- Hold materials
- Do simple repairs
- Move equipment
- Learn procedures
Tools you’ll use every day
- Hand tools
- Power tools
- Ladders
- Hand trucks
- Shop vacs
- Flashlights
The best and hardest parts of the job
What people like
- Paid entry into trades
- Faster-than-average growth
- Short training
- Learn from experts
What’s hard
- Low starting pay
- Physical work
- Dirty tasks
- Little independence at first
You’ll likely thrive if…
- I want to learn a trade
- I like hands-on work
- I’m reliable
- I take direction well
- I don’t mind getting dirty
- I want short training
Not sure? Take the free Maintenance Helper fit quiz or the Career Match Quiz.
Staying safe on the job
- Follow lockout/tagout
- Wear PPE
- Use ladders safely
- Lift with your legs