FAQ
Maintenance Helper FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as a maintenance helper.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming a maintenance helper: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about maintenance helpers
Is maintenance helper a good start?
Yes, it’s a common path into trades.
Is it growing?
BLS projects faster than average growth.
Do I need experience?
No.
How much does a maintenance helper make?
The median annual wage for maintenance helpers was $39,630 ($19.05 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $29,310 and the highest 10% earned more than $55,890.
How long does it take to become a maintenance helper?
Most people need about A few weeks on the job of training. A high school diploma and short-term on-the-job training are typical.
Do you need a degree to be a maintenance helper?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education, plus short-term on-the-job training.
Is maintenance helper a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change +5.3% from 2025–35 (faster than average), with about 13,600 openings each year. Upsides include paid entry into trades; a common challenge is that low starting pay.
What skills does a maintenance helper need?
Key technical skills include hand and power tools, basic repairs, safety procedures, and material handling. Employers also value willingness to learn, reliability, and teamwork.
What certifications are available for maintenance helpers?
Common credentials include OSHA 10, Forklift certification, Pre-apprenticeship, and First aid. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Still deciding?
Try the Maintenance Helper fit quiz, compare with Building Maintenance Technician, or explore Maintenance Helper training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 49-9098 (Helpers--installation, maintenance, and repair workers).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Helpers--installation, maintenance, and repair workers (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.