Maintenance Mechanic (General)
PrintWork Tasks
GENERAL MAINTENANCE MECHANICS look for problems and determine the best way to repair them. They check blueprints, repair manuals, and parts lists to help find solutions. Mechanics repair plumbing, electrical, air-conditioning, and heating systems. They maintain the physical structure of commercial, industrial, and public buildings such as factories, apartment buildings, hospitals, and schools. Mechanics replace or fix worn or broken parts when needed. Mechanics do routine upkeep on machinery and buildings to make sure everything runs smoothly.
Salary, Size & Growth
- $39,500 average per year ($19.00 per hour)
- A very large occupation (1,274,500 workers in 2010)
- Expected to grow moderately (1.0% per year)
Entry Requirements
Employers prefer to hire GENERAL MAINTENANCE MECHANICS with a high school diploma. High school courses in mechanical drawing, electricity, woodworking, blueprint reading, and mathematics may be useful. Some employers prefer graduates of vocational courses from community or technical colleges or adult education programs. Other employers will hire workers who have experience as construction trade helpers or machine repairers. General maintenance mechanics need no license or certificate.