Maintenance and Repair Workers, General
Maintenance and repair workers keep machines, equipment, and building systems running smoothly. They work across multiple skilled trades—including plumbing, HVAC, welding, carpentry, and electrical work—repairing whatever breaks down. Most work in factories, office buildings, hospitals, schools, or other facilities that need ongoing upkeep.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against maintenance and repair workers, general and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves responding to equipment failures and completing scheduled maintenance. A worker might repair a broken conveyor belt one day, replace HVAC filters the next, then patch drywall and fix plumbing leaks. Tasks include diagnosing problems, ordering parts, performing repairs or replacements, and documenting work. The job combines hands-on troubleshooting with physical work in various building locations.
Who this work suits
Holland code RCI. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You tend to prefer solving practical, tangible problems and working with your hands rather than in abstract or creative ways. You're organized, follow procedures carefully, and find satisfaction in getting equipment and systems back in working order through systematic problem-solving.
What it takes
Preparation: Medium preparation (vocational training, an associate degree, or related experience). Most people in this occupation hold a certificate or training program.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| District of Columbia | $49,240 | $60,310 | $76,210 | 4,860 |
| Alaska | $46,940 | $60,270 | $75,400 | 4,590 |
| Minnesota | $47,430 | $59,200 | $69,770 | 29,660 |
| Washington | $48,250 | $59,160 | $72,330 | 32,450 |
| Massachusetts | $46,910 | $58,320 | $69,500 | 29,830 |
| Hawaii | $46,880 | $57,960 | $72,460 | 8,030 |
| New York | $45,590 | $57,790 | $69,650 | 119,650 |
| Connecticut | $45,530 | $57,620 | $71,150 | 11,700 |
| California | $46,330 | $57,000 | $71,220 | 143,060 |
| Illinois | $44,000 | $56,720 | $68,680 | 66,600 |
| Wisconsin | $45,590 | $55,810 | $63,920 | 30,880 |
| Vermont | $47,880 | $55,510 | $62,400 | 2,610 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Certified Maintenance and Reliability Technician (CMRT) — Society for Maintenance & Reliability Professionals
- Certified Apartment Maintenance Technician (CAMT) — National Apartment Association
- Certified Maintenance Employee — American Hotel and Lodging Association Educational Institute
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
and 106 more
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against maintenance and repair workers, general and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 49-9071.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.