What is a Plant Maintenance Job?
A plant maintenance job involves maintaining and repairing machinery, equipment, and systems in a manufacturing or production plant. This job requires a deep understanding of mechanical, electrical, and industrial systems. The plant maintenance technician is responsible for ensuring that all machinery and equipment are working efficiently, safely, and reliably. The job is critical to the success of the manufacturing process, as it helps to minimize downtime and improve productivity.
What Usually Happens in This Position?
The plant maintenance technician is responsible for a wide range of tasks, including:
- Performing routine maintenance on machinery and equipment to ensure they're in good working condition
- Diagnosing and repairing equipment failures and malfunctions
- Troubleshooting electrical, mechanical, and hydraulic systems
- Installing new equipment and machinery
- Performing preventative maintenance to prevent equipment failures
- Maintaining accurate records of maintenance and repair logs
- Following all safety protocols and regulations
Top 5 Skills for the Position
The top 5 skills required for a plant maintenance job are:
- Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills
- Excellent communication skills to work effectively with other team members and management
- Strong attention to detail and ability to work independently
- Knowledge of electrical, hydraulic, and mechanical systems
- Familiarity with computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS)
How to Become a Plant Maintenance Specialist
To become a plant maintenance specialist, you typically need a high school diploma or GED and some vocational or technical training in industrial maintenance. You can also pursue an associate degree or certificate program in industrial maintenance or a related field. Some employers may require additional certifications, such as a Certified Maintenance & Reliability Professional (CMRP) or Certified Maintenance Technician (CMT). On-the-job training is also common for plant maintenance jobs, as every plant is different and has unique systems and equipment.
Average Salary
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for industrial machinery mechanics, machinery maintenance workers, and millwrights was $54,920 in May 2020. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $34,030, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $87,020.
Roles and Types
Plant maintenance jobs can vary depending on the industry and the type of plant. Some common roles and types of plant maintenance jobs include:
- Industrial maintenance technician
- Maintenance mechanic
- Millwright
- Electrical maintenance technician
- HVAC technician
- Boiler operator
- Welder
- Pipefitter
Locations with the Most Popular Jobs in the USA
Plant maintenance jobs are in high demand across the United States, particularly in manufacturing and industrial areas. Some of the top locations for plant maintenance jobs include:
- Houston, Texas
- Chicago, Illinois
- Los Angeles, California
- Atlanta, Georgia
- Dallas, Texas
What are the Typical Tools?
Plant maintenance technicians use a variety of tools and equipment to perform their jobs. Some of the most common tools include:
- Wrenches and screwdrivers
- Pliers and wire cutters
- Hammers and mallets
- Power tools, such as drills and saws
- Measuring tools, such as calipers and micrometers
- Welders and welding equipment
- Hydraulic and pneumatic tools
- Computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS)
In Conclusion
A plant maintenance job is a critical role in the success of manufacturing and production plants. It requires a deep understanding of mechanical, electrical, and industrial systems, as well as strong problem-solving and communication skills. With the right training and experience, you can pursue a rewarding career in plant maintenance and contribute to the success of your company.