Facilities Maintenance Technician (Manufacturing) – Career Overview
A Facilities Maintenance Technician (Manufacturing) is responsible for maintaining and repairing the physical assets and systems in a manufacturing facility. This includes electrical, mechanical, and HVAC systems, as well as ensuring that the plant is in good working condition for optimal production. The role focuses on minimizing downtime, maintaining safety standards, and supporting operational efficiency by handling routine maintenance and emergency repairs.
Facilities Maintenance Technicians (Manufacturing) are responsible for:
● Maintaining and repairing manufacturing equipment and machinery to ensure that they are operating efficiently and reliably.
● Inspecting and troubleshooting mechanical, electrical, and HVAC systems within the facility, identifying issues, and making necessary repairs or replacements.
● Carrying out routine preventive maintenance, including lubricating machinery, replacing worn parts, and performing system checks to prevent downtime.
● Troubleshooting production line issues, including machine malfunctions, electrical failures, and mechanical breakdowns, and performing emergency repairs as needed.
● Ensuring compliance with safety regulations, including OSHA guidelines, and maintaining a safe working environment for all staff.
● Monitoring and maintaining the facility's infrastructure, such as lighting, plumbing, and electrical systems, to ensure that everything is functioning optimally.
● Documenting maintenance activities, keeping records of repairs, parts used, and systems maintained to comply with company protocols and regulatory requirements.
● Assisting with facility projects, such as system upgrades, machinery installations, or plant refurbishments.
● Coordinating with other departments, such as production and engineering, to schedule maintenance without disrupting operations.
A successful Facilities Maintenance Technician (Manufacturing) should be:
● Experienced in mechanical, electrical, and HVAC systems, with the ability to maintain and repair equipment and infrastructure in a manufacturing setting.
● Strong troubleshooting skills, able to quickly identify issues and implement effective solutions.
● Knowledgeable in safety regulations and compliance, ensuring that all work is done in accordance with legal and industry standards.
● Skilled in preventive maintenance and able to establish routines that maximize the lifespan of equipment and minimize downtime.
● Detail-oriented, with the ability to keep accurate records and maintain equipment in top condition.
● Good communication skills, able to collaborate with other maintenance staff, production teams, and supervisors to ensure smooth operations.
Most Facilities Maintenance Technicians (Manufacturing) have:
● A high school diploma or GED, with additional training in mechanical systems, electrical systems, or HVAC.
● Technical certifications in maintenance or a specific trade, such as electrical, plumbing, or HVAC certifications.
● Experience in manufacturing or industrial maintenance, often gained through on-the-job training or apprenticeships.
● Some may pursue a two-year associate degree in industrial maintenance or facilities management.
Facilities Maintenance Technicians (Manufacturing) work in manufacturing plants or industrial settings. They may be required to work in environments that are noisy, hot, or involve physical tasks such as lifting heavy equipment or working in confined spaces. The role often requires working with power tools, machinery, and electrical systems, making safety precautions critical.
The demand for Facilities Maintenance Technicians in manufacturing is expected to grow, particularly as manufacturing facilities continue to expand and upgrade their machinery and infrastructure. With experience, technicians can advance to supervisory roles, such as Maintenance Supervisor or Facilities Manager, or specialize in areas such as mechanical engineering or automation.