Training

• In order to become a certified Maintenance Technician, a candidate must be certified through the International Maintenance Institute. The first level of certification and the easiest to attain is that of Certified Maintenance Technician. In order to attain this title, the technician must "meet several prerequisites and pass a comprehensive written examination," reports the Bureau of Labor Statistics website.
  
  

Duties

• The duties of a maintenance technician are many. He might work with an air-conditioner that has broken down, he might change a light bulb or even completely overhaul a machine. The maintenance technician might fix a leaky pipe or work with electrical wires. The knowledge of a maintenance technician must be wide enough to tackle almost any project within the company she works for.
  
  

Hazards

• Because maintenance technicians work with hand tools, power tools, electric wires and heavy machinery a focus on safety is absolutely necessary. Job-related injuries for maintenance technician can include minor scraps and burns to more serious and even deathly injuries caused by heavy machines, electrical charges and power tools. These dangers are less costly when the maintenance technician follows safety protocols. Gloves, goggles, boots and coveralls are all important for a maintenance technician.
  
  

Salary

• In 2008, the median pay for a maintenance technician was $16.21 per hour. The top ten percent earned over $25.94 while the lowest ten percent earned less than $9.78 an hour details the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The amount of money a maintenance technician can make depends on experience and opportunity. Being certified by the International Maintenance Institute can also provide more opportunity and a higher wage.
  
  

Considerations

• Being maintenance technician is not for everyone. There are dangers and challenges in this job that require a specific focus and strict adherence to safety measures. This job may be great for someone who likes to work with her hands or who loves to fix things. This is a job where results are obvious and have a real-world effect. Those who enjoy the benefits of repair and critical thinking may enjoy a career in maintenance technology.