Industrial Machinery Mechanics
Overview
Introduction
Industrial machinery mechanics — often called machinery maintenance mechanics, maintenance machinists, or industrial machinery repairers — inspect, maintain, repair, and adjust industrial production and processing machinery and equipment to ensure its proper operation in various industries. There are approximately 429,500 industrial machinery mechanics employed in the United States.
Quick Facts
Median Salary
Employment Prospects
Minimum Education Level
Experience
Skills
Personality Traits
Earnings
In May 2023, median hourly earnings for industrial machinery mechanics were $29.53 (or $61,420 annually), according to the U.S. Department of Labor. The lowest paid 10 percent earned less than $20.38 an hour (or $42,390 annually). The highest 10 percent earned $41.33 or more per hour (or $85,970 annually). Apprentices generally earn lower wages and earn incremental raises as they advance in the...
Work Environment
Industrial machinery mechanics work in all types of manufacturing plants, which may be hot, noisy, and dirty or relatively quiet and clean. Mechanics frequently work with greasy, dirty equipment and need to be able to adapt to a variety of physical conditions. Because machinery is not always accessible, mechanics may have to work in stooped or cramped positions or on high ladders.
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Outlook
The U.S. Department of Labor predicts that employment for industrial machinery mechanics will grow 17 percent through 2033, which is much faster than the average for all careers through 2033. Some industries will have a greater need for mechanics than others, based on their susceptibility to changing economic factors which can reduce production activities in slow periods. During these periods, ...
