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Advanced ManufacturingTop JobColorado Talent Pipeline Report-aligned occupation with strong annual openings, growth, and wage signals.

Installation, Maintenance and Repair Worker, Machinery

Lubricate machinery, change parts, or perform other routine machinery maintenance.

Annual openings

75

Median wage

$64,010

Typical education

High school (GED)

Growth 2026–2032

+5%

Median wage source: Colorado BLS OEWS (2025).

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Career requirements

What does this career require?

Explore education, required qualifications, voluntary credentials and employer preferences for this role. Check the details to see which apply.

Typical education

High school (GED)

Credential requirement

While many employers offer on-the-job training, it’s important to have some background in the principles of mechanics in order to be the best maintenance worker possible. Previous experience or training courses will make you a stand-out.

Work experience

No previous work experience is required.

Can you fix just about anything using a toolbox and your own hands? Are you a whiz at home improvement? As a maintenance worker, you’ll spend your days performing repairs and upkeep on various pieces of manufacturing equipment, as well as general building repairs. You’ll use your own set of tools to make sure that the facilities are in working order.
You’ll file reports when you've finished with repairs, making sure to keep track of which machines are still safe and efficient. You’ll be working with potentially dangerous machines, so you’ll need to keep in mind safety procedures at all times. The repairs you make may require you to go into small spaces, climb ladders, work in high heat, lift heavy objects, and listen to loud noises. Good physical form is crucial in performing your job well.

Is this work a fit?

What the work actually feels like

How people in this career tend to spend their time, the interests it draws on, and a look at a typical day.

Work style

The type of work can vary by job and employer.

  • With childrenNo
  • On a computerMay vary
  • OutdoorsMay vary
  • With your handsYes

Interests it draws on

  • Manufacturing

Automation exposure

High exposure

Many tasks are repeatable, so technology could reshape the day-to-day over time.

A typical day

  1. Dismantle machines and remove parts for repair, using hand tools, chain falls, jacks, cranes, or hoists.
  2. Reassemble machines after the completion of repair or maintenance work.
  3. Lubricate or apply adhesives or other materials to machines, machine parts, or other equipment according to specified procedures.
  4. Collaborate with other workers to repair or move machines, machine parts, or equipment.
  5. Read work orders and specifications to determine machines and equipment requiring repair or maintenance.
  6. Inspect or test damaged machine parts, and mark defective areas or advise supervisors of repair needs.
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