Manufacturing and tech
How to become an industrial maintenance technician or millwright
Keep factory machines, conveyors, and robots running.
About $63,000 typical pay. Training time: 1–2 year certificate or a paid apprenticeship. How to start: Paid apprenticeship.
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What does an industrial maintenance technician or millwright do?
Industrial maintenance technicians and millwrights keep factory machines, conveyors, and robots running. Many learn through paid apprenticeships at manufacturers, and the skills carry over to almost any plant.
What the work is like
- Physical: Moderately physical. Some lifting and time on your feet.
- Heights: Some ladder or rooftop work.
- Blood and medical: No medical tasks.
- Schedule: Nights, weekends, long shifts, or rotations are common.
- Travel: You'll usually work close to home.
- Math: Math and measurement are used every day.
Steps to become an industrial maintenance technician or millwright
Training: 1–2 year certificate or a paid apprenticeship. You can earn while you learn.
- Ask local factories about maintenance apprenticeships.
- Look at industrial maintenance or mechatronics programs at your community college.
- Take any robotics or manufacturing CTE class you can.
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Where industrial maintenance tech or millwright jobs are in demand
Texas
- Houston and the Gulf Coast: Refineries, chemical plants, ports, and the Texas Medical Center all need skilled workers.
Ohio
- Southern Ohio: Manufacturing and new battery plants, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base near Dayton, and a growing need for nurses and drivers in rural counties.
Indiana
- Indiana: One of the most manufacturing-heavy states (cars, RVs, steel, and batteries), and a crossroads for trucking and warehouses.
Regional demand is a general guide. Check with your local workforce office for current openings.
How to pay for industrial maintenance tech or millwright training
Many people start this career through a paid apprenticeship or an employer who trains you, so training can cost little or nothing.
Fill out the FAFSA to see if you qualify for a Pell grant. Since 2026, Workforce Pell can also cover some short programs of 8 to 15 weeks. High school CTE and dual credit classes are often free.
Frequently asked questions
How much does an industrial maintenance technician or millwright make?
Typical pay is about $63,000, based on approximate national medians. Starting pay is usually lower, and pay varies by area and experience.
How long does it take to become an industrial maintenance technician or millwright?
1–2 year certificate or a paid apprenticeship.
Can you get paid while training?
Yes. Many people in this career are paid while they train, through a paid apprenticeship, an employer who covers training, or on-the-job learning.
Do you need a college degree?
No. This career doesn't require a four-year degree. Some people complete a certificate or two-year program at a community college.
Similar careers to explore
- CNC machinist: About $53,000. 6 month to 2 year certificate or apprenticeship
- Semiconductor technician: About $45,000–$60,000. Short programs (8–16 weeks) at community colleges, often with employer support
- IT support technician: About $60,000. CompTIA A+ or Google IT certificate in about 3–6 months
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