How to become a maintenance technician

See what to do to obtain a maintenance technician certificate.

The maintenance technician career is one of the most promising and essential in the current job market. With the continuous advancement of technology and the increasing complexity of systems used in various industries, the demand for qualified maintenance professionals is on the rise. These technicians play a vital role in ensuring that machines and equipment operate efficiently and safely, preventing unexpected downtime and minimizing additional costs for emergency repairs.

Becoming a maintenance technician is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a stable, well-paying career. This profession offers diverse opportunities for growth and specialization in areas such as electricity, mechanics, hydraulics, pneumatics and control systems. Furthermore, the practical nature of the work provides a continuous and rewarding learning experience.

Become a maintenance technician

A career as a maintenance technician is a promising and essential choice in several industries, such as manufacturing, construction, automotive and building services. These professionals are responsible for ensuring that machines and equipment function correctly and safely, preventing failures and minimizing unexpected downtime. Becoming a maintenance technician requires a combination of education, training, hands-on experience and specific skills.

However, entering this career requires a combination of formal education, on-the-job training, and specific skill development. It is important to follow a series of steps that range from obtaining adequate training to acquiring relevant certifications and actively searching for job opportunities.

This comprehensive guide has been designed to provide you with all the information you need to start and progress in your career as a maintenance technician. We will cover each step of the process, including initial education, certifications, practical and complementary skills development, and effective strategies for job search and career advancement. With these guidelines, you will be well prepared to face the challenges and seize the opportunities of this dynamic and constantly evolving field.

1. Initial Education and Training

A. High School

• Complete High School: The first step is to complete high school. Science, math, and physics courses are particularly useful for future maintenance technicians.

B. Technical Courses

• Enroll in a Technical Course: Many maintenance technicians begin their career with a technical course in areas such as electromechanics, electrical engineering, mechatronics or industrial maintenance. These courses provide a solid foundation in theory and practice.
• Duration and Content: Technical courses typically last one to two years and cover topics such as electricity, mechanics, hydraulics, pneumatics, control systems, and preventive maintenance.

2. Obtaining Certifications

A. Specific Certifications

• NR-10 (Safety in Installations and Services with Electricity): This certification is mandatory for professionals who work with electricity and addresses safety measures.
• NR-35 (Work at Height): Essential for technicians who work at height, ensuring safety in elevated operations.

B. Other Relevant Certifications

• Building Maintenance Certification: Focused on maintenance of buildings and facilities.
• Certification in HVAC Systems: Important for technicians who work with heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems.

3. Development of Practical Skills

A. Internships and Field Experience

• Participate in Internships: During or after the technical course, it is highly recommended to participate in internships to gain practical experience in real work environments.
• Practical Learning: Work directly with machines and equipment under the supervision of experienced professionals.

B. Technical Skills

• Problem Diagnosis: Ability to identify and resolve technical problems with equipment.
• Preventive maintenance: Carry out regular inspections and maintenance to avoid failures.
• Reading Diagrams and Manuals: Ability to understand electrical diagrams and technical manuals.

4. Development of Complementary Skills

A. Communication Skills

• Effective communication: Be able to communicate problems and solutions clearly and concisely.
• Team work: Collaborate effectively with other technicians and professionals.

B. Continuous Update

• Update Courses: Attend courses and workshops to stay up to date with new technologies and industry practices.
• Reading Technical Publications: Follow magazines and websites specializing in maintenance and technology.

5. Job Search and Career Advancement

A. Resume and Online Profile Preparation

• Attractive CV: Create a detailed, up-to-date resume that highlights your skills, certifications, and experience.
• LinkedIn profile: Maintain a professional profile on LinkedIn for networking and looking for opportunities.

B. Job Search

• Using Job Sites: Search for vacancies on sites such as Indeed, LinkedIn, Glassdoor, SINE and Vagas.com.
• Networking: Attend professional events and connect with colleagues and potential employers.

C. Interviews and Hiring

• Interview Preparation: Practice answers to common interview questions and be prepared to demonstrate technical skills.
• Salary Negotiation: Understand the value of your skills and negotiate a fair salary.

A search for a new path

Becoming a maintenance technician is a journey that combines education, on-the-job training and ongoing skill development. This guide has provided a comprehensive overview of all the steps needed to enter and advance in this vital and in-demand career. By following these guidelines, you will be well equipped to face the challenges of the job market and build a solid and rewarding career.

Importance of Initial Education and Training

Education and initial training are the foundations of a maintenance technician's career. Completing high school and enrolling in a technical course are essential steps that provide the necessary theoretical and practical foundation. These courses cover a variety of topics, from electricity and mechanics to control systems, preparing you to face a variety of situations in the field of work.

Value of Certifications

Certifications are proof of your specific skills and knowledge, making you more attractive to employers. Certifications such as NR-10 and NR-35 are crucial to ensure you are able to work safely in environments involving electricity and heights. Additionally, other relevant certifications can open doors to specializations and job opportunities in specific industries.

Development of Practical and Complementary Skills

Practical experience, gained through internships and field work, is essential to improving your technical skills. In addition to specific maintenance skills, developing complementary skills such as effective communication and teamwork skills can significantly enhance your career prospects. Keeping up to date with improvement courses and reading technical publications is equally important to remain competitive in the market.

Job Search and Career Advancement Strategies

Finding a job as a maintenance technician involves creating a well-designed CV, using online employment platforms and establishing good networking. Properly preparing for interviews and following salary negotiation strategies are critical final steps to securing a position that matches your expectations and qualifications.

Career Perspectives and Continuous Development

A career as a maintenance technician offers diverse opportunities for growth and specialization. With continued demand for qualified professionals, you can expect stability and opportunities for progression. Whether in industrial, building or automotive maintenance, the field is vast and dynamic, allowing you to explore different areas and develop a varied and enriching career.

Final considerations

The path to becoming a maintenance technician requires dedication, continuous effort and the ability to adapt to technological changes. The combination of a solid education, practical experience and complementary skills forms the foundation for a successful career. This guide is designed to help you navigate each step of this process, providing the tools and information you need to achieve your professional goals.

With perseverance and commitment, you will be well prepared to excel in the maintenance field and build a successful career. Good luck on your journey and in your search for new opportunities!