Job Details
Skills And Tools:
Job Description
- Maintenance Engineers are involved in several tasks to ensure that industrial machines are maintained and repaired. In reviewing several job listings for this profession, we found the following are among the core duties and responsibilities of a Maintenance Engineer.
Inspect and Maintain Equipment
- To avoid malfunction and other problems with equipment, it is up to the Maintenance Engineer to make sure that equipment is working and not in danger of breaking down. They perform routine inspections and preventive maintenance on machines to keep them running smoothly. This might include replacing worn parts and checking oil and other fluid levels.
Make Repairs
- When an industrial machine breaks down, it is up the Maintenance Engineer to get it working again. They are responsible for troubleshooting the problem and assessing whether parts can be repaired or need to be replaced. They would commonly be responsible for ordering and installing replacement parts. Maintenance Engineers must also make any required upgrades or changes to established systems to improve or prolong efficiency.
Install New Equipment
- In some cases, machines that no longer work simply cannot be repaired due to the age of the machine or the cost of the repairs. It is then the responsibility of the Maintenance Engineer to install new equipment and to perform checks following installation to ensure that all systems are in working order.
Job Requirements
In addition to mechanical skills, a Maintenance Engineer should be a strong problem solver with an eye for detail and an analytical mind.
Strong communication and organizational skills are also important for this profession. Maintenance Engineers should have the ability to stand, stoop, squat and kneel for long periods of time, as well as lift, push and pull large machine parts or machines as needed. In addition to these general skills, a Maintenance Engineer could be expected by potential employers to possess the following skills.
Core skills:
Based on job listings we looked at, employers want Maintenance Engineers with these core skills. If you want to work as a Maintenance Engineer, focus on the following.
- Understanding electrical, plumbing, air conditioning, heating and electronic systems
- Troubleshooting problems on various types of equipment
- Understanding how to read blueprints and system schematics
- Knowing equipment safety systems and processes
Advanced skills:
While most employers did not require the following skills, multiple job listings included them as preferred. Add these to your Maintenance Engineer toolbox and broaden your career options.
- Knowledge of OSHA and EPA guidelines and standards
- Understand how to handle and dispose of hazardous materials
- Knowledge of basic computer applications, such as Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint
