Maintenance Workers, Machinery Salary 2025: $60,850 Median, -2.8% Decline
Maintenance Workers, Machinery earn a median $60,850 per year, or about $29 per hour, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The middle 50% of workers earn between $42,000 and $88,550, with the top 10% pulling in over $88,500.
This occupation employs 60,020 people nationwide, mostly in manufacturing, repair shops, and industrial settings. But the outlook is cooling: BLS projects employment will shrink 2.8% from 2024 to 2034, meaning about 4,800 openings annually mostly from replacements.
How much Maintenance Workers, Machinery earn
The national median salary for Maintenance Workers, Machinery is $60,850 per year, with the mean hitting $64,610. That works out to about $29.33 an hour for full-time work.
Entry-level workers (10th percentile) start around $42,000, while experienced workers (90th percentile) top out at $88,550. The best-paid can earn six figures in high-demand industries.
Pay by state
Where you work matters a lot. The highest-paying state is Wyoming at $84,620, followed by New Hampshire ($77,070), Kentucky ($76,710), Nevada ($75,500), and Rhode Island ($72,040).
On the low end, Indiana averages $48,760, South Dakota $45,240, and New Mexico just $36,240 – a difference of more than $48,000 between the best and worst states.
How to become Maintenance Workers, Machinery
Most employers require a high school diploma or equivalent. On-the-job training is the most common path, often lasting a year or more. Some workers start as helpers or apprentices.
Technical certification or an associate degree in industrial maintenance can boost your chances. Certifications like the Certified Maintenance & Reliability Professional (CMRP) are valued but not required for entry. Employers typically want mechanical aptitude, troubleshooting skills, and familiarity with tools and blueprints.
- High school diploma or GED
- 1+ year on-the-job training or apprenticeship
- Optional: technical certificate or associate degree in industrial maintenance
- Certification (CMRP) helps advancement
Job outlook
Employment is projected to decline 2.8% from 2024 to 2034, a loss of about 1,700 jobs by 2034. The BLS notes that automation and improved machine reliability reduce the need for manual maintenance. However, about 4,800 openings per year will still arise as workers retire or leave the field.
Job prospects are best for those with strong technical skills or certifications. Workers who can handle newer automated equipment may find steadier demand.
Frequently asked questions
What is the salary for Maintenance Workers, Machinery in 2025?
The BLS reports a median annual wage of $60,850 as of May 2024, with a typical range from $42,000 to $88,550.
How do I become a Maintenance Worker, Machinery?
You typically need a high school diploma and on-the-job training. Some complete a vocational program or associate degree. Certification can help advancement.
Is Maintenance Workers, Machinery a growing field?
No, BLS projects a 2.8% decline from 2024 to 2034. But about 4,800 openings per year are expected due to replacement needs.
Which states pay the most for this job?
Wyoming ($84,620), New Hampshire ($77,070), Kentucky ($76,710), Nevada ($75,500), and Rhode Island ($72,040) are the top five.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Maintenance Workers, Machinery data.