How to Become a Maintenance Technician in Georgia (2025)
A career as a maintenance technician is a hands-on, secure, and in-demand path, placing you at the center of Georgia's booming industrial, manufacturing, and residential sectors. These skilled professionals are the backbone of every facility, ensuring operations run smoothly. With the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reporting a national median salary of $49,040 per year (May 2024), and Georgia's massive logistics and manufacturing industries driving demand, this is a career with clear-cut training and strong earning potential.
This guide details the exact steps, certifications, and career paths for becoming a successful maintenance technician in Georgia.
Career Paths and Opportunities after Becoming a Maintenance Technician
Becoming a Maintenance Technician opens up a wide range of career paths and opportunities. Here are some potential career options you can explore after obtaining your certification:
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Facility Maintenance Technician: Facility Maintenance Technicians are responsible for the overall maintenance and repair of buildings and facilities. They perform routine inspections, troubleshoot issues, and perform repairs to ensure the safety and functionality of the facility. This role can be found in various industries, such as healthcare, manufacturing, or hospitality.
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Equipment Maintenance Technician: Equipment Maintenance Technicians specialize in the maintenance and repair of specific types of equipment or machinery. They ensure that equipment is operating efficiently and safely, perform preventive maintenance, and troubleshoot issues when they arise. This role can be found in industries such as manufacturing, construction, or transportation.
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HVAC Technician: HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) Technicians specialize in the installation, maintenance, and repair of HVAC systems. They are responsible for ensuring that heating and cooling systems are functioning properly and efficiently. HVAC Technicians can work in various settings, including residential, commercial, or industrial.
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Electrical Maintenance Technician: Electrical Maintenance Technicians specialize in the maintenance and repair of electrical systems and equipment. They ensure that electrical systems are operating safely and efficiently, troubleshoot electrical issues, and perform routine inspections. Electrical Maintenance Technicians can work in various industries, such as manufacturing, utilities, or construction.
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Building Inspector: Building Inspectors are responsible for ensuring that buildings meet safety and building code requirements. They perform inspections during different stages of construction or renovation projects to identify any violations or deficiencies. Building Inspectors can work for government agencies or as independent consultants.
These are just a few examples of the career paths and opportunities available to Maintenance Technicians. Depending on your interests and skills, you can explore various industries and specialize in different areas of maintenance.
How much does a Maintenance Technician make?
The average salary for a maintenance technician can vary depending on factors such as location, experience, industry, and employer. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for maintenance and repair workers was $44,980 as of May 2022. However, it's important to note that this figure includes workers in various maintenance-related occupations, not solely maintenance technicians.
The lowest 10 percent earned less than $29,220, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $68,930. This can vary depending on factors such as education, certifications, and previous work experience. Entry-level maintenance technicians may also receive additional training and mentorship as they gain hands-on experience in the field.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is maintenance technician a good career in Georgia?
Yes, it is an excellent career choice. Georgia's economy is strong in manufacturing, logistics, and real estate, all of which have a massive, constant need for maintenance technicians. The pay is competitive, you can get trained in a year or less, and there is high job security and clear paths for advancement.
How much do apartment maintenance techs make in Georgia?
The salary for an apartment maintenance technician in Georgia is typically in line with the state average of $48,930 per year. However, many apartment maintenance jobs offer significant perks, such as a free or heavily-discounted apartment, which can add thousands of dollars in value to the total compensation.
What's the difference between a Maintenance Tech and an HVAC Tech in Georgia?
A Maintenance Technician is a generalist who does plumbing, A/C, appliance repair, and electrical. They must have an EPA 608 card to handle refrigerants. An HVAC Technician is a specialist who only works on heating and air systems. To work as an HVAC contractor in Georgia, you must be licensed by the state, which requires several years of experience and passing a state exam.
What disqualifies you from being a maintenance technician in Georgia?
Most employers, especially in residential maintenance, will run a criminal background check. A history of felonies, theft, or violent crimes will likely disqualify you. You may also be disqualified if you cannot pass a pre-employment drug screen or do not have a valid driver's license.
Final Thoughts
Becoming a Maintenance Technician can be a rewarding career choice, offering stability, a competitive salary, and a wide range of job opportunities. By obtaining the necessary education, gaining hands-on experience, and obtaining certification, you can enhance your skills and increase your chances of success in the field. Remember to stay proactive in your job search, network with industry professionals, and continuously update your skills to stay competitive in the ever-evolving field of maintenance. Whether you choose to specialize in facility maintenance, equipment maintenance, HVAC, electrical maintenance, or become a building inspector, a career as a Maintenance Technician can offer long-term growth and job satisfaction.
If you're considering a career shift or curious about different professional paths, Dreambound has written many guides to help you in making informed decisions. Here are a few:
Pia Yapjoco is part of the school growth and sales team at Dreambound. She helps facilitate school partnerships that expand educational opportunities for aspiring students in allied health and other trades. Beyond work, she curates her pup's Instagram, hunts for hidden coffee gems, and escapes into cozy gaming.
