Financial aid (may be available)
Financial aid (may be available)
Financial aid (may be available)
Financial aid (may be available)
If you enjoy working with your hands, building things, and getting dirty, a career in the trades may be right for you. Maintenance technicians are effectively mechanics specializing in large-scale machinery. There are a number of jobs that fall into the world of industrial maintenance. From maintenance technicians to industrial mechanics, each role is unique to encompass specified or a variety of large-scale machinery.
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No cost info
No cost info
No cost info
The Facilities Maintenance Technician Certificate is a two-semester, 6-month program that provides a general overview of the core-competencies identified by industry leaders as well as hands-on experience in facilities maintenance. The program prepares students for entry-level positions as a Facility Maintenance Technician and Energy Efficiency Auditor, or careers in sustainability jobs In the first semester, the program provides a job readiness overview, covering topics such as a 360°-building tour, environmental awareness, communication skills, basic arithmetic calculations, computer skills, safety training, work order management systems, and troubleshooting and problem-solving skills related to being a Facilities Maintenance Technician. The program also provides an overview of skill-sets needed in jobs related to energy auditing and analytics. The second semester gives students OSHA-10 safety training as well as hands-on lab instruction and exercises of the following primary core competencies: safety training, general skills in construction, carpentry, plumbing, electrical, and HVAC and IAQ-environmental awareness and knowledge. Possible career options include Facility Maintenance Technicians and Energy Efficiency Auditors or careers in sustainability and custodial related jobs.
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When a pipe bursts, a lathe stops rotating or an electrical motor needs to be replaced, a maintenance technician is called in to do their magic.
Maintenance Technology is a field that offers many options to those who prefer work that’s hands-on and mechanical. And may seem magical to those less skilled in matters of installation and repair.
If you’d rather work on a stamping press than in an office, are interested in the moving parts behind the scenes and get more reward out of the process rather than the product, this is the program for you!
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In our highly automated manufacturing economy, every machine requires maintenance and occasional repair. If just one machine goes out of service, it can mean disruptions in the entire supply chain. As a result, maintenance technicians with strong mechanical skills are in high demand. If you like to fix things with your hands, this 100% online course will provide you with the knowledge and skills to start a great career as a maintenance technician. Upon successful completion, you will have a thorough understanding of how machines and systems function and know how to keep them running reliably for their expected lifespan and beyond.
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If you're looking for a direct path to a hands-on, well-paying career in Tampa that doesn't require a four-year degree, becoming a Maintenance Technician is a smart, stable choice. The Tampa metro area employs over 25,000 of these essential skilled trade professionals, who earn a median salary of $48,500 per year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This guide breaks down the exact steps to get you through a local training program, certified, and into a high-demand job keeping Tampa's industries running.
What is a Maintenance Technician? A Maintenance Technician is a skilled professional who installs, services, and repairs machinery, equipment, and building systems to ensure they operate safely and efficiently.
How much is the average/range of tuition cost of maintenance tech programs in Tampa? Certificate and diploma programs at local technical colleges are affordable, typically ranging from $3,000 to $6,000.
Length of training for a Maintenance Technician: Training is fast and can be completed in 10 to 18 months, depending on the program.
Certification required for most jobs: While not a state license, industry certifications like EPA 608 (for HVAC) or NIMS (for industrial machinery) are essential for employment.
Ave. salary in Tampa according to the latest US BLS data 2024: The median salary for a Maintenance and Repair Worker in the Tampa-St. Pete-Clearwater metro area is approximately $48,500 per year.
A Maintenance Technician is a skilled professional responsible for the upkeep and repair of various types of equipment and machinery. They may work in a variety of settings, such as industrial plants, commercial buildings, or even residential complexes. Maintenance Technicians are responsible for performing routine maintenance, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring that all equipment is functioning properly and efficiently.
To get hired for a professional maintenance role in Tampa, you'll need to meet the industry standards for this skilled trade.
The fastest way to become a Maintenance Technician in Tampa is to enroll in a full-time career certificate or diploma program at a local technical college. These intensive, hands-on programs are designed to be completed in 10 to 12 months, providing you with the foundational skills in electrical, HVAC, and mechanical systems needed to get an entry-level job.
Tampa offers several options for Maintenance Technician classes, each with its own unique curriculum and approach. Here are a few examples:
You cannot become a professional Maintenance Technician through a fully online program because the trade is fundamentally hands-on. Success in this field depends on your ability to physically troubleshoot, repair, and install equipment. While online courses can supplement your learning for theory and electrical code, you must attend an in-person program in the Tampa area to get the essential hands-on lab and workshop experience employers require.
The most affordable path to this career is through Tampa's excellent public college system. Additionally, you can find financial support through:
CareerSource Tampa Bay: This is the primary local resource for workforce development. Eligible individuals may qualify for a Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) grant that can cover the full cost of tuition for in-demand skilled trades programs.
Apprenticeships: Some local unions or large companies offer paid apprenticeship programs where you learn on the job while taking classroom instruction.
Financial Aid: Applying for state and federal financial aid (FAFSA) can significantly reduce or eliminate the cost of attending a technical or community college program.
While Florida does not have a state-wide license for general maintenance technicians, earning industry-recognized certifications is how you prove your skills and get hired.
EPA 608 Certification: This is the most important one. It is legally required by the federal government for anyone who works with and handles refrigerants in air conditioning systems.
Certified Pool Operator (CPO): Essential for technicians working at apartment complexes, hotels, or condos with pools.
OSHA 10/30: Safety certifications that are highly valued by industrial and construction employers.
NIMS Certifications: Credentials from the National Institute for Metalworking Skills are valuable for industrial machinery mechanics.
Tampa's diverse economy means Maintenance Technicians are needed everywhere. The most common employers include:
Residential Properties: Large apartment complexes and condominium associations.
Commercial Buildings: Office parks, retail centers, and hotels.
Industrial and Manufacturing Plants: Factories and production facilities in the greater Tampa area.
Hospitals and Healthcare Facilities: Keeping critical hospital systems running 24/7. Major employers include Tampa General Hospital, HCA Florida, and BayCare Health System.
Government and Schools: Maintaining city buildings, county facilities, and public schools.
Yes, it's an excellent career with strong, consistent demand across multiple industries. It offers a good, stable income without the need for a four-year degree, making it a very secure skilled trade.
Most training programs provide tools for you to use in class. However, for your first job, you will be expected to have your own set of basic hand and power tools.
The median hourly wage for a Maintenance and Repair Worker in the Tampa metro area is approximately $23.32 per hour, according to the latest BLS data from May 2024.
Becoming a Maintenance Technician in Tampa can be a great career path for those interested in the skilled trades. With a variety of training options, both in-person and online, as well as potential for financial assistance, there are plenty of opportunities to get the education and certification you need to land a fulfilling maintenance technician job in the Tampa area. Whether you're just starting your career or looking to switch fields, the city's thriving job market and diverse industries make it an excellent place to pursue a career as a Maintenance Technician.
Wondering if there's more? Perhaps these other articles will be more helpful if this one isn't exactly what you're after:
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