How to Be Machine Maintenance Technician - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Mar 17, 2022 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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The role of a Machine Maintenance Technician is essential to the success of any manufacturing facility. By regularly performing preventative maintenance, they can ensure that machines are working properly and reduce downtime. This also helps to minimize costly repairs and replacements, as well as prevent potential safety hazards.

With routine maintenance, Machine Maintenance Technicians can extend the lifespan of machines and maximize production efficiency. Furthermore, by keeping machines in good condition, they can help reduce energy consumption and lower operational costs.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a high school diploma or equivalent. Most employers prefer to hire machine maintenance technicians who have a high school diploma or its equivalent.
Participate in a formal training program. Many employers prefer to hire technicians who have completed a formal training program, either at a vocational school or a technical institute. Programs typically cover the fundamentals of machine maintenance and repair, as well as safety and quality assurance.
Gain experience. Many employers prefer to hire technicians who have at least one year of experience in a related field. Hands-on experience in machine maintenance or repair can be gained through internships, apprenticeships, or on-the-job training.
Obtain certification. Some employers may require technicians to be certified in a specific area of machine maintenance or repair. Certification programs are typically offered by professional organizations and may require passing an exam or completing a training program.
Stay current on new technologies and techniques. As new technologies and techniques are developed in the field of machine maintenance and repair, technicians should stay current on these advancements. This can be done by attending seminars, conferences, and taking classes offered by professional organizations.

Proper machine maintenance is essential for any successful business in order to ensure the reliability, longevity, and accuracy of equipment. Without regular upkeep, machines can become inefficient, breakdown more often, and cost more to repair. In order to reduce downtime and keep equipment running optimally, it is necessary to have a trained and capable machine maintenance technician on hand.

By employing a knowledgeable technician, businesses can extend the life of their machines and reduce operational costs. Furthermore, a qualified technician can identify potential risks before they become major issues, and can provide preventative maintenance that helps avoid costly repairs and unplanned downtime. Investing in a skilled machine maintenance technician is a wise decision that can save businesses time and money in the long run.

You may want to check Machine Assembly Supervisor, Machine Maintenance Supervisor, and Machine Shop Supervisor Trainee for alternative.

Job Description

Diagnose and repair mechanical and electrical components of machinery.
Inspect and test machinery to detect malfunctions.
Replace worn, damaged, or defective parts.
Adjust functional parts of devices and control instruments.
Read and interpret equipment manuals and work orders to perform required maintenance and service.
Clean, lubricate, and perform other routine maintenance work on machinery.
Troubleshoot machines using various testing devices and equipment.
Monitor performance of machinery and make necessary repairs or adjustments.
Maintain accurate records of maintenance and repairs performed.
Provide technical support and advice to other mechanics or engineers.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of mechanical and electrical principles
Ability to troubleshoot and diagnose machine problems
Knowledge of engineering drawings and schematics
Ability to read, understand and interpret machine manuals
Ability to use hand and power tools safely
Ability to lift heavy equipment
Ability to perform preventive maintenance on machines
Excellent problem-solving skills
Ability to be detail-oriented and organized
Ability to work independently or as part of a team
Computer literacy, including knowledge in Microsoft Office programs
Ability to follow safety procedures and regulations
Good communication skills

Proper maintenance of machinery is essential for a successful business. Having an experienced and knowledgeable Machine Maintenance Technician is key to ensuring that the machinery is kept in top working condition. This includes the ability to diagnose and repair any mechanical or electrical issues that may arise.

The Machine Maintenance Technician must also be able to conduct routine maintenance and inspections to keep the machinery running smoothly. In addition, they must be able to read and interpret technical manuals, diagrams, and schematics in order to make repairs and modifications. Lastly, they must stay up to date with the latest technology and tools in order to keep the machines performing optimally.

Without a skilled and knowledgeable Machine Maintenance Technician, a business is at risk of experiencing downtime, costly repairs, and lost revenue. Therefore, it is important for businesses to invest in finding the best Machine Maintenance Technician for their needs.

Machine Shop Foreman, Machine Learning Engineer, and Machine Operator Trainee are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in machine maintenance?
Describe a difficult machine repair job you have undertaken.
What procedures do you follow when troubleshooting a machine issue?
How do you stay up-to-date with new machine technology?
What safety measures do you take when working on high-powered machines?
Describe a time when you had to manage multiple machine repairs at once.
How do you prioritize your work when faced with multiple tasks?
What techniques do you use to diagnose and fix mechanical problems quickly and accurately?
Have you ever managed a large-scale machine maintenance project?
How do you handle working with parts or components that are no longer available?

Common Tools in Industry

Screwdriver. A tool used to drive and remove screws. (Eg: Phillips head screwdriver)
Socket Wrench. A tool used to turn a nut or bolt by applying torque. (Eg: 3/8 inch socket wrench)
Pipe Wrench. A tool used to grip and turn pipes and fittings. (Eg: Adjustable pipe wrench)
Hammer. A tool used to drive nails, fit parts, and break apart objects. (Eg: Claw hammer)
Pliers. A tool used to grip and turn objects, cut wires, and hold items in place. (Eg: Needle nose pliers)
Allen Wrench. A tool used to drive and remove hexagonal head screws. (Eg: 5/32 Allen wrench)
Spanner. A tool used to fasten or loosen nuts and bolts. (Eg: Adjustable spanner)
Saw. A tool used to cut through materials such as wood, metal, or plastic. (Eg: Circular saw)
Drill. A tool used to create holes in materials such as wood, metal, or plastic. (Eg: Cordless drill)
Grinder. A tool used to grind down or shape materials such as metal, stone, or plastic. (Eg: Angle grinder)

Professional Organizations to Know

American Society for Industrial Maintenance (ASIM)
Association for Maintenance Professionals (AMP)
Society for Maintenance and Reliability Professionals (SMRP)
Plant Engineers and Managers Association (PEMA)
National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS)
Industrial Maintenance and Plant Management Association (IMPMA)
Institute of Industrial and Systems Engineers (IISE)
Manufacturing Skill Standards Council (MSSC)
International Facility Management Association (IFMA)
International Society of Automation (ISA)

We also have Machine Tool Setter, Machine Tool Programmer, and Machine Shop Manager jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Preventative Maintenance. The process of regularly inspecting, servicing and replacing parts of a machine before it breaks down.
Troubleshooting. Analyzing problems and determining solutions to fix malfunctioning machines.
Diagnostic Testing. Examining machines to identify and diagnose problems.
Calibration. Adjusting machines to ensure they are running within their specified performance ranges.
PLC Programming. Writing computer code for machines to control the operation of automated systems.
Robotics Programming. Writing computer code for robots to control the operation of automated systems.
Electrical Systems. Working with and understanding electrical components such as motors, cables, switches, and circuit boards.
Hydraulic Systems. Working with and understanding hydraulic components such as pumps, valves, and hoses.
Machine Safety. Ensuring the safety of workers by inspecting machines and identifying any potential hazards.
Quality Control. Inspecting products to ensure they meet quality standards.

Frequently Asked Questions

What certifications are necessary to become a Machine Maintenance Technician?

To become a Machine Maintenance Technician, you may need to obtain certifications such as an Electrical/Electronics Maintenance Certificate or Machine Maintenance Technician Certificate.

What knowledge and skills are important for a Machine Maintenance Technician?

A Machine Maintenance Technician should have a strong knowledge of mechanical and electrical systems, as well as welding, fabricating and machining. Other important skills include troubleshooting, problem-solving, communication, and manual dexterity.

What tools and equipment do Machine Maintenance Technicians use?

Machine Maintenance Technicians use a variety of tools and equipment, such as hand tools, power tools, diagnostic tools, measuring instruments, welding and cutting equipment, and lift trucks.

What are the duties of a Machine Maintenance Technician?

A Machine Maintenance Technician's duties include inspecting and testing machinery, diagnosing faults and malfunctions, repairing equipment, maintaining parts inventory, and performing preventative maintenance.