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Introduction

Behind every factory floor, power plant, and industrial facility is a network of machines and electrical systems that need to be kept running smoothly. When something goes wrong, production stops—and that’s costly.

That’s why electrical and electronics repairers for commercial and industrial equipment are so important. They troubleshoot, repair, and maintain the control systems, motors, and electronics that drive industry.

If you enjoy working with your hands, solving technical puzzles, and being in the middle of high-energy industrial environments, this career could be a great fit.

What Do They Do?

Responsibilities vary by industry but usually include:

• Inspecting and testing equipment like industrial controls, transformers, and motors.
• Diagnosing malfunctions in wiring, circuits, and electronic components.
• Repairing or replacing faulty parts such as switches, relays, or sensors.
• Calibrating systems to ensure accuracy and safety.
• Reading blueprints and technical diagrams to guide repairs.
• Installing upgrades to improve performance and efficiency.
• Documenting work for compliance and safety standards.

Their work directly impacts productivity, safety, and cost savings in industrial operations.

Skills You’ll Need

Industrial equipment repairers need a strong blend of technical, analytical, and mechanical skills:

• Electronics knowledge – Deep understanding of circuits, controls, and sensors.
• Mechanical aptitude – Comfort with motors, gears, and moving machinery.
• Diagnostic ability – Using meters, computers, and schematics to identify problems.
• Problem-solving – Each malfunction may have multiple possible causes.
• Attention to detail – Repairs must meet strict safety standards.
• Physical stamina – Industrial settings can be loud, hot, and physically demanding.

Education & Training

This career typically requires specialized technical training:

• High school diploma or GED – Required.
• Vocational or community college programs – Courses in electronics, industrial maintenance, or electrical repair.
• On-the-job training – Many repairers learn directly under experienced technicians.
• Certifications – OSHA safety, electrical certifications, and manufacturer-specific training.
• Continuous learning – As automation and robotics expand, ongoing training in PLC (programmable logic controllers) and advanced electronics is essential.

Salary & Job Outlook

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS):

• Median annual salary: About $68,020 (2023 data).
• Top 10% earners: Over $95,000/year.
• Hourly wage: Roughly $33/hour.

Job outlook:

• Employment is projected to grow at about 2–3% through 2032.
• Demand is strong due to reliance on automation, robotics, and industrial control systems.
• Workers trained in modern digital systems have the best opportunities.

Work Settings

These repairers are most commonly employed in:

• Manufacturing plants – Maintaining production machinery.
• Power plants and utilities – Keeping energy systems running.
• Construction firms – Servicing electrical control systems.
• Independent repair shops – Handling commercial and industrial clients.
• Military and government facilities – Supporting mission-critical equipment.

Work environments are often industrial, noisy, and physically demanding, but also fast-paced and rewarding.

Career Growth Opportunities

This field offers multiple advancement paths:

• Senior technician – Handling the most complex repairs.
• PLC or automation specialist – Focusing on robotics and advanced controls.
• Supervisor or manager – Leading teams of repair technicians.
• Industrial engineer roles – With further education.
• Business ownership – Running your own electrical repair service.

Would You Actually Like It?

This career is a strong match for those who like hands-on technical work, problem-solving, and industrial environments. It’s steady, well-paying, and highly respected.

You’ll probably enjoy it if you:
✅ Like working with electrical and electronic systems.
✅ Enjoy troubleshooting complex issues.
✅ Want a career with strong earning potential.
✅ Don’t mind industrial or noisy environments.

You might not enjoy it if you:
❌ Prefer a quiet, clean office job.
❌ Don’t like physical or sometimes dirty work.
❌ Don’t want to pursue ongoing training in automation and electronics.

My MAPP Fit

Here’s where the MAPP Career Assessment helps.

Industrial equipment repairers often align with MAPP profiles emphasizing technical reasoning, problem-solving, and responsibility. If your results show motivation for structured, technical work and reliability, this could be an excellent career fit.

👉 Is this career path right for you? Find out Free with the MAPP Career Assessment.

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