Maintenance Technician

Do you have a knack for tinkering and fixing things with your hands? Are you looking for a career where you can do what you love every day? This online maintenance technician course includes an intensive overview of the skills required for manufacturing maintenance, including the principles of power transfer and rigging safety, as well as PLCs and robotics. It will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to begin a successful career.

A maintenance technician is required to have a...

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18 Months / 250 Course Hrs
Open Enrollment
Offered in partnership with your preferred school

Finger Lakes Community College

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Maintenance Technician

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Course code: GES767

What you will learn

  • Troubleshooting
  • Six Sigma, 5S, Lean, and TPM
  • Inspection Methods
  • PLC Equipment and Communication
  • Electrical, Mechanical, and Fluid Systems
  • Robot Maintenance and Installation
  • Fabrication and Assembly Processes
  • Workholding Principles

How you will benefit

  • Prepare for a career as a maintenance technician, maintenance mechanic, equipment engineering technician, facilities manager, maintenance engineer
  • Gain confidence in your ability to perform your job
  • Develop the knowledge and skills you need to start your career
  • Enrolled students are invited to attend our exclusive annual virtual National Apprenticeship Week events, featuring live webinars, workshops, and employer interactions

How the course is taught

  • Self-paced, online course
  • 18 Months to complete
  • Open enrollment, begin anytime
  • 250 course hours
  1. Abrasives
    1. Grinding Processes 201
    2. Grinding Safety 211
    3. Basic Grinding Theory 221
    4. Basics of the Surface Grinder 231
    5. Basics of the Cylindrical Grinder 232
    6. Basics of the Centerless Grinder 233
    7. Setup for the Surface Grinder 241
    8. Setup for the Cylindrical Grinder 242
    9. Setup for the Centerless Grinder 243
    10. Surface Grinder Operation 251
    11. Cylindrical Grinder Operation 252
    12. Centerless Grinder Operation 253
    13. Introduction to Grinding Fluids 261
    14. Grinding Variables 301
    15. Grinding Nonferrous Materials 321
    16. Grinding Wheel Materials 331
    17. Dressing and Truing 341
    18. Grinding Wheel Selection 351
    19. Grinding Wheel Geometry 361
  2. CNC
    1. Basics of the CNC Lathe 211
    2. Basics of the CNC Mill 212
  3. Electrical Systems
    1. Electrical Units 101
    2. Safety for Electrical Work 111
    3. Introduction to Circuits 201
    4. Introduction to Magnetism 211
    5. DC Circuit Components 221
    6. NEC(R) Overview 231
    7. AC Fundamentals 241
    8. Electrical Instruments 251
    9. Electrical Print Reading 261
    10. DC Power Sources 271
    11. AC Power Sources 281
    12. Conductor Selection 291
    13. Series Circuit Calculations 301
    14. Parallel Circuit Calculations 311
    15. Battery Selection 321
  4. Fasteners
    1. Intro to Fastener Ergonomics 130
    2. Properties for Fasteners 200
    3. Introduction to Fastener Threads 221
    4. Overview of Threaded Fasteners 231
    5. Tools for Threaded Fasteners 235
    6. Overview of Non-Threaded Fasteners 241
    7. Understanding Torque 245
    8. Threaded Fastener Selection 255
  5. Hydraulics and Pneumatics
    1. Introduction to Fluid Systems 101
    2. The Forces of Fluid Power 201
    3. Safety for Hydraulic and Pneumatics 211
    4. Introduction to Hydraulic Components 221
    5. Introduction to Pneumatic Components 231
    6. Introduction to Fluid Conductors 241
    7. Fittings for Fluid Systems 251
    8. Preventative Maintenance for Fluid Systems 261
    9. Hydraulic Power Variables 301
    10. Hydraulic Power Sources 302
    11. Pneumatic Power Variables 311
    12. Pneumatic Power Sources 312
    13. Hydraulic Control Values 341
    14. Hydraulic Schematics and Basic Circuit Design 342
    15. Pneumatic Control Valves 351
    16. Pneumatic Schematics and Basic Circuit Design 352
    17. Actuator Applications 361
    18. Hydraulic Fluid Selection 371
    19. Contamination and Filter Selection 381
    20. Hydraulic Principles and System Design 391
  6. Inspection
    1. Basic Measurement 101
    2. Calibration Fundamentals 111
    3. Basics of Tolerance 121
    4. Blueprint Reading 131
    5. Hole Standards and Inspection 141
    6. Thread Standards and Inspection 151
    7. Surface Texture and Inspection 201
    8. Interpreting Prints 231
    9. Introduction to GD&T 301
    10. Major Rules GD&T 311
    11. Inspecting a Prismatic Part 321
    12. Inspecting a Cylindrical Part 331
    13. Advanced Hole Inspection 341
    14. Inspecting with Optical Comparators 351
    15. Inspecting with CMMs 361
    16. Calibration and Documentation 371
    17. In-Line Inspection Applications 381
  7. Lean
    1. Lean Manufacturing Overview 101
    2. Continuous Process Improvement: Managing Flow 124
    3. Continuous Process Improvement: Identifying and Eliminating Waste 125
    4. Total Productive Maintenance 141
    5. 5S Overview 151
    6. Intro to Six Sigma 171
    7. Troubleshooting 181
    8. Conducting Kaizen Events 191
    9. SPC Overview 211
    10. Metrics for Lean 231
    11. Process Flow Charting 241
    12. Strategies for Setup Reduction 251
    13. Management Tools: Problem Solving 270
    14. Six Sigma Goals and Tools 310
  8. Manual Machining
    1. Manual Mill Basics 201
    2. Engine Lathe Basics 211
    3. Manual Mill Stup 2311
    4. Benchwork and Layout Operations 241
    5. Manual Mill Operation 251
    6. Engine Lathe Operation 261
    7. Holemaking on the Manual Mill 271
    8. Threading on the Engine Lathe 301
    9. Taper Turning on the Engine Lathe 311
  9. Materials
    1. Hardness Testing 221
  10. Mechanical Systems
    1. Introduction to Mechanical Systems 101
    2. Safety for mechanical Work 111
    3. Forces of Machines 121
    4. Power Transmission Components 201
    5. Mechanical Power Variables 202
    6. Lubricant Fundamentals 211
    7. Bearing Applications 221
    8. Spring Applications 231
    9. Belt Drive Applications 241
    10. Gear Applications 251
    11. Gear Geometry 261
    12. Clutch and Brake Applications 271
  11. Metal Cutting
    1. Safety for Metal Cutting 101
    2. Cutting Processes 111
    3. Overview of machine Tools 121
    4. Basic Cutting Theory 201
    5. Band Saw Operation 211
    6. Introduction to Metal Cutting Fluids 221
    7. Limit Switches and Proximity Sensors 231
    8. Introduction to Electric Motors 301
    9. Symbols and Diagrams for Motors 311
    10. Logic and Line Diagrams 312
  12. PLCs
    1. Introduction to PLCs 201
    2. Hardware for PLCs 211
    3. PLC Inputs and Outputs 231
    4. Hand-Held Programmers of PLCs 280
    5. Overview of PLC Registers 305
  13. PLCs: Siemens
    1. Basics of Siemens PLCs 200
    2. Siemens PLC Hardware 210
    3. Siemens PLC Inputs and Outputs 240
    4. Siemens Human Machine Interfaces 250
    5. Siemens SIMATIC Modular PLCs 260
    6. Siemens SIMATIC S7-1200 PLCs 340
    7. Siemens SIMATIC S7-1500 PLCs 350
    8. Siemens Safety Integrated for Factory Automation 360
  14. Quality
    1. ISO 9001:2015 Review 122
    2. Approaches to Maintenance 131
    3. Customer-Focused Quality 155
    4. TS 16949:2009 Overview 221
  15. Rigging
    1. Introduction to Machine Rigging 111
    2. Rigging Equipment 121
    3. Rigging Inspection and Safety 131
    4. Lifting an Moving Equipment 141
    5. Rigging Mechanics 220
  16. Robotics
    1. Robot Troubleshooting 331
    2. Robot Maintenance 355
    3. Robot Installations 370
  17. Safety
    1. Introduction to OSHA 101
    2. Ergonomics 102
    3. Personal Protective Equipment 111
    4. Noise Reduction and Hearing Conservation 121
    5. Respiratory Safety 131
    6. Lockout/Tagout Procedures 141
    7. SDS and Hazard Communication 151
    8. Bloodborne Pathogens 161
    9. Walking and Working Surfaces 171
    10. Fire and Safety and Prevention 181
    11. Flammable/Combustible Liquids 191
    12. Hand and Power tool Safety 201
    13. Safety for Lifting Devices 211
    14. Powered Industrial Truck Safety 221
    15. Confined Spaces 231
    16. Environmental Safety Hazards 241
    17. Machine Guarding 271
  18. Shop Essentials (Applied Mathematics)
    1. Math Fundamentals 101
    2. Math Fractions and Decimals 111
    3. Units of Measurement 112
    4. Manufacturing Process Applications: Part I 124
    5. Manufacturing Process Applications: Part II 125
    6. Geometry: Lines and angles 151
    7. Geometry: Triangles 161
    8. Geometry: Circles and Polygons 171
    9. Trigonometry: The Pythagorean Theorem 201
    10. Trigonometry: Sine, Cosine, Tangent 211
    11. Statistics 231
  19. Supervisor Essentials
    1. Essentials of Leadership 100
    2. Managing Performance: Best Practices 130
    3. Managing Performance: Corrective Actions 135
    4. Conflict Resolution Principles 150
    5. Conflict Resolution for Different Groups 155
    6. Team Leadership 160
    7. Manufacturing Management 180
    8. Personal Effectiveness 190
    9. Managing the Diverse Workplace 210
    10. Harassment and Discrimination 215
    11. Performance Management and the Law 230
  20. Welding
    1. Welding Safety Essentials 101
    2. PPE for Welding 111
    3. Welding Fumes and Gases Safety 121
    4. Electrical Safety for Welding 131
    5. Introduction to Welding 141
    6. Introduction to Welding Processes 151
    7. Math Fundamentals for Welding 161
    8. Geometry Fundamentals for Welding 171
    9. Material Tests for Welding 201
    10. Welding Ferrous Metals 211
    11. Welding Nonferrous Metals 212
    12. Overview of Weld Types 221
    13. Overview of Weld Defects 222
    14. Welding Symbols and Codes 231
    15. Fabrication Process 232
    16. Electrical Power for Arc Welding 241
    17. Introduction to GMAW 251
    18. Introduction to SMAW 252
    19. Introduction to FCAW 261
    20. Introduction to GTAW 262
    21. Overview of Soldering 271
    22. Thermal Cutting Overview 281
    23. Oxyfuel Cutting Applications 282
    24. Plasma Cutting 283
    25. Introduction to Automation 291
    26. GMAW Applications 301
    27. Advanced GMAW Applications 302
    28. SMAW Applications 311
    29. FCAW Applications 321
    30. GTAW Applications 331
    31. Essentials of Communication 115
    32. Introduction to Workholding 101
    33. Supporting and Locating Principles 111
    34. Locating Devices 121
    35. Clamping Basics 131
    36. Chucks, Collets, and Vises 141
    37. Fixture Body Construction 200
    38. Fixture Design Basics 201
    39. Drill Brushing Selection 230
  21. Virtual Labs/Simulations (optional)
    1. Safety Awareness in Manufacturing
    2. Fire Safety
    3. 5S and Hand Tool Identification
    4. Rigging Equipment Safety and Inspection
    5. Power Tool Safety
    6. Safety for Lifting and Moving Devices
    7. Lockout Tagout Procedures
    8. Assembly with Mechanical Fasteners
    9. Testing an AC Induction Motor with Multimeter
    10. Hand Tool Safety
    11. Voltage Checks for a Variable Frequency Drive Panel

This is not an instructor facilitated course; however, support will be provided through email.

Prerequisites:

There are no prerequisites to take this course. However, this course requires basic computer skills, including the ability to open and manage windows, navigate websites, and perform common online tasks such as downloading files, completing forms, and using web-based tools.

Requirements:

Hardware Requirements:

  • This course can be taken on either a PC or Mac.

Software Requirements:

  • PC: Windows 8 or later.
  • Mac: macOS 10.6 or later.
  • Browser: The latest version of Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox are preferred. Microsoft Edge and Safari are also compatible.
  • Adobe Acrobat Reader.
  • Software must be installed and fully operational before the course begins.

Other:

  • Email capabilities and access to a personal email account.

Instructional Material Requirements:

The instructional materials required for this course are included in enrollment and will be available online.

According to Indeed.com, the average salary of a maintenance technician in the United States is $55,020.

According to Manufacturing.org, advanced manufacturing refers to the use of innovative technologies to create new and existing products. 

No.

These are just a few of the advanced manufacturing skills taught in this course

Equipment Maintenance: This involves the ability to perform routine maintenance tasks, diagnose and repair malfunctions, and ensure the safe and efficient operation of machinery.

Industrial Robotics: The ability to understand and maintain industrial robots, including their programming and operation, is becoming increasingly important.

Automation Systems: Maintenance technicians need to be able to work with various automation systems, including programmable logic controllers (PLCs).

Electrical, Mechanical, and Hydraulic Systems: A solid understanding of these systems is necessary for diagnosing and repairing various equipment.

Yes, this course has several lessons on quality, continuous process improvement, Lean, and Six Sigma.

In traditional manufacturing, maintenance technicians primarily focus on manual repairs, routine inspections, and reactive maintenance of mechanical systems with limited automation. The work typically involves hands-on troubleshooting of older equipment using basic tools and mechanical knowledge. In contrast, advanced manufacturing requires technicians to work with highly automated systems, including robotics, PLCs, and sensor-driven equipment. These roles demand a higher level of technical expertise in electronics, automation, and data analysis, as technicians support predictive maintenance using digital tools and diagnostics.

This course incorporates elements of both traditional and advanced manufacturing.

Yes, this course will prepare you for an entry-level role as a maintenance technician, equipment maintenance technician, industrial mechanic technician, manufacturing maintenance technician, plant maintenance technician, or factory maintenance worker.

This course covers robotics and automation, which are both trends in advanced manufacturing.

This course provides you with the vocational training that meets the qualifications of an entry-level maintenance technician by providing:

  • Basic knowledge of tools, mechanical systems, and safety practices
  • Ability to perform simple repairs, use hand/power tools, and follow instructions
  • Understanding of basic electrical, plumbing, or HVAC systems (a plus)

The maintenance technician program provides a great foundation for those who aspire for more advanced positions such as maintenance mechanic, lead maintenance technician, maintenance manager, or maintenance project management. 

This course is open enrollment, so you can register and start the course as soon as you are ready. Access to your course can take 24-48 business hours.

This course is self-paced and open enrollment, so you can start when you want and finish at your own pace. When you register, you'll receive eighteen (18) months to complete the course.

The time allotted for course completion has been calculated based on the number of course hours. However, if you are unable to complete the course, contact the student advising team to see what options you may have available to work out a suitable completion date. Please note that an extension fee may be charged.

Our courses are designed to accommodate various learning preferences. Depending on the course structure, you may get different forms of support. Self-paced courses are designed to be user-friendly and independent, minimizing the need for external support. In courses with instructors, our direct platform support feature includes opportunities for questions, discussions, and remediation, with email and phone support available for select courses. Our student advising team is available to guide you on program requirements and administrative requests, but they do not provide assistance with course content. Our goal is to provide you with the necessary support for success, whether it's through self-paced exploration, direct communication, or guidance from our advising team.

Upon successful completion of the course, you will be awarded a Certificate of Completion.

This course will provide you with the skills you need to obtain an entry-level position in most cases. Potential students should always do research on the job market in their area before registering.

This course is non-credit, so it does not qualify for federal aid, FAFSA and Pell Grant. In some states, vocational rehab or workforce development boards will pay for qualified students to take our courses. Additionally, some students may qualify for financial assistance when they enroll, if they meet certain requirements. Financing is available from select schools. Learn more about financial assistance.

If you have questions that are not answered on our website, representatives are available via LIVE chat. You can also call us at 1-877-221-5151 during regular business hours to have your questions promptly answered. If you are visiting us during non-business hours, please send us a question using the "Contact Us" form.