A bachelor's of science (B.S.) degree in engineering or a related field is usually required to become a maintenance engineer, and most companies prefer several years of experience in some aspect of the field. An enhanced knowledge of mathematics, design, construction, physics, and technology is needed to become a maintenance engineer because of the field's technical complexities. Students can begin preparing for this career by excelling in math and science as well as taking an interest in various current engineering projects. There are engineering fairs and programs that young adults can volunteer or participate in to increase his or her understanding of the industry.
The B.S. degree can be achieved by attending and successfully completing a four year university engineering program. Aside from general coursework, students should focus on specialized courses in engineering, which may include engineering graphics, engineering mechanics, thermodynamics, circuit analysis, and fundamentals of computer engineering. Many universities have engineering clubs, events, and competitions that students can join in order to gain the experience necessary to become a maintenance engineer. Some students who are involved in these extra curricular activities discover available internships with companies that employ maintenance engineers. Any additional experience will assist applicants to become a maintenance engineer, and most companies value this as a portion of training.
Some students choose to continue his or her education in order to obtain a master's degree in engineering, which may result in a higher paying position as well as advanced job placement. The alternative to an additional degree is usually seeking a job as an apprentice to a senior engineer in order to gain the required experience needed to become a maintenance engineer. Most companies review past experience and expect two to three years of work in the field. Internships and other work in the field can reduce the amount of time that he or she may have to train before starting a career.
The duties of this career vary depending on the hiring company. Responsibilities usually include designing, planning, supervising construction and continuous maintenance of a structure, inspecting project sites, administering technical advice, and working closely with builders, architects, and other industry professionals. Potential employees should have coordination, reading, writing, compensation, and communication skills. Teamwork is equally important because complex building structures require cooperation, consultation, and agreement on all components that allow the structure to function. There are additional training and refresher programs that assist employees to remain up-to-date on industrial innovations.