Career Profile: Industrial Machinery Mechanics

Salary and Outlook

According to the US Department of Labor, there are 384,800 people employed as industrial machinery mechanics in the United States. The median annual salary is $59,840. Entry level employees earn approximately $37,370 per year and senior employees earn approximately $79,270 per year.

Estimates do not include other potential benefits such as health insurance, overtime, or retirement benefits that may be offered by employers.

Job Duties

• Observe and test the operation of machinery or equipment to diagnose malfunctions, using voltmeters or other testing devices.
• Analyze test results, machine error messages, or information obtained from operators to diagnose equipment problems.
• Study blueprints or manufacturers' manuals to determine correct installation or operation of machinery.
• Cut and weld metal to repair broken metal parts, fabricate new parts, or assemble new equipment.
• Enter codes and instructions to program computer-controlled machinery.
• Demonstrate equipment functions and features to machine operators.
• Assign schedules to work crews.
• Repair or maintain the operating condition of industrial production or processing machinery or equipment.
• Repair or replace broken or malfunctioning components of machinery or equipment.
• Clean, lubricate, or adjust parts, equipment, or machinery.
• Disassemble machinery or equipment to remove parts and make repairs.
• Reassemble equipment after completion of inspections, testing, or repairs.
• Examine parts for defects, such as breakage or excessive wear.
• Record repairs and maintenance performed.
• Operate newly repaired machinery or equipment to verify the adequacy of repairs.
• Record parts or materials used and order or requisition new parts or materials, as necessary.

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