by 
Maintenance technicians are the heroes of our built environments.
The job demands knowledge of mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic systems.
The work of maintenance technicians provides and supports the sound functioning of equipment and machinery.
Plus, the capability to troubleshoot problems.
The job’s challenges and rewards include troubleshooting potential problems and maintaining buildings and equipment in excellent working order.
Maintenance technicians operate in various environments to keep everything running smoothly, from apartment buildings to manufacturing plants, entertainment venues, schools, hospitals, and other institutions.
It can provide an exciting career for candidates who enjoy the challenge of utilizing different work skills every day.
As a maintenance technician, candidates experience a rewarding role as the hero behind the scenes who keeps the entire enterprise running!
The maintenance technician role is an excellent path for those who enjoy the challenge of devising preventative upkeep, maintaining equipment, and managing systems like plumbing and heating.
The responsibilities of a maintenance technician include:
- Conducting inspections.
- Performing preventive maintenance to keep things running smoothly.
- Troubleshooting and diagnosing problems with machinery or systems.
- Repairing/replacing equipment, parts, or components.
- Keeping accurate records of maintenance and repairs.
- Following safety procedures and guidelines.
Article Table of Contents
- 1 Steps to Become a Maintenance Technician in Idaho
- 2 Licensing Requirements to Become a Maintenance Technician in Idaho
- 3 Certifications
- 4 Maintenance Technician Programs in Idaho
- 5 Salary
- 6 Frequently Asked Questions
- 6.1 I've heard working as a maintenance technician can be a good, solid job. I enjoy fixing things, so my question is: How do I get started as a maintenance technician in Idaho?
- 6.2 What kinds of businesses hire maintenance technicians in Idaho?
- 6.3 How can I find out about registered apprenticeships in Idaho?
- 6.4 What are some career paths for an Idaho-based maintenance technician?
- 6.5 How long does it take to become a Maintenance Technician in the great state of Idaho?
Steps to Become a Maintenance Technician in Idaho
To become a maintenance technician, candidates should build upon a solid foundation by obtaining the necessary skill base.
Many candidates attend educational programs at a college, a community college, or a training program.
Earning a certificate in a relevant field can be helpful.
Certifications can enhance credibility, solidify skills and confidence, and impress potential employers.
One respected industry certificate is the Certified Maintenance and Reliability Technician (CMRT), which can help candidates build strong careers.
Hands-on learning experience is helpful and can be gained through recognized internships and apprenticeships.
Licensing Requirements to Become a Maintenance Technician in Idaho
To become a maintenance technician in Idaho, candidates need to meet educational and legal requirements:
- Education: High School Diploma or equivalency.
- Vocational Training: Learn skills and earn working/hands-on knowledge.
- Legal Requirements: Some maintenance technician positions may require a valid driver’s license, and others require certification in areas such as HVAC or electrical work.
Certifications
Candidates can earn a maintenance technician certification to gain skills, confidence, keep up with industry advances, and climb the vocational ladder:
- The first step is researching certification requirements in the candidate’s area of interest/specialization.
- Different certifications have their own prerequisites and qualifications.
- Look for certifications recognized and respected in the industry, including the Certified Maintenance and Reliability Technician (CMRT) certification, through the Society for Maintenance and Reliability Professionals (SMRP).
- Once candidates have identified the certification they want to earn, they should check to see if they meet the prerequisites, including education or work experience.
- Many certifications require passing an exam.
- If the certification requires an exam, preparation is essential.
- Exams may be offered at testing centers or online.
- Candidates can take a positive step by studying the certifying body’s sample exams.
- After taking and passing the exam (congratulations!), it may be necessary to maintain certification by paying fees and updating coursework.
Keep in mind that many certifications require periodic renewal by completing continuing education or professional development activities.
Maintenance Technician Programs in Idaho
College of Western Idaho
HVAC Apprenticeship
The HVAC Apprenticeship program at the College of Western Idaho (CWI) offers a way to gain a Certificate and earn.
At the same time, students learn about the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning industries.
Students gain vital knowledge and hands-on experience that fulfills the state of Idaho’s demands for apprentices, preparing them for journeyman certification through a program that unites on-the-job training and academic theory.
https://cwi.edu/program/hvac-apprenticeship
HVAC Upgrade Training
Offering a certificate, students gain advanced learning opportunities geared toward professionals in the HVAC industry.
It is a fantastic path for professionals to keep current with the latest technologies, trends, and regulations in the field.
Students earn a certificate of completion.
Other topics, such as electrical and plumbing apprenticeships and upgrade training programs, are available to help candidates advance as maintenance technicians.
https://cwi.edu/program/hvac-upgrade-training
P.O. Box 3010 / Nampa, ID 83653
(208) 562-3000
College of Eastern Idaho
Certified Maintenance and Reliability Technician Exam Prep
Students learn the skills and knowledge base of the maintenance technician and gain an all-encompassing overview of the industry.
Industrial Maintenance is divided into: General Knowledge, Electrical Knowledge, Mechanical Knowledge, Welding Knowledge, and Preventive Maintenance.
This course prepares students for the Society for Maintenance & Reliability Professionals (SMRP) Certified Maintenance & Reliability Technician (CMRT) certification exam.
1600 S 25th E / Idaho Falls, ID 83404
(208) 524-3000
https://www.cei.edu/program/certified-maintenance-and-reliability-technician-exam-prep
| School Name | Address |
|---|---|
| College of Western Idaho | 5500 E Opportunity Dr, Nampa, ID 83687, United States |
| College of Eastern Idaho | 1600 S 25th E, Idaho Falls, ID 83404, United States |
Salary
Experience, skills, specialization, company, and other factors influence how workers can increase their salaries.
In 2025, the typical salary for a maintenance technician in Idaho ranges from $51,269 to $62,939, with a median salary of $56,481.
Annual Salary Range:| Location | Avg. Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Nampa | $55,682 |
| Boise City | $50,034 |
| Meridian | $49,488 |
| Caldwell | $50,889 |
| Idaho Falls | $44,705 |
| Pocatello | $53,604 |
| Coeur d'Alene | $48,810 |
| Twin Falls | $50,858 |
| Post Falls | $49,410 |
| Rexburg | $42,868 |
Regional Salary in Idaho
| Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Boise City, ID | 3,480 | $50,200 | $24.14 | $72,020 | $34,660 |
| Coeur d'Alene, ID | 750 | $47,290 | $22.74 | $63,090 | $34,970 |
| Idaho Falls, ID | 700 | $53,020 | $25.49 | $94,270 | $30,810 |
| Lewiston, ID-WA | 290 | $49,100 | $23.61 | $62,870 | $33,860 |
| Pocatello, ID | 370 | $46,560 | $22.39 | $64,360 | $31,200 |
| Twin Falls, ID | 630 | $54,720 | $26.31 | $80,320 | $32,770 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
I've heard working as a maintenance technician can be a good, solid job. I enjoy fixing things, so my question is: How do I get started as a maintenance technician in Idaho?
A maintenance technician position can be an excellent fit for individuals with solid problem-solving skills and the ability to create and implement effective solutions.
To begin your career as a maintenance technician, you’ll want to:
Gain the proper education or training for your area of expertise.
Earn appropriate certifications for your area of interest.
And then build experience through gaining hands-on work like internships or apprenticeships.
Craft a strong resume: Highlight education, training, work experience, specialized skills, or certifications.
Network with industry pros: Strengthening relationships with others can help candidates discover job opportunities and gain referrals.
Join professional organizations or online communities.
Finally, explore job listings on industry websites, online job boards, or through your network.
What kinds of businesses hire maintenance technicians in Idaho?
Finding employment as a maintenance technician is open to many industries and settings in Idaho, regardless of the city, suburb, or town size.
Typical work environments include:
- Manufacturing plants and factories
- Residential and commercial buildings
- Hospitals and healthcare facilities
- Shopping centers and stores
- Entertainment venues.
- Schools and universities
- Resorts and hotels
How can I find out about registered apprenticeships in Idaho?
The Idaho Department of Labor has all the information candidates need to find out more about registered apprenticeships and how to gain on-the-job experience, instruction, and paid work experience while training for a vocation as a maintenance technician.
What are some career paths for an Idaho-based maintenance technician?
Here are some career paths open to maintenance technicians.
While not a definitive list, it may just get the wheels of inspiration turning!
Consider these roles for a special niche as a maintenance technician.
- Facility Maintenance Supervisor/Manager: Responsible for supervising a team, maintaining the facility’s effective and efficient operation, and coordinating maintenance activities.
- Equipment Maintenance Technician: This position is perfect for individuals with the aptitude and interest in maintaining equipment, such as HVAC systems or manufacturing machinery.
- Building Inspectors are an excellent fit for those who enjoy detail-oriented work, such as conducting inspections, reviewing construction plans, and meeting building codes and regulations.
- Maintenance Planner/Scheduler: Responsible for scheduling maintenance, controlling inventory, and overseeing resources.
- Maintenance Engineer: Responsible for investigating, assessing, and enhancing maintenance processes.
Plus, identifying and implementing solutions, and optimizing equipment performance.
How long does it take to become a Maintenance Technician in the great state of Idaho?
That depends on several variables.
Becoming a certified maintenance technician depends on educational background, experience, and the certification program a candidate selects.
Many community colleges and vocational schools offer maintenance technician programs that can be completed in six months.
The curriculum covers the foundations of maintenance technology, such as electrical and mechanical systems and troubleshooting techniques.
On average, training and certification can take several months to two years.
Maintenance Technician by State