How to Become a Maintenance Technician in Vermont

Becoming a maintenance technician in Vermont can lead to steady work in manufacturing, healthcare, education, and public facilities.

You can even get specialized training to work on a ski tram!

Most roles require mechanical and electrical skills, plus the ability to troubleshoot under pressure.

Whether you train through a technical college or on the job, Vermont offers strong employment potential for skilled tradespeople who keep operations running year-round in all kinds of weather.

Steps to Become a Maintenance Technician in Vermont

Here’s the ideal path to becoming a maintenance technician in Vermont.

Know that most jobs require a Vermont driver’s license and a reliable form of transportation.

1. Get a high school degree. That could be a diploma or a GED. Those still in high school should focus on STEM classes and any “hands-on” opportunities, like in the school shop. Also, consider getting a head start on college credits through a vocational program.
2. Enroll in a technical school associate’s program or certificate program. In Vermont, you can pursue general maintenance technician training or go for specialized skills, like maintaining ski lifts or working in industrial settings.
3. Look for apprenticeships. The first few years of being a maintenance technician require hands-on learning through mentorship. An apprenticeship can give candidates a chance to learn the ropes without being put under too much stress too quickly. Check out the state of Vermont Apprenticeship Program to learn more.
4. Look for professional groups to join in Vermont. Maintenance technicians can connect through the Vermont Manufacturing Extension Center (VMEC) for training and industry insights, or the Associated General Contractors of Vermont for construction-related networking. The International Union of Operating Engineers Local 98 provides certifications, job leads, and member support.
5. Look to expand your skills. You might want to get a look at the career landscape before jumping into niche industries, but you might get higher salary points if you specialize in skills like HVAC, electricity, and plumbing. You can always enroll in additional certification programs down the road.
6. Build a personal tools kit. You’ll want to start doing this as soon as possible and build up a good tool kit to perform your job duties. Not all employers will provide the necessary tools. You can search job descriptions to see what items should be in your toolbox.

Licensing Requirements to Become a Maintenance Technician in Vermont

Vermont doesn’t have a single statewide license just for “maintenance technician,” but certain tasks require specific credentials.

If your work involves electrical, plumbing, or HVAC systems, you’ll need the proper state-issued trade license in that field.

Here are a few examples:

• Lead-Safe RRPM Supervisor: $50/year
• Lead-Safe RRPM Firm: $300/5 years
• Dairy Equipment/Specialty Technician: $30 initial, $30 every 3 years
• HVAC/Electrical: Varies (EPA ~$75, ES license $115 initial, renewal fees apply)
• Asbestos/Lead Abatement: $60–$120 annually or biennially
• Elevator Mechanic: $75, renewed every 2 years

Employers may also expect OSHA safety training or certification in specialized equipment.

Always check Vermont’s Office of Professional Regulation and Department of Public Safety requirements before starting, since licensing rules can change and vary depending on the type of facility and work you’ll be doing.

Maintenance Technician Programs in Vermont

Whether you want to pursue general maintenance work or focus on specific industries, there are plenty of educational options in Vermont that don’t include a four-year degree.

Vermont State University

This virtual offering through Vermont State University is a Maintenance Technician Training Course.

The self-guided program generally takes 18 months and includes 250 course hours.

The program costs $1,695.

Other programs include:

• HVAC Technician
• CNC Machinist
• Electrical & Electronics Technician
• Process Technician

NOTE: This program is offered through the ed2go program, which is also available at community colleges and vocational schools statewide.

Ski Vermont

While not a traditional education, the Tramway Maintenance Technician Apprenticeship Program spans three years.

Selected candidates will get 6,000 hours of work experience while also spending time in a classroom setting.

You’ll need to be employed by a ski resort in Vermont to qualify for this program, but other than that, the only requirements are being 18 years or older.

Vermont Technical College

The Vermont Technical College Industrial Maintenance Apprenticeship is a hands-on training program designed for those looking to build or advance their maintenance skills without needing an employer sponsor.

It’s structured into three levels, starting with Introduction to Engineering, then moving into Electrical Circuits, and finishing with Advanced Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs).

This progression gives students a solid foundation in mechanical, electrical, and automation systems, preparing them for a variety of maintenance technician roles.

Better yet?

Regular tuition doesn’t apply, and you’ll earn a paycheck during your training.

Salary for Maintenance Technicians in Vermont

According to Salary.com, the average salary for a maintenance technician in Vermont is $61,000.

On the low end, expect to make around $50,000.

The maintenance technician’s salary peaks at $75,000.

Over the next decade, maintenance technician job growth is expected to be 5%, about average for all occupations.

Regional Salary in Vermont

Maintenance Technician by State