Why do you need maintenance certifications?
In a nutshell, a certification is a recognized credential that you earn. It verifies your legitimacy and competence to perform a certain job. Regardless of the industry, certifications are typically displayed as a document stating that as a professional, you’ve been trained and educated, and are now prepared to meet a specific set of criteria for your role.
Maintenance certifications can help you advance faster in your career, especially if you intend to focus on highly-specialized areas of maintenance management like HVAC, automobile, aviation, medical equipment, or industrial maintenance.
While it’s true that not all certifications are created equal, they do provide potential employers with the assurance of professional competence alongside your educational qualifications or work experience.
Just like any continuing form of maintenance education and training, certification programs require an investment of time and resources. However, they come with indisputable benefits:
They help provide recognition for your specialized knowledge or skill set, which can give you a significant edge for landing competitive jobs.
They can help increase your paycheck.
They help to establish your professional credibility and show potential employers your commitment to personal growth.
Recruiters often ask for specific certifications. Check platforms like
Indeed
,
Reed UK
, and
Glassdoor
to see what they are looking for.
The maintenance certification process
What should you expect during the certification process?
Starting a maintenance certification is relatively straightforward. Expect to fill out an online application and pay a fee before your registration is considered successful. This part of the process will often be completed for you if the certification is paid for by your firm.
Most of the maintenance certification providers don’t demand specific educational qualifications before registration, especially at the technician level. Still, we recommend that you have a high school diploma or GED because recruiters and potential employers would typically expect that. If you don’t have either but you can provide evidence of relevant experience, feel free to apply as well.
Maintenance certification classes
No matter the kind of certification you seek, the credentials are only awarded after you’ve passed the relevant assessments – obviously.
These days, the majority of certifying bodies allow you to register and pay your application fees online. After that, you can access more resources (such as these training materials provided by the SMRP). An advantage of these materials is that it is an ideal arrangement if you prefer on-demand training at your own pace.
In addition to the training content, you’ll get more information about the testing process. Some exams are held online, while others are administered via paper (or in a digital format) at approved testing locations.
Furthermore, there are several institutions and independent training centers that offer virtual classes to help people prepare for many of these exams. Before committing to any training center, it’s advisable that you do some additional digging to find out their track record and if
the provider is qualified or recognized – and if so, by whom?
After the assessment
Once you’ve passed the required exams and earned the certification, you might be given a designation (usually in the form of initials) that you can use after your name. This serves to distinguish you as a certified professional from your uncertified peers.
For example, certified maintenance managers may include the abbreviation C.M.M. after their names on a resume or in a professional forum – like Linkedin – if they choose to.
However, due to the continuous innovations, improvements, and changes in maintenance, to retain the validity of your certification, most certifying bodies will require that you renew your credentials through a periodic recertification exercise. This usually happens after a period of three to five years depending on the particular certification.
Checking control panels and electrical wiring to identify issues
Performing minor fixes such as repairing broken locks
Performing cleaning activities such as dusting, mopping etc.
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We are looking for a skilled Maintenance worker to perform upkeep tasks such as repairs and cleaning. You will be responsible for applying basic fixes to equipment and building systems and ensure facilities are tidy and functional.
Being reliable with a keen eye for detail is the first step to getting this job. The ideal candidate will have experience and solid technical knowledge. You must also possess manual dexterity and physical stamina.
Perform cleaning activities such as dusting, mopping etc.
Perform minor fixes such as repairing broken locks, filling gaps on walls etc.
Check control panels and electrical wiring to identify issues
Install appliances and equipment
Do garden/yard upkeep by mowing lawn, collecting trash etc.
Conduct maintenance tasks such as replacing light bulbs
Inspect and troubleshoot equipment and systems (e.g. ventilation)
Check functionality of safety systems (e.g. fire alarm)
Collaborate with workers and other professionals during renovations
Report to a facilities or maintenance manager for issues
Proven experience as assistant director or other similar position
Basic knowledge of HVAC, plumbing and electrical systems
Ability to read technical manuals and drawings
Very good communication and interpersonal skills
Physical stamina and dexterity
High school diploma or equivalent
Successful completion of an apprenticeship is required