Summary
Washington’s booming manufacturing and logistics industries are driving unprecedented demand for Industrial Maintenance Technicians and Millwrights. From new warehouses and food-processing plants to major construction and refinery projects, employers such as Niagara Bottling (Puyallup), Matrix Service (Tacoma), and Transco Northwest (Kent) are hiring skilled tradespeople to maintain and repair critical machinery.
This guide explains what these trades do, how to enter the field through Washington’s registered apprenticeships and technical colleges, and why now is the ideal time to train for a stable, high-paying industrial career.
(Learn more about the Top 25 Trades in Washington State)
Why Washington Needs More Industrial Maintenance Technicians
Across the Puget Sound region and beyond, investment in manufacturing, food production, distribution centers, and clean-energy infrastructure continues to grow.
Each new facility requires teams of maintenance specialists capable of troubleshooting complex automated systems, conveyors, and robotics.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 13 percent national growth rate (2024–2034) for industrial machinery mechanics — much faster than average — translating to over 54,000 annual openings.
Washington mirrors this trend as plants in Puyallup, Tacoma, Kent, and Spokane expand to meet consumer demand.
What Industrial Maintenance Technicians and Millwrights Do
Industrial maintenance technicians and millwrights keep manufacturing lines, refineries, and material-handling systems operating safely and efficiently.
Typical duties include:
- Installing, aligning, and repairing industrial machinery
- Performing preventive maintenance and machine rebuilds
- Reading blueprints, schematics, and mechanical drawings
- Operating lifts and precision measuring tools
- Troubleshooting hydraulic, pneumatic, and electrical systems
Millwrights often specialize in precision installation and alignment of heavy industrial equipment, while maintenance technicians focus on ongoing system upkeep and repair.
Examples of Real Washington Employers
Niagara Bottling – Puyallup, WA
The company’s Maintenance Apprenticeship Program (MAP) trains new technicians through paid, full-time classroom and on-the-job learning. Apprentices assist in equipment rebuilds, preventive maintenance, and troubleshooting production lines while earning competitive wages and benefits.
Matrix Service Inc. – Tacoma, WA
Industrial Maintenance Mechanic Journeypersons earn $43–$65 per hour, working on refinery and turnaround projects. The role requires 8,000 craft-related hours or journeyperson certification, strong safety credentials, and hands-on mechanical experience.
Transco Northwest Inc. – Kent, WA
Transco has provided bulk-handling systems for 50 years and hires millwright mechanics at $20–$40 per hour. Employees repair, install, and maintain conveyor systems, with full health, dental, vision, PTO, and 401(k) matching.
Millwright Local 96 – Kent, WA
Union millwrights receive paid apprenticeships, ongoing training, and community support. Local 96 offers pathways to earn journeyperson status while working statewide on industrial, energy, and construction projects.
How to Become a Maintenance Technician or Millwright in Washington
1. Earn a High School Diploma or GED
Math, shop, and physics classes provide a strong foundation. Many employers also value basic computer and drafting skills.
2. Enroll in a Technical College or Trade Program
Programs such as Bellingham Technical College’s Industrial Maintenance and Mechatronics AAS or Clover Park Technical College’s Construction and Trades pathways teach electrical systems, hydraulics, PLCs, and blueprint reading.
3. Apply for a Registered Apprenticeship
Washington L&I lists approved apprenticeships at
https://www.lni.wa.gov/licensing-permits/apprenticeship/become-an-apprentice.
Millwright apprenticeships typically last 3–4 years and combine 8,000–10,000 hours of paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction.
4. Earn Industry Certifications
Employers value credentials such as:
- NCCER Millwright or Industrial Maintenance Mechanic certification
- OSHA 10/30 Safety Training
- TWIC Card for refinery or port work
5. Gain Experience and Advance
Experienced technicians can progress to lead mechanic, maintenance supervisor, or industrial engineer roles. Many union programs also recognize GI Bill® benefits, offering additional tax-free stipends to veterans in apprenticeship training.
Average Salary and Career Outlook
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the 2024 median pay for industrial machinery mechanics, maintenance workers, and millwrights was $63,510 per year ($30.53 per hour).
Washington’s major employers frequently pay above this range $43–$65 per hour for journeypersons and $20–$40 per hour for apprentices and early-career technicians depending on location and industry.
Why This Career Is a Smart Choice in Washington
- High Demand: Expanding industrial and logistics facilities across Pierce, King, and Snohomish Counties
- Strong Earnings: Apprentices start earning immediately with benefits
- Career Mobility: Skills transfer easily between manufacturing, utilities, and construction sectors
- Community Support: Unions and colleges provide continuous education and job placement assistance
Start Your Path Today
Interested in joining Washington’s growing industrial workforce?
Explore training and apprenticeship options through:
- Bellingham Technical College Industrial Maintenance & Mechatronics
- Clover Park Technical College Trades Programs
- WA Department of Labor & Industries Apprenticeships
- Millwright Local 96 Apprenticeship Information
Washington’s industrial future is expanding and so is the need for skilled maintenance professionals who can keep it running.
