SOC 49-9043
Maintenance Workers, Machinery
Risk Score
โ ๏ธ58/100
Elevated
US Employment
๐ฅ56,540
Total workers
Median Wage
๐ฐ$61K
$40K โ $84K
Projected Growth
๐-2.8%
2023-2033 (BLS)
GenAI Exposure
๐ค24/100
Low exposure
๐ก Maintenance Workers, Machinery face a risk score of 58/100 โ 14 points above the national average of 44. With only 24/100 GenAI exposure, most core tasks remain resistant to current AI capabilities. See our methodology โ
๐ก Workers in this field earn $61K ($14K above the national median). The 3 recommended career transitions all maintain competitive wages while reducing automation exposure. Explore transition paths โ
๐ AI Impact Analysis
With a risk score of 58/100, Maintenance Workers, Machinery faces moderate automation pressure. While tasks like augmented reality-guided remote diagnostics are increasingly handled by AI, the role retains significant human elements. The 56,540 workers in this occupation should focus on strengthening skills in adapting repairs to non-standard or legacy equipment and customer communication about technical issues to stay ahead. The role will likely evolve rather than disappear.
Will AI Replace Maintenance Workers, Machinery?
Read our full analysis with verdict, risk factors, safe tasks, and career transition paths โ
โ ๏ธ Top Risk Factors
Augmented reality-guided remote diagnostics
Predictive maintenance AI reducing reactive repair needs
AI parts inventory and supply chain optimization
Automated fault detection via IoT sensor networks
๐ก๏ธ Tasks Safe from Automation
Adapting repairs to non-standard or legacy equipment
Customer communication about technical issues
Working in confined, elevated, or hazardous spaces
Diagnosing novel equipment failures through physical inspection
๐ Task Automation Breakdown
Based on O*NET task analysis and GenAI exposure scoring. Shows the estimated proportion of this occupation's core tasks that are automatable by current AI, augmented by AI tools, or require essential human skills.
๐ O*NET Task Profile
Dismantle machines and remove parts for repair, using hand tools, chain falls, jacks, cranes, or hoists.
Reassemble machines after the completion of repair or maintenance work.
Record production, repair, and machine maintenance information.
Lubricate or apply adhesives or other materials to machines, machine parts, or other equipment according to specified procedures.
Install, replace, or change machine parts and attachments, according to production specifications.
๐ป Technology Skills
Facilities management software
Data base user interface and query software
Enterprise resource planning ERP software
Spreadsheet software
Office suite software
๐ Key Knowledge Areas
Mechanical
Production and Processing
Administration and Management
English Language
Design
๐ vs National Average
National avg: $46K
National avg: 44/100
National avg: 38/100
National avg: 3.7%
๐ Career Transition Paths
| Occupation | Risk | Wage | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engineers | 20 | $106K | 61% |
| Electrical Power-Line Installers and Repairers | 28 | $93K | 75% |
| Supervisors of Installation, Maintenance, and Repair Workers | 33 | $78K | 80% |