Maintenance Engineer Jobs

Maintenance Engineers are vital across many sectors, including manufacturing, food production, energy, facilities management, and transport. Whether it’s carrying out planned preventative maintenance or responding to unexpected breakdowns, these professionals help minimise downtime and maintain safety and performance standards.

Working as a Maintenance Engineer involves much more than simply fixing faults. You’ll be diagnosing technical issues, planning maintenance schedules, and ensuring compliance with industry regulations. Many roles also offer the chance to work with advanced technologies, from automated production lines to smart building systems, making it an ideal career for those who enjoy continuous learning and practical challenges.

Explore Maintenance Engineer Jobs by Sector

While the core responsibilities remain similar, Maintenance Engineer jobs can vary depending on the type of site, industry, and systems you’ll be working with. Here are some of the main areas currently hiring Maintenance Engineers in the UK:

Manufacturing and Production

One of the largest sectors for Maintenance Engineers. These roles involve keeping machinery, conveyors, and automated equipment in peak condition to support continuous production. Employers in this field range from food and beverage manufacturers to automotive and pharmaceutical companies. Shift work is common, and reliability is key to maintaining round-the-clock operations.

Facilities Management

Facilities maintenance roles focus on keeping buildings and their systems (such as heating, ventilation, lighting, and plumbing) safe and functional. You might work across offices, schools, hospitals, or public buildings. These positions often combine mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) skills and can include both scheduled maintenance and emergency response work.

Utilities and Energy

In the utilities sector, Maintenance Engineers support critical national infrastructure, maintaining power stations, water treatment facilities, or renewable energy installations. These roles often involve high safety standards and specialised technical training, offering excellent long-term career prospects for skilled engineers.

Logistics, Warehousing, and Distribution

Large distribution centres and automated warehouses rely heavily on conveyor systems, robotics, and packaging equipment. Maintenance Engineers in this sector ensure these systems operate smoothly and respond quickly to breakdowns to minimise disruption. These jobs often suit engineers who thrive in fast-paced, technology-driven environments.

Types of Maintenance Engineer Contracts

There’s a variety of contract types available for Maintenance Engineer jobs, offering flexibility for both experienced professionals and those just starting out in the field.

Full-Time Maintenance Engineer Jobs

Full-time roles typically include consistent shifts, a structured working week, and access to employee benefits such as pension schemes, healthcare, and paid leave. These positions offer stability and are ideal for engineers seeking long-term career progression within a single company.

Shift and Rotating Schedule Roles

Many industrial and manufacturing sites operate 24/7, meaning shift patterns are common. Working days, nights, or rotating shifts can provide higher earning potential through overtime and shift allowances. These roles suit those comfortable working in dynamic environments where no two days are the same.

Contract and Temporary Engineering Work

Short-term or project-based engineering contracts are ideal for professionals who prefer flexibility or want to gain experience across multiple sectors. Temporary Maintenance Engineer jobs can be a great way to build a varied skill set and explore different technologies and industries.

Skills and Requirements for Maintenance Engineer Jobs

Employers value a mix of technical expertise, practical problem-solving ability, and attention to detail. Common skills and qualifications include:

• A recognised engineering qualification such as an NVQ, City & Guilds, or HNC/HND in mechanical, electrical, or multi-skilled maintenance
• Strong fault-finding and diagnostic skills
• Experience with PLCs, control systems, or automation (for manufacturing roles)
• Understanding of health and safety regulations
• Ability to read technical drawings and schematics
• Good communication and teamwork skills
• Flexibility to work shifts, callouts, or weekend cover when required

Some employers may also require additional certifications, such as 18th Edition for electrical engineers, or experience working with specific systems like HVAC, hydraulics, or pneumatics.

Maintenance Engineer Jobs FAQ

What Does a Maintenance Engineer Do?

A Maintenance Engineer is responsible for maintaining, repairing, and improving machinery, equipment, or building systems. The role may include routine inspections, diagnosing faults, replacing components, and ensuring all work meets health and safety standards.

Do I Need a Specific Qualification to Apply?

Most Maintenance Engineer roles require an engineering qualification in a relevant discipline, typically mechanical or electrical. Some employers also accept candidates with equivalent experience gained through apprenticeships or military engineering backgrounds.

How Much Do Maintenance Engineers Earn?

Maintenance Engineer salaries vary depending on experience, sector, and location. Average pay typically ranges between £35,000 and £45,000 per year, with higher rates available for multi-skilled engineers or shift-based roles. Overtime, bonuses, and on-call allowances can further boost earnings.

Can I Progress from a Maintenance Engineer Role?

Yes. Many Maintenance Engineers advance to roles such as Engineering Supervisor, Maintenance Manager, or Reliability Engineer. Others move into specialist technical positions or project management. With additional training, you could also transition into design, automation, or energy management roles.