Where Have All the Maintenance Techs Gone?
Keeping machinery running takes skill, diligence and in-depth technical know-how. That’s why reliable maintenance technicians are highly valued in the manufacturing world. When breakdowns strike, they troubleshoot and fix issues to minimise costly downtime.
Why are so many companies struggling to recruit these valuable team members lately? There’s no single answer, but examining industry trends provides insight.
What Maintenance Technicians Do
These trained specialists handle regular upkeep of all equipment and tools to prevent problems. Daily tasks involve inspecting, testing, cleaning and replacing worn parts across the production line.
When issues inevitably crop up, maintenance technicians use their analytical abilities and mechanical expertise to diagnose and address them. They combine an eagle eye for detail with strong technical skills and problem-solving abilities.
Distinguishing Maintenance Roles
While maintenance techs handle practical, hands-on upkeep, maintenance engineers take a more strategic view. Engineers develop systems to optimise equipment performance long-term. They may create maintenance plans, determine when parts need swapping, and work with suppliers to procure replacements.
Why the Shortage?
If maintenance techs are so vital, why the hiring difficulties? A perfect storm of factors has created the current situation:
● Technical Skills Deficit - An engineering shortage allows techs to command top salaries. Candidates lack incentive to switch jobs without significant raises.
● Apprenticeship Decline - Apprenticeships historically supplied manufacturing with skilled tradespeople. But numbers dropped as industries like retail and healthcare offered more programmes.
● Automation Advances - Machinery automation seems like a cure-all, but more technology means more potential maintenance needs. When new systems falter, demand for human expertise spikes again.
Finding the Talent You Need
Maintenance professionals with the right credentials - extensive knowledge, communication talent, sharp problem-solving and teamwork skills - still exist. Here’s how to secure them:
● Leverage Specialist Recruiters - Recruitment consultancies specific to manufacturing fields maintain pipelines of passive but skilled candidates open to new roles.
● Boost Employer Brand - Highlight development opportunities and other enticing benefits to attract top performers. Fix any issues flagged in online reviews.
● Optimise Hiring Process - Ask competency-based questions during efficient, transparent interviewing. Utilise behavioural assessments. Stay closely engaged throughout onboarding.
With insider access and a stellar reputation, securing your next maintenance superstar will become easier, enabling you to meet production goals and keep your operation running like clockwork.
As a specialist recruitment consultancy, we can deliver quality and safe turnkey solutions to your maintenance staffing challenges. Get in touch to discuss how we can help.
