General maintenance mechanics, sometimes called maintenance technicians or building engineers, repair and maintain machines, mechanical equipment, and buildings, and work on plumbing, electrical, and controls. They also do minor construction or carpentry work and routine preventive maintenance to keep the physical structures of businesses, schools, factories, and apartment buildings in good condition. They also maintain and repair specialized equipment and machinery found in cafeterias, laundries, hospitals, offices, and factories. There are more than 1.2 million general maintenance mechanics employed in the United States, working in almost every industry.