Maintenance Lead

Together SC; Summerville (SC); On-site; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

IPPL in Summerville, SC seeks a Maintenance Lead to provide hands-on leadership for the maintenance team, supporting facility operations, animal habitats, and safety initiatives. This role balances day-to-day activities with strategic planning and emergency responsiveness.

The position requires 40 hours per week, including some weekends and after-hours responses to emergencies, with responsibilities spanning preventive maintenance, habitat construction and regulatory compliance.

Qualifications

• 2+ years in a supervisory role within facility maintenance.
• Trade proficiency in electrical, plumbing, HVAC and carpentry; vocational certification preferred.
• Proven ability to use CMMS for work orders and asset tracking.
• Ability to lift 50 lbs, climb ladders, and work outdoors in varying weather.
• Valid driver's license and clean driving record.
• Provide proof of negative TB test and current vaccinations for working near primates.

Responsibilities

• Lead, train, and supervise the maintenance team; coordinate daily activities and performance.
• Collaborate with Curator to develop maintenance schedules and manage CMMS work orders.
• Perform routine and preventive maintenance on buildings, grounds, and critical systems (electrical, plumbing, HVAC).
• Lead habitat construction/refurbishment and enforce containment and security protocols.
• Ensure compliance with USDA, OSHA and other standards; lead safety briefings and emergency procedures.
• Plan long-term maintenance strategies and manage inventory of supplies/tools.
• Coordinate maintenance requests, supervise external contractors, and provide weekly project reports.

Skills

Facility maintenance

Supervisory experience

Electrical

Plumbing

HVAC

Carpentry

Problem solving

Communication

Work order systems

Education

Trade certification

Tools

CMMS

Inventory software

Job description

Position: Maintenance Lead provides essential leadership for the maintenance team and supports the Curator of Facilities and Animal Habitats at IPPL. While remaining highly hands-on, this position serves as the primary point of contact for day-to-day activities, ensuring optimal facility function and the safety and well-being of our primate residents. This role requires a 40-hour work week, including some weekend work and the ability to respond to emergencies outside of regular hours.

Responsibilities:

• Team Leadership and Supervision: Lead, train, and guide the maintenance team to foster a collaborative and efficient work environment. This includes coordinating daily activities, delegating tasks, and monitoring progress to ensure high-quality completion. Manage the full employee lifecycle, including hiring, onboarding, performance management, and professional growth.
• Operational Management and Systems Maintenance: Collaborate with the Curator to develop and implement efficient maintenance schedules and procedures. Manage and prioritize work orders using the CMMS platform and conduct regular inspections to address infrastructure needs proactively. Perform routine and preventative maintenance on all buildings, grounds, and critical systems, including electrical, plumbing, and HVAC.
• Habitat Construction and Animal Security: Lead the construction, maintenance, and refurbishment of species-specific animal habitats. Prioritize and enforce strict containment protocols, performing rigorous inspections of primary enclosures, shift doors, and perimeter fencing to ensure 100% security for the residents and staff.
• Safety and Regulatory Compliance: Ensure all repairs and groundskeeping tasks comply with USDA, OSHA, and other relevant regulatory standards. Lead safety briefings and training sessions, promoting strict adherence to all protocols. Serve as a core member of the facility emergency response team, assisting in the development and execution of emergency procedures.
• Planning and Inventory Management: Collaborate on long-term maintenance strategies and capital improvement plans. Manage the inventory of supplies and tools, researching and procuring new equipment or techniques to improve the sanctuary’s operational effectiveness.
• Communication and Coordination: Serve as the primary liaison for maintenance requests from other departments. Supervise external contractors to ensure quality work and compliance with animal safety protocols. Provide clear weekly reporting on project updates and maintain comprehensive digital records of all maintenance tasks.

Qualifications:

• Experience in facility maintenance with 2+ years in a supervisory/lead role.
• Trade proficiency in electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and carpentry; vocational certification preferred.
• Proven proficiency in general building trades, including electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and carpentry.
• Advanced problem-solving and critical-thinking skills with the ability to develop "out-of-the-box" solutions for complex issues.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to foster positive relationships across departments.
• Proficiency with digital tools for work orders, inventory management, and reporting.
• Ability to lift 50lbs and work comfortably on ladders, at heights, and outdoors in various weather conditions.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license and a clean driving record.
• Must provide proof of a negative TB test and stay current on required vaccinations for working near primates.
• A passion for animal welfare and a strong commitment to the mission of IPPL.