Maintenance Technician - (Union: Helper A)

ZipRecruiter; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading property management company is seeking a Helper A to ensure the cleanliness and safety of various property areas. This role involves performing maintenance tasks, responding to work orders, and participating in emergency schedules. The ideal candidate will have a high school diploma, relevant experience, and the ability to lift 50 pounds. Bilingual skills in English and Spanish are preferred. Join a dedicated team committed to maintaining high standards of service and safety.

Qualifications

• At least 3 years of relevant maintenance and repair experience.
• Bilingual in English/Spanish may be preferred.

Responsibilities

• Maintain cleanliness and safety of public areas and vacant units.
• Perform minor repairs and assist with groundskeeping activities.
• Participate in standby emergency schedules for maintenance.

Skills

Customer Service

Teamwork

Safety Conscious

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Hand Tools

Power Tools

Job description

SUMMARY

The Helper A is a union-represented position responsible for maintaining the cleanliness and safety of exteriors, public areas, vacant units, sidewalks, and alleyways of the property. The role involves timely work order service, quality make-ready programs, and cost-effective inventory control. Additionally, the Helper A assists with basic maintenance tasks such as groundskeeping and janitorial duties as needed. The position requires participation in a rotational '24-hour on-call' schedule.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

1. Complete tasks assigned by the Head or Assistant Head Janitor or property manager.
2. Participate in standby emergency schedules for evenings, weekends, and holidays.
3. Perform scheduled maintenance on equipment according to manufacturers’ guidelines.
4. Inspect units, buildings, and public areas; perform repairs and janitorial assistance as needed.
5. Check and replace exterior and hallway lighting, including public areas.
6. Understand water and gas meter cutoffs, fixture cutoffs, and sewer cleanouts.
7. Maintain cleanliness of offices, maintenance rooms, hallways, porches, laundry rooms, basements, backyard, and exterior of buildings.
8. Perform minor painting, plumbing, electrical wiring, and related maintenance tasks using hand tools.
9. Clean and replace HVAC filters.
10. Ensure storage areas and entrances are secure and well-lit.
11. Assist with apartment move-in and move-out inspections and unit turnover.
12. Repair furnaces and minor plumbing and electrical issues.
13. Participate in maintenance projects and perform light electrical and plumbing repairs.
14. Replace broken glass, tiles, carpets, screens, fixtures, appliances, draperies, and locks.
15. Perform interior and exterior painting.
16. Carry out carpentry tasks such as fitting doors, replacing windows, and building or sanding shelves.
17. Assist with custodial work including sweeping, mopping, vacuuming, trash removal, and window cleaning.
18. Assist groundskeeping activities like snow removal, lawn care, and gardening.
19. Repair concrete, masonry, roofs, and fencing as needed.
20. Perform limited extermination services when required.
21. Report concerns to supervisors.
22. Follow safety standards, OSHA regulations, and health codes; maintain a clean work area daily.
23. Assist at other properties as necessary.
24. Perform additional duties as assigned.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

None, except when filling in for the Head or Assistant Head Janitor, where direct maintenance staff and contract workers may be supervised.

The work environment may include outdoor, indoor, office, and field settings, often requiring work in various weather conditions and environments. Ability to handle interruptions and shifting priorities is essential. The role may involve dealing with difficult individuals with professionalism and diplomacy.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The job requires standing, walking, using hands, reaching, lifting (up to 50 pounds), bending, squatting, climbing, and crawling. Use of hand and power tools, chemicals, and paints is involved. Reasonable accommodations can be provided. Punctuality and attendance are mandatory, with evening and weekend work as scheduled. Travel for emergency supply procurement may be required.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• At least 3 years of relevant maintenance and repair experience.
• Minimum one year of customer service and apartment maintenance experience.
• UPC inspection certification or ability to obtain it.
• Trustworthy, personable, and safety-conscious.
• Ability to work in various areas including janitorial, custodial, gardening, and painting.
• Union certifications as required.
• Ability to lift 50 pounds.
• Bilingual in English/Spanish may be preferred.
• Own tools required; valid vehicle, insurance, and driving record.
• Willingness to travel as needed.

UNION REPRESENTATION

This position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement with SEIU Local 1.

SUCCESS FACTORS

• Knowledge of safety policies and procedures.
• Excellent customer service and professionalism.
• Effective prioritization and timely completion of work orders.
• Timeliness and ability to work independently.
• Teamwork and cultural sensitivity.
• Commitment to continuing education (8 hours annually).
• Ability to handle and diffuse complex issues diplomatically.