MAINTENANCE ASSISTANT

About the Role

The Maintenance Assistant assists in planning, organizing, developing, and directing the overall operation of the Maintenance Department to ensure the facility is maintained in a safe and comfortable manner, in accordance with current federal, state, and local standards.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate maintenance services and activities with other departments.
• Report and make recommendations to the Administrator regarding Maintenance Department operations.
• Assist in establishing a preventive maintenance program.
• Repair facility and resident property; coordinate with outside vendors for repairs or replacements when necessary.
• Ensure outside vendor services are completed according to contracts or work orders.
• Identify, evaluate, and classify routine and job-related maintenance tasks, particularly those involving potential exposure to blood or body fluids.
• Inspect storage rooms, workrooms, utility/janitorial closets, and other areas for upkeep and supply control.
• Participate in facility surveys by authorized government agencies and develop corrective plans for maintenance deficiencies.
• Stay informed about economic conditions and recommend adjustments to maintenance services as needed.
• Maintain confidentiality of resident protected health information and report violations.
• Supervise safety and fire protection programs, inspecting work areas and equipment weekly.
• Ensure proper use of safety equipment (e.g., back braces, mechanical lifts) when handling heavy objects.
• Maintain supplies and equipment to ensure a safe and comfortable environment; report damage promptly.
• Assist in developing and implementing waste disposal policies for the maintenance department.
• Monitor maintenance procedures to ensure efficient use of supplies and prevent waste.
• Ensure availability and accessibility of personal protective equipment for handling infectious materials.
• Properly label or tag equipment contaminated with blood or infectious materials before repair or decontamination.
• Handle emergencies, such as rescheduling maintenance tasks as needed.
• Ensure proper disposal of medical waste according to facility procedures.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Knowledge of boilers, compressors, generators, and mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints.
• Knowledge of building codes and safety regulations.
• Ability to read, write, speak, and understand English.
• Ability to make independent decisions when necessary.
• Strong interpersonal skills to interact tactfully with personnel, residents, family members, visitors, and government agencies.

Physical Demands

• Ability to move intermittently throughout the workday.
• Must function independently, with flexibility, personal integrity, and the ability to work effectively with residents, personnel, and support agencies.
• Must meet health requirements, including a medical and physical examination.
• Ability to work with ill, disabled, elderly, emotionally upset, or hostile individuals.
• Ability to push, pull, move, or lift a minimum of 25 pounds to a height of 5 feet and carry such weight a minimum of 50 feet.
• May be required to assist in evacuating residents during emergencies.