Maintenance Assistant

About the Role

The primary purpose of the Maintenance Assistant is to help plan, organize, and develop the overall operation of the Maintenance Department in accordance with current federal, state, and local standards, guidelines, and regulations governing our facility. This role ensures the facility is maintained in a safe and comfortable manner.

Responsibilities

• Plan, develop, organize, implement, and evaluate the Maintenance Department, its programs, and activities.
• Coordinate maintenance services and activities with other related departments.
• Report to the Administrator concerning the operation of the Maintenance Department.
• Assist in establishing a preventive maintenance program.
• Repair facility and resident property as necessary; coordinate with outside vendors for repairs or replacements when needed.
• Ensure services provided by outside vendors are properly completed and supervised in accordance with contracts or work orders.
• Identify, evaluate, and classify routine and job-related maintenance functions, particularly those involving potential exposure to blood or body fluids.
• Inspect storage rooms, workrooms, utility/janitorial closets, and other areas for upkeep.
• Participate in facility surveys (inspections) conducted by authorized government agencies.
• Review deficiencies noted during inspections and recommend adjustments to maintenance services as needed.
• Keep abreast of economic conditions and recommend adjustments to ensure a clean, safe, and comfortable environment.
• Maintain confidentiality of resident’s protected health information and report suspected violations.
• Serve on facility committees (e.g., Infection Control, Safety, QA) and provide reports as required.
• Attend department head meetings and participate in planning, conducting, and scheduling in-service training and orientation programs.
• Supervise safety and fire protection programs, inspecting work areas and equipment weekly.
• Ensure maintenance personnel follow established safety regulations and use safety equipment when handling hazardous materials or heavy objects.
• Maintain supplies and equipment to provide a safe and comfortable environment.
• Report equipment or facility damage promptly to the Director of Maintenance.
• Maintain and ensure proper labeling and storage of hazardous chemicals, including Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS).
• Train maintenance personnel on recognizing hazards and following protective measures.
• Assist in developing and implementing waste disposal policies and procedures.
• Ensure compliance with policies for the use and disposal of personal protective equipment and infectious waste.
• Monitor maintenance procedures to prevent waste and ensure efficient use of supplies.
• Label or tag equipment contaminated with blood or infectious material before repair or decontamination.
• Conduct weekly inspections of maintenance functions to ensure quality control.
• Handle emergencies, such as rescheduling maintenance work.
• Dispose of medical waste in accordance with facility procedures.
• Report all accidents or incidents, no matter how minor.
• Follow proper techniques for mixing chemicals, disinfectants, and cleaning solutions.
• Use appropriate personal protective equipment when handling infectious materials, hazardous wastes, or chemicals.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• High school education or equivalent.
• Experience with long-term care facilities is preferred.
• Knowledge of boilers, compressors, generators, and various mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints.
• Ability to follow written and oral instructions for mixing cleaning compounds and disinfecting solutions.
• Knowledge of building codes and safety regulations is preferable.
• Licensed in accordance with current applicable standards, codes, and labor laws.
• Ability to read, write, speak, and understand English.
• Ability to make independent decisions when circumstances warrant.
• Ability to deal tactfully with personnel, residents, family members, visitors, and government agencies.
• Knowledge of maintenance practices, procedures, and regulations governing nursing care facilities is preferred.
• Ability to maintain supplies, equipment, and the appearance of maintenance areas.
• Patience, tact, and a cheerful disposition; willingness to work with residents at varying maturity levels.
• Ability to carry out programs in repair, new construction, and equipment installation.
• Ability to work harmoniously with other personnel.

Physical Demands

• Ability to move intermittently throughout the workday.
• Ability to function independently, with flexibility, personal integrity, and the ability to work effectively with residents, personnel, and support agencies.
• Must meet general health requirements, including a medical and physical examination.
• Ability to work with ill, disabled, elderly, emotionally upset, and potentially 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 the evacuation of residents during emergencies.