Service Manager

About the Role

As the Service Manager, you are responsible for leading the maintenance team and ensuring the physical integrity, safety, and overall functionality of a multimillion-dollar multifamily community. You oversee all maintenance operations, guide preventative programs, manage workflow and staffing, and ensure timely, high-quality service that supports resident satisfaction and asset preservation. This role combines strong technical expertise with leadership, organization, and exceptional customer service.

Maintenance Leadership & Technical Expertise

• Diagnose and resolve complex maintenance issues across electrical, plumbing, HVAC, appliance, structural, lighting, and security systems.
• Ensure the community operates efficiently by proactively identifying areas needing repair or improvement.
• Guide the team in anticipating and preventing resident issues through consistent upkeep and early problem detection.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for creating a safe, reliable, and worry-free living environment.

Team Management & Performance Oversight

• Support a team of maintenance technicians, ensuring timely, high-quality completion of routine maintenance and repairs.
• Provide training, guidance, and mentorship, encouraging adherence to safety protocols and company standards.
• Assign and prioritize daily tasks, inspect completed work, and step into complete hands-on repairs when necessary.
• Promote a strong safety culture with continuous attention to hazards, preventative actions, and compliance.
• Help manage the on-call rotation and provide support during emergency situations.

Organization, Budget & Vendor Coordination

• Oversee service request management, preventive maintenance schedules, and maintenance records.
• Track, manage, and allocate the maintenance budget, ensuring efficient use of resources.
• Maintain supply and parts inventory to support timely completion of work orders.
• Coordinate with outside vendors, ensuring timely, quality service and adherence to scope and budget.

Qualifications

• 3-5+ years of experience in maintenance, including carpentry, plumbing, electrical, and HVAC; Multifamily experience preferred.
• High school diploma or equivalent required; technical training or college coursework preferred.
• Leadership skills with the ability to train, mentor, and manage a maintenance team.
• Universal EPA and CPO certifications are required.
• Valid Class E driver's license.
• Knowledge of applicable laws and regulations including EPA, OSHA, ADA, and Fair Housing.
• Ability to read and interpret maintenance instructions, technical manuals, and equipment documentation.
• Strong customer-service and communication skills.
• Ability to work evenings, weekends, and participate in on-call rotations as needed.
• Physical ability to perform maintenance tasks including lifting, climbing, and working indoors/outdoors.

About Cortland

Founded in 2005, Cortland is an international, vertically integrated multifamily real estate investment, development, and management firm with a resident-centric approach to living experiences. Recognized as one of the top 10 multifamily owners and operators in the US, Cortland combines in-house design, construction, and operations to deliver value and innovation across its portfolio. Join us as we reimagine apartment living and drive outsized returns through purpose, performance, and people.