Maintenance Technician - Covenant House Texas

• JOB TITLE: Maintenance Technician.
• DATE: October 01, 2024.
• DEPARTMENT: Operations.
• REPORTS TO: Maintenance Manager.
• CLASSIFICATION: Non- Exempt.

• Perform regular inspections of the shelter building, including common areas, offices, living spaces, bathrooms, kitchens, and outdoor areas.
• Handle routine and emergency repairs, such as fixing leaky faucets, repairing doors and windows, replacing light bulbs, and repairing broken furniture.
• Assist with the setup and maintenance of beds, furniture, and equipment in common spaces and living areas.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization in work areas, storage spaces, and maintenance equipment.

• Troubleshoot and repair plumbing issues such as clogged drains, broken pipes, leaking faucets, or malfunctioning toilets.
• Perform basic electrical repairs (e.g., replacing light switches, outlets, and light fixtures) and troubleshoot power issues.
• Assist with the maintenance of water heating systems and electrical systems within the shelter.

• Conduct regular maintenance on heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems to ensure they are operating properly.
• Replace filters, clean ducts, and troubleshoot any issues with temperature control or air quality.
• Assist in the seasonal preparation of HVAC systems for changing weather conditions.

• Ensure that fire safety systems (e.g., fire alarms, extinguishers, sprinkler systems) are regularly tested and maintained.
• Assist with emergency repairs to ensure that the shelter remains operational in case of a facility-related crisis (e.g., power outages, water damage, flooding).
• Help maintain emergency exit routes clear and in good condition, including exit signs and lighting.

• Develop and follow a schedule for preventative maintenance for all major systems and equipment (e.g., HVAC, plumbing, lighting).
• Regularly inspect the facility for potential hazards or maintenance issues that could impact the safety or comfort of residents and staff.
• Report issues that require specialized attention to the Facilities Manager or Shelter Director and help arrange for contracted repairs as needed.

• Work with other shelter staff to ensure that maintenance needs are met in a timely manner, especially in common areas and rooms used by youth.
• Communicate effectively with the team regarding ongoing issues or projects, providing updates on the status of repairs or maintenance.
• Respond to emergency maintenance requests from shelter staff or residents in a quick and professional manner.

• Maintain an inventory of basic maintenance supplies, tools, and equipment.
• Order or request necessary supplies in a timely manner, ensuring the shelter has the materials needed to perform repairs and upkeep.
• Keep track of work orders and ensure completion of tasks within an appropriate timeframe.

• Ensure that all maintenance work complies with local building codes, safety regulations, and shelter policies.
• Promote a safe working environment by adhering to safety protocols and ensuring maintenance staff or contractors do the same.
• Assist in maintaining the shelter’s overall compliance with health and safety regulations as they pertain to the physical space.

• Collaborate with shelter staff to ensure the needs of the youth are prioritized, maintaining a balance between safety, comfort, and operational efficiency.
• Assist in preparing the facility for special events or group activities, including setting up and breaking down spaces as needed.

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Proven experience in general maintenance or facility management (1-2 years preferred).
• Previous experience working in a shelter, nonprofit, or community-based organization is a plus.

• Strong knowledge of basic plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems and repairs.
• Good problem-solving skills with the ability to handle emergency repairs quickly and effectively.
• Familiarity with safety standards and building codes.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and as part of a team.
• Strong communication skills and ability to work with a diverse group of individuals.
• Knowledge of basic computer skills (e.g., work order software or scheduling systems) is a plus.
• Ability to maintain a calm, respectful demeanor while working in a fast-paced, sometimes challenging environment.

• Ability to lift and carry heavy items (up to 50 lbs) as needed.
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, and reach for extended periods.
• Comfort with using tools, ladders, and other equipment required for maintenance tasks.

• Full-time position with a flexible schedule, which may include evenings, weekends, or on-call shifts as required.
• Work is performed both indoors and outdoors in a variety of weather conditions.
• May be exposed to cleaning chemicals and hazardous materials during maintenance tasks.

Covenant House Texas (CHT) opened its doors in 1983 to provide shelter for homeless, abused and abandoned youth ages 18 – 24. After more than 35 years of service, CHT offers an extensive continuum of care model for homeless youth including mental health and substance abuse counseling, educational and vocational training, transitional and permanent living programs, street outreach and prevention, pastoral ministry and parenting classes in addition to providing the basic necessities of food, clothing, medical care and safe shelter from the streets for youth in crisis.