Housing Maintenance

Maintenance Technician (Georgetown Estates, Project-Based Position)

Location: Battle Creek, MI Reports To: BCHC Maintenance Supervisor

Position Type: Project-Based / Transitional Operations Role (Contingent on Ownership)

This position is tied to the Battle Creek Housing Commission's (BCHC) ownership and operational management of Georgetown Estates and is expected to continue for the duration of BCHC's ownership of the property.

Position Summary

The Maintenance Technician's primary responsibility is providing general maintenance, repair services, and property upkeep at Georgetown Estates, a 132-unit mixed-income apartment community.

This role is critical to the stabilization and repositioning of the property in preparation for future redevelopment or disposition.

Essential Functions

• Complete routine maintenance and repair work orders in a timely manner
• Perform basic repairs including plumbing, electrical, HVAC, carpentry, and appliances
• Ensure vacant units are turned efficiently and ready for occupancy
• Maintain buildings, common areas, and grounds in good condition
• Respond to maintenance service requests professionally and promptly
• Communicate effectively with residents regarding repair timelines and access
• Support a positive and respectful resident experience
• Participate in on-call rotation for after-hours maintenance needs
• Respond to emergency calls (e.g., water leaks, electrical issues, safety concerns)
• Take appropriate immediate action to mitigate property damage or safety risks
• Perform routine inspections of property systems and units
• Assist in implementing preventive maintenance schedules
• Identify and report larger repair needs or capital issues
• Assist with the maintenance of the property's swimming pool, including:
  1. Assisting with seasonal opening and closing
  2. Monitoring cleanliness and safety conditions
  3. Maintaining appropriate chemical levels (training provided if needed)
• Assist in coordinating access for vendors and contractors
• Monitor work completion and report issues to the Property Manager
• Maintain a clean, safe work environment
• Track completed work orders and maintenance activities
• Provide updates to the Property Manager on maintenance needs and trends

Supervision and Oversight

The Maintenance Technician reports to the BCHC Maintenance Supervisor and supports all on-site operational and maintenance functions.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required
• 1–3 years of general maintenance or related experience preferred
• Basic knowledge of building systems (plumbing, electrical, HVAC)
• Ability to use hand tools and perform physical labor
• Valid driver's license required

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in multifamily housing maintenance
• Experience with pool maintenance or willingness to be trained
• Experience responding to emergency maintenance situations
• EPA certification or trade-specific certifications (a plus, not required)

Skills and Competencies

• Strong problem-solving skills
• Ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks
• Dependable and responsive, especially for emergency calls
• Good communication and customer service skills
• Attention to detail and follow-through

Working Conditions

• Regular physical activity including lifting, walking, climbing stairs, and working outdoors
• Exposure to weather conditions
• On-call responsibilities for emergency maintenance
• Occasional evening or weekend work required

Compensation and Benefits

• Hourly Rate: $21.00 – $24.00 per hour (Placement based on experience and skills)
• Project-Based Incentives:
• Up to $4,000 in performance bonuses payable within the first year
• Additional compensation for on-call duties, such as:
• On-call stipend (e.g., weekly flat rate), and/or
• Minimum call-out pay for emergency responses
• Benefits: Employees are eligible for BCHC benefits, including:
• Retirement plan with 6% employer contribution
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Life and disability insurance
• Paid time off and holidays
• Optional supplemental benefits

Employment Terms & Protections

To address the transitional nature of this role, BCHC provides the following:

Employment Status

• This is a project-based position tied to property ownership
• Employment is at-will, in accordance with Michigan law

Notice of Separation

• BCHC will provide at least 60 days' written notice, or
• Equivalent pay in lieu of notice, except in cases of termination for cause

Severance (Sale-Related)

If the property is sold and the employee is not retained by the new owner:

• Severance of four (4) weeks of base pay will be provided, provided the employee is in good standing at the time of separation
• Severance is payable only if employment is involuntarily terminated as a direct result of the property's sale or transfer and the employee is not offered a comparable position with the successor owner or management entity
• A comparable position is defined as one with substantially similar duties, compensation, and work location
• Employees who decline an offer of a comparable position will not be eligible for severance.

Transition Support

• BCHC will:
  • Provide professional references
  • Facilitate introductions with prospective buyers (when appropriate)
  • Encourage consideration of existing staff during disposition discussions

Internal Opportunities

• Maintenance staff may be eligible to apply for other BCHC maintenance positions
• Experience in this role will be considered relevant for internal advancement