Maintenance Technician

JOB TITLE: Maintenance Technician

DEPARTMENT: Operations

REPORTS TO: Facilities Manager/Director of Building Operations

Work Week: Monday to Friday, 7:00am to 3:30pm

Term/Hours: Full time, benefit-eligible position. Must be willing to work holidays and cover weekends for other employees.

Start Date: January or February 2026

Interviews: Interviews are expected to start before the holidays and will carry on into January.

JOB SUMMARY:

As a Maintenance Technician at Great Lakes Aquarium, you will be responsible for ensuring the facility's mechanical and structural systems are operating safely and efficiently. In addition to preventative maintenance and repairs, you will perform painting, wall patching, and cleaning duties to keep guest-facing exhibits clean and presentable on a weekly basis. Your work will help maintain a safe, welcoming, and visually appealing environment for both guests and staff.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Perform routine maintenance and repairs on mechanical systems.
• Conduct preventative maintenance checks and document completed tasks.
• Assist with general building upkeep, including painting, wall patching, and minor construction projects.
• Carry out weekly cleaning and presentation tasks for guest-facing exhibits to ensure they remain clean and visually appealing.
• Respond promptly to maintenance requests and emergencies.
• Operate and maintain tools, equipment, and machinery safely.
• Ensure compliance with safety standards and building codes.
• Collaborate with custodial and operations staff to support facility needs.
• Maintain accurate records of repairs, inspections, and inventory.
• Complete tasks in a timely manner with minimal supervision.
• Follow a set daily and seasonal schedule of maintenance tasks.

SKILLS REQUIRED:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
• Excellent communication skills; written and verbal.
• Basic computer skills in Microsoft Excel, Word, and Access (or other database software).
• Must have and maintain a valid driver's license.
• Ability to manage time efficiently and prioritize tasks.
• Work well independently when supervisors are not present.
• Ability to lift at least 50 pounds.
• Knowledge of basic hand tools, power tools, and maintenance equipment.
• Familiarity with safety procedures and regulations.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE:

• High School Diploma or equivalent required.
• 1-2 years of maintenance or facilities experience preferred.
• Experience with HVAC, plumbing, or electrical systems is a plus.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS and/or WORK ENVIRONMENT:

The physical demands and work environment described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

This is a physically active position. While performing the duties of this job, the employee will regularly be required to set up folding tables and chairs, lift full cases of beverages and 20# bags of ice, as well as lift and/or push a cart full of additional items required for bar service. Typically, the employee will be located on the Aquarium exhibit floor, in meeting rooms, in the outdoor beer garden space, and in an office environment. The employee will be required to be alternatively stationary and active for long periods of time on the concrete Aquarium floor. Events may last from 1-12 hours. This individual will occasionally utilize step stools and 6 foot ladders. The individual is regularly required to communicate with staff and guests. The noise level in the work environment can range from quiet to moderate and can be loud at times.

COMPENSATION and BENEFITS:


Starting rate is $14.00/hr. Staff also have the opportunity to receive annual merit increases. This is a Full-time position. Benefits include: Free waterfront parking when space is available, discount on Aquarium programs and gift shop items, and free admission to the Aquarium for self and guests. Great Lakes Aquarium promotes a fun and collaborative work environment!

Great Lakes Aquarium offers a competitive benefits package, as follows:

• 401k managed through Ascensus, with a 3% company match
• Blue Cross Blue Shield health and vision insurance.
• Delta Dental PPO dental insurance.
• Life/Accidental Death & Dismemberment Insurance, Long-Term Disability Insurance, and Short-Term Disability Insurance, provided through Unum.
• New employees earn 4.0 hours of vacation per pay period, which increases after four years of employment. All employees also receive Earned Safe & Sick Time, per Duluth ordinance.

EOAA Statement:

Great Lakes Aquarium is an equal opportunity employer. Great Lakes Aquarium shall provide equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.

Great Lakes Aquarium aims to be a supportive community for all people. If you are a job seeker with a disability and require reasonable accommodation to apply for this position, please contact Director of Business Operations, Annie Thors at View email address on click.appcast.io or call View phone number on click.appcast.io.


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