Step-Up Apartment Prep

The Worcester Housing Authority (WHA) Step Up Program is a two-year apprenticeship program available exclusively to residents of Worcester Housing Authority properties . The program provides participants with meaningful, paid, full-time work experience while developing practical job skills, workplace readiness, and hands-on experience that can support future employment with WHA or other employers.

The Apartment Preparation Apprentice typically works 40 hours per week and receives hands-on training while assisting with the preparation, cleaning, and turnover of vacant apartments throughout WHA properties. Apprentices work alongside experienced WHA employees and receive instruction in apartment preparation and other related skills.

Participation in the Step Up Program is limited to a maximum of two years . Successful completion of the program does not guarantee permanent employment with WHA; however, the program is designed to provide participants with transferable skills and meaningful work experience that can improve their qualifications for future employment.

COMPENSATION AND PROGRAM ELIGIBILITY

• Applicants must be a current resident of a Worcester Housing Authority property . Only WHA residents are eligible to apply.
• This is a full-time apprenticeship position, typically scheduled for 40 hours per week with occasional overtime.
• Apprentices are paid weekly through direct deposit.
• Applicable rent calculations are incorporated into the payroll process, with the appropriate rent amount automatically deducted from the participant's payment.
• Participation in the Step Up Program is limited to a maximum of two years.

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Assist with the cleaning and preparation of vacant apartments for new residents.
• Perform general cleaning of floors, walls, windows, kitchens, bathrooms, appliances, fixtures, and other apartment areas.
• Assist with minor painting, patching, and other basic apartment preparation activities.
• Learn to safely use and maintain hand tools, cleaning equipment, and other equipment associated with apartment preparation.
• Assist WHA maintenance personnel with basic maintenance and apartment turnover activities as assigned.
• Clean and maintain common areas, offices, hallways, and other WHA spaces when needed.
• Follow established safety procedures and properly use required personal protective equipment.
• Maintain tools, equipment, supplies, vehicles, and work areas in a clean and orderly condition.
• Follow instructions and complete assigned work in accordance with WHA quality and productivity expectations.
• Participate in training, coaching, and other development activities provided through the Step Up Program.
• Demonstrate regular and reliable attendance and report to assigned work locations on time and prepared to work.
• Perform other related duties and training assignments as required.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Must be a current resident of a Worcester Housing Authority property and remain eligible for participation in the Step Up Program.
• No prior professional apartment preparation experience is required.
• Must successfully complete a pre-employment drug screening and physical examination as required by WHA.
• Must successfully complete a criminal background screening and meet WHA's requirements for employment. Criminal history will be considered in accordance with applicable law and WHA policy, including the nature and seriousness of any offense and its relevance to the position.
• Must be a resident in good standing with WHA, without serious or unresolved tenancy-related violations or conduct that would make participation in the Step Up Program inappropriate.
• Ability and willingness to learn new job skills and participate in hands-on training.
• Ability to understand and follow verbal and written instructions.
• Ability to work cooperatively as part of a team and interact respectfully with coworkers, residents, supervisors, and members of the public.
• Ability to maintain regular and reliable attendance and arrive at work as scheduled.
• Ability to safely use tools, equipment, and personal protective equipment following appropriate training.
• Ability to perform the physical requirements of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Commitment to completing assigned work safely, responsibly, and in accordance with WHA expectations.

Worcester Housing Authority is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We provide equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, religious creed, national origin, ancestry, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, military or veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs.