Service Year Option - Skilled Trades Assistant

Skilled Trades Assistant

The Skilled Trades Assistant is an entry-level role designed to provide hands-on exposure to hospital facilities operations, maintenance, and skilled trades. Working under close supervision, this role supports the Facilities Engineering team with basic tasks while learning core skills related to building systems, safety, and equipment maintenance.

This position is ideal for individuals exploring careers in the skilled trades (electrical, HVAC, carpentry, or general maintenance) and provides a pathway into advanced facilities roles.

Minimum Qualifications

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent required
• Maryland resident
• Individuals eligible for the Maryland Service Year Program (generally ages 1824)
• Experience: None required
• Licensure/Certification:
• Valid driver's license preferred (if operating vehicles/equipment)
• Skills & Abilities:
• Interest in hands-on work or skilled trades (electrical, HVAC, carpentry, etc.)
• Ability to follow instructions and work under supervision
• Basic mechanical aptitude or willingness to learn
• Strong work ethic and reliability
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Basic communication skills

What You'll Do

• Assist Facilities staff with basic maintenance and repair tasks
• Support preventative maintenance activities across hospital systems
• Help with groundskeeping, cleaning mechanical spaces, and organizing work areas
• Transport materials, tools, and equipment to job sites
• Observe and assist skilled trades (electricians, HVAC technicians, carpenters)
• Perform basic tasks such as changing filters, cleaning equipment, and minor repairs
• Report safety concerns or maintenance issues to supervisors
• Help maintain a safe, clean, and functional environment across the facility

What the Job is Really Like

• This is a learning-focused, hands-on role you'll spend much of your time assisting and observing experienced trades staff
• The work is physical and active , including walking, lifting, and working in different areas of the hospital
• You'll be exposed to a variety of trades (electrical, HVAC, carpentry), helping you explore career interests
• Tasks may seem basic at first (cleaning, assisting, transporting), but they are essential to operations
• You'll often work under close supervision , especially while learning safety procedures
• The environment can include mechanical rooms, outdoor spaces, and active job sites
• No two days are exactly the samepriorities shift based on facility needs

Work Environment & Demands

• Hospital and campus environment, including indoor and outdoor work
• Frequent standing, walking, bending, and lifting (see physical demands on page 2 of Maintenance Assistant role)
• Exposure to mechanical systems, tools, and equipment
• May work in varying temperatures or confined spaces
• Requires use of basic PPE and adherence to safety protocols
• Physically active role with hands-on tasks throughout the day

What Success Looks Like

• You show consistent reliability, punctuality, and willingness to learn
• Tasks are completed safely and correctly under supervision
• You demonstrate growth in basic maintenance and trade-related skills
• You follow safety procedures and report issues appropriately
• You build positive working relationships with Facilities team members
• You begin developing skills that lead to advancement into roles such as:
• Maintenance Assistant
• HVAC Technician
• Electrician
• Carpenter

Caring for Our Team We offer a comprehensive benefits package to support our employees' well-being and professional growth. Benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance available starting the 1st of the month following date of hire, along with life insurance, & short and long-term disability coverage. Paid Time Off begins accruing from day one, and we also provide a 401k plan, an education assistance program, and an employee assistance program. Additionally, employees working evening, night, or weekend shifts may be eligible for a shift differential, adding even more value to your role.

Happy to Help

At Meritus, we believe in a collaborative and caring work environment. Interactions are an opportunity to learn, listen and to be there for one another. Therefore, we provide warm welcomes, hospitality-driven closures, and are always Happy to Help.

Equal Opportunity Employer This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.