Position Summary
Seabird Island is committed to providing safe, well-maintained housing for our community members. We are dedicated to creating a culturally safe and inclusive environment that respects and values First Nations knowledge, traditions, and ways of being. We are seeking a Housing Maintenance and Repair Technician to join our team, working collaboratively to ensure high standards in the maintenance and quality of community housing.
Under the direction of the Residential Maintenance Program Manager, the Housing Maintenance and Repair Technician provides maintenance and repair services to support community members and their homes. This role involves conducting repairs, performing inspections, and managing small-scale construction projects to enhance the safety and functionality of Seabird Island’s housing. The Housing Maintenance worker will also engage in community relations activities, listening to and addressing tenant concerns professionally and respectfully, and fostering a positive living environment.
What you'll do
- Receive and prioritize work orders from the Residential Maintenance Program Manager.
- Perform routine maintenance and repairs for community housing units, including carpentry, plumbing, electrical, painting, HVAC, and general handyman tasks to ensure safe and functional living spaces.
- Conduct regular inspections and follow-up on maintenance needs promptly.
- Maintain accurate records of work orders, including details of repairs performed and parts used.
- Provide on-call support for urgent repair needs, such as water leaks, heating issues, and electrical malfunctions, to ensure tenant safety and comfort.
- Conduct an assessment, troubleshoot problems, and determine the best course of action for repairs.
- Identify and document any work that needs to be contracted out, taking photos and providing detailed reports to the Residential Maintenance Program Manager.
- Ensure all maintenance work adheres to safety standards, building codes, and environmental regulations. Conduct safety inspections and make recommendations for hazard mitigation in and around housing units.
- Track and maintain inventory of tools, materials, and supplies for maintenance work. Ensure equipment is kept in good condition and restored as necessary to support timely repairs.
- Work with Housing and Community Services teams to develop and distribute educational materials for tenants on topics like energy conservation, basic maintenance, and safe home practices.
- Maintain detailed records of all repairs, inspections, and maintenance activities. Prepare reports on housing conditions, completed projects, and any major issues requiring attention from the Residential Maintenance Program Manager.
- Assist with planning and executing community housing improvement projects, upgrades, and renovations. Offer insights into areas needing improvement and potential solutions for better housing outcomes.
- Stay updated on best practices in maintenance and repair, including new techniques and technologies.
- Participate in training and development opportunities to enhance skills and knowledge.
- Share knowledge and skills with other staff members to promote continuous improvement within the team.
Other Duties
- Additional responsibilities as needed to support the community and uphold our shared values.
Working / Special Conditions
- Initial and ongoing employment is subject to submission of a clear Criminal Record Check to ensure the safety and trust of the communities we serve. This check will be conducted every five years.
- Initial and ongoing commitment to the values and guidelines of Sq'éwqel (Seabird Island Band), including our policies, procedures, standards of practice, and laws, is essential. This commitment supports our collective work, the community, and the responsibilities of this role.
- Must possess a valid class 5 driver's license and have access to safe and reliable transportation, insured for community-based use, to effectively engage and support projects, work, and initiatives.
- Flexibility in working hours may be required, including evenings and weekends, to accommodate the needs and schedules of clients and community needs. Employees will be given as much notice as possible to any changes in schedule.
What you bring
Qualifications
- Diploma or certification in Construction Management, Building Maintenance, or a related technical field. Other forms of post-secondary education and training, including teachings from Elders and Knowledge Keepers, will be considered.
- At least 2 years of relevant experience working within First Nations communities, focusing on housing maintenance and repairs.
- Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
- Familiarity with housing inspection processes and preventative maintenance planning.
Preferred:
- Indigenous candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.
- Lived experience as a member of a First Nations community.
- Knowledge and understanding of Seabird Island’s culture, traditions, teachings, community dynamics.
- Ability to respond quickly and professionally to community or colleague needs and inquiries.
- Excellent writing, editing, and verbal communication skills.
- Experience working within community housing programs, especially with Indigenous or First Nations communities.
Cultural Competency:
- In-depth knowledge of Canadian colonial impacts on Indigenous people in social and health contexts, supported by significant knowledge of Canadian and First Nations ideologies, including understanding of Indigenous cultural safety, cultural humility, Indigenous-specific racism, and anti-racism.
- Experience working within Indigenous communities and applying culturally safe practices.
- Understanding of intergenerational trauma and its impacts on Indigenous peoples and communities.
Benefits
- Extended health and dental benefits,
- Accrued vacation and sick time,
- Pension plan with matching employer contributions.
How To Apply
Have a question about this position before you apply? Email [email protected].
Interested candidates are invited to submit their resume and a cover letter outlining their qualifications and experience, particularly in relation to Traditional and Holistic Wellness. Please include references that can speak to your experience and skills.
Pre-Employment Screening
Seabird Island is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. We are committed to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion. We recognize and value the unique perspectives, experiences, and contributions that Indigenous people bring to our team. We actively encourage applications from Indigenous people. Pursuant to S. 41 of the BC Human Rights Code, preference may be given to applicants of First Nations, Métis, or Inuit heritage. We are interested in every qualified candidate who is eligible to work in Canada; however, we are not able to sponsor visas.
Employment is conditional upon completing pre-employment screening to ensure a safe and secure work environment in which students, staff, members, families, community, as well as resources, and assets are protected. All background checks, reference checks and criminal record checks are performed in accordance with Seabird Island Human Resources Policy Manual, protecting the integrity and confidentiality of information gathered during the evaluation.
We thank you for your interest. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
