Maintenance Technician (Seniors' Services)

The Role

Operates, monitors, and performs preventive and demand maintenance on mechanical operating equipment, building environmental systems, building envelope, and grounds at Sunnyside Home to provide a safe, secure, and comfortable environment for residents, visitors, and staff.

Duties/Responsibilities

• Carries out complete maintenance duties on all building and operating equipment, including heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems (HVAC), air handling exhaust systems, direct-fired gas makeup air equipment, gas-fired hot water boilers and ancillary power plant equipment, emergency generators, unit heaters, circ-pumps, zone pumps, automatic overhead doors, steam humidification system, controls, sump and sewage pumps, water treatment systems, commercial computerized laundry and kitchen equipment, patient lifters, nurse call systems, spa tubs, mixing valves, resident assist and safety devices, furniture, fire extinguishing systems, annunciation equipment, grounds maintenance equipment, and vehicle wheelchair transport equipment.
• Monitors and operates a building automation system (BAS), door security system, and other associated computerized systems; makes necessary adjustments to meet occupant needs.
• Performs daily wet bulb global temperature measurements in the summer months; informs management or designate when alert stages arise and documents in log record.
• Performs corrective and demand maintenance and mechanical repairs on all building environmental operating equipment, as delegated. Replaces bearings, pumps, motors, fans, pulleys, and shafts and performs plumbing and electrical repairs not requiring a trade license.
• Troubleshoots problem areas in the building complex to identify the cause of failure and determine course of action; implements appropriate solution. Applies expertise related to buildings, systems/equipment, and regulatory requirements in a long-term care environment.
• Performs bed entrapment inspections, set ups, and troubleshoots telephone and television problems.
• Takes a lead role in major overhauls and special projects such as HVAC upgrades, boiler replacements, and renovations, as directed (e.g., prepares scope of work, obtains quotes). Directs other maintenance staff and contractors assisting with work.  
• Maintains building and work files and logs service work for all equipment, and tracks general maintenance activities. Ensures work and records meet regulatory requirements.
• Reports vandalism to Police and management. Makes repairs as required.
• Attends in-service programs; participates in monthly fire drills and quality assurance programs. Participates in activities in response to fire alarms (e.g., evacuates people from stalled elevators, evacuates residents from building, uses a fire extinguisher). 
• Participates to evaluate products, equipment, and methods used in building maintenance and operations. 
• Participates in the implementation of energy management programs. 
• Removes snow from walkways using shovels or power equipment; salts and sands, as required.
• Occasionally assists other staff to locate residents or manage difficult resident behaviours (code white). 
• Occasionally helps to set up for special events.
• Contacts contractors to arrange for services, using pre-determined list and per procedures. 
• Responds to resident requests for service and assists as required. 
• Has regular contact with residents to respond to their concerns and requests, as well as the public and families visiting the home. 

Additional Duties/Responsibilities

• Has contact with Fire; utility companies such as water, sewer, gas, hydro and telephone providing service; and Ministry and industry staff performing inspections.
• Participates in determining needs during the budget process; recommends purchases related to the operation and maintenance of the building. 
• Purchases parts, materials, supplies, and equipment required to perform work, within limit and/or for supervisor approval. Has a purchasing card. 
• Ensures tools, equipment, and parts inventory used for own work (valued at approximately $50,000) are properly secured and maintained in good working condition. Reports need to repair/replace Region-owned tools or equipment to supervisor.
• Works as part of a multi-disciplinary team to create a caring, person-centred, homelike environment where residents feel listened to and cared about. 
• Backs up other maintenance jobs at Sunnyside Home, within certification. 
• Performs related duties, as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge and experience operating and maintaining building environmental and automation systems, including HVAC, control, pneumatic and variable air volume (VAV) controls, electrical, plumbing, boiler, and water treatment systems. 
• Must possess a Gas Technician II Certificate.
• Must have a tuberculosis (TB) test and required immunization(s).
• Knowledge of and ability to comply with policies and procedures; industry standards; fire and building codes; municipal by-laws; local utilities standards; Ontario Gas Utilization Code; American Society of Heating, Refrigeration, and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) standards; TSSA standards; and related legislation (e.g., health and safety, Long-Term Care Homes Act).
• Communication skills to exchange information with maintenance team, management, contractors, residents, and building occupants; provide assistance to care staff for residents exhibiting responsive behaviors; interact pleasantly and professionally with residents, families, other staff, and visitors; and participate as an effective team member.
• Basic understanding of the geriatric population and their needs. 
• Ability to demonstrate compassion, validate emotions, support dignity, and promote understanding of those who are cognitively impaired. 
• Ability to read blueprints, work orders, technical submissions, and schematics. Ability to log equipment readings and general building maintenance activity, compile information to obtain price quotes, and write memos, emails, and reports.
• Ability to work independently and in a team environment. 
• Analytical and problem solving skills to assess a wide range of problems and determine appropriate solutions.
• Ability to plan, organize, and perform work, including determining time estimates, resource requirements, and coordinating components to complete jobs. 
• Computer skills with ability to use software such as Microsoft Office, a work order system, building automation systems, and security, resident safety, and nurse call systems.
• Participates in a regular 24-hour standby/on-call rotation to respond to emergencies, call-outs, equipment failures, and breakdowns. Works staggered hours, statutory holidays, weekends, and overtime, as required/requested. 
• Must provide an acceptable vulnerable sector police check.
• Must hold a valid class G driver's license (or G2 with 3 years of driving experience) and acceptable driving record to operate corporate vehicles.
• Ability to travel within Waterloo Region.
• Ability to support and demonstrate the Region’s values.

Additional Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities