Building Maintenance Technician

Job description

Job Summary: At the Saint Louis Art Museum, you’ll be part of a team that values excellence, collaboration, and the preservation of world-class art. This is a unique opportunity to apply your technical skills in a cultural institution that serves the public and inspires creativity. The Saint Louis Art Museum is seeking a detail-oriented Building Maintenance Technician with a strong desire to continuously expand their knowledge of building systems and museum-specific preservation practices. This role is responsible for performing preventative maintenance, diagnosing and repairing building systems, and supporting the preservation and presentation of artwork through environmental control. The ideal candidate will have a strong foundation in building systems, a commitment to safety and excellence, and a collaborative spirit. Key Responsibilities: Preventative Maintenance • Perform preventative maintenance on building equipment by using hand and power tools (e.g., screwdrivers, wrenches) to ensure optimal functionality and prevent breakdowns. • Monitor machine set points by analyzing building automation system (BAS) data to maintain pressure, temperature, and humidity within safe ranges. • Conduct routine inspections on equipment (e.g., filters, belts, motors, bolts, pumps) to ensure reliable operation. • Inspect building features such as elevators, running water, and drains to maintain safety and quality standards. • Record completed inspections in logbooks to document equipment performance and track maintenance history. • Measure temperature and humidity in art galleries using a hygrometer to preserve artwork and meet exhibition standards. • Check gallery lighting by inspecting fixtures to ensure optimal presentation of artwork. • Regulate building chillers by observing BAS data trends and weather conditions to maintain appropriate temperatures for artwork preservation. • Test boiler water for oxygen, hardness, and chemical balance using test kits to support equipment longevity. • Prepare lighting and shades for museum events as needed to enhance guest experience and event ambiance. • Inspect condensers and related components in the cooling tower system to support building climate control • Inspect pumps, valves, and water quality sensors in the water tower system to ensure clean and reliable water supply for the building. • Maintain museum grounds by testing irrigation and water systems to keep the building exterior in excellent condition. Technical Repair & Troubleshooting • Diagnose equipment issues by reviewing BAS software (e.g., Niagara, Andover, Ecostruxture) to identify necessary repairs. • Replace defective light bulbs in galleries and exterior areas by operating lifts to restore proper lighting. • Investigate abnormal equipment conditions (e.g., temperature, sounds, smells) to identify and resolve malfunctions. • Replace HVAC filters to maintain clean airflow and proper system performance. • Resolve visible facility issues (e.g., leaks, old batteries, outdated units) in a timely manner to present a clean and welcoming environment for museum guests. • Use hand tools, such as wrenches and pliers, to repair or replace plumbing parts to restore water system functionality • Repair and replace parts in elevated areas of the mechanical room by climbing ladders to access equipment • Repair and replace parts in tight spaces of the mechanical room by crawling to access equipment. • Install new electrical wiring by replacing outdated bulbs and ballasts using hand tools (e.g. screwdrivers, wire cutters) to ensure electrical safety and functionality. Collaboration & Communication • Work with engineers and supervisors to repair equipment in order to build problem-solving skills and technical knowledge. • Notify the security department before unit shutdowns to ensure awareness and safety during maintenance tasks. • Adjust lighting setups for artwork by applying feedback from curators to enhance presentation quality. • Respond to radio calls from the environmental department to troubleshoot and address maintenance issues promptly. • Collaborate with contractors by explaining tasks and answering questions to ensure project goals are met efficiently. Qualifications: • High school diploma or GED required. • Minimum of 1 year of experience in building maintenance or related fields (HVAC, plumbing, electrical). • Strong understanding of workplace safety, fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, and electrical principles. • Excellent problem-solving, communication, and organizational skills. • High attention to detail and ability to work effectively in a team environment. • Intellectual curiosity and willingness to learn about museum-specific systems and artwork preservation. Work Schedule: • Shifts vary weekly: ◦ 7:00 AM to 3:30 PM, Mon-Fri, OR ◦ 8:30 AM to 5 pm, Mon-Fri • Occasional weekend hours for event support: ◦ 12:30 PM to 9 PM on Fridays ◦ 8:30 AM to 5 PM on Saturdays and Sundays Working Conditions: • Must be able to lift, climb, crawl, and work in confined or elevated spaces. • Use of hand and power tools required. • Occasional evening or weekend work may be necessary for special events or emergencies. Additional Details: Minimum of Range: $25.88 - $31.70 per hour, commensurate with experience. Overtime rates applicable. Status: Regular Full-time, 40 hours/week Training: This person will be required to participate in an 8-week training program to learn specific building equipment and environment Career Growth: Employees who successfully complete the training program and demonstrate the required knowledge, skills, and abilities will be considered for Museum sponsorship of the Stationary Engineering License. This may also lead to eligibility for internal promotion, subject to organizational needs and performance evaluations. Learn about our exceptional employee benefits and wellness program!