Maintenance Assistant

POSITION OVERVIEW

Oxbow’s Maintenance Lead splits time between supporting maintenance of mechanical farm equipment and general facility maintenance of a diverse operation. Time will be spent both directly supervised on technical projects and performing independent work such as rough/finish carpentry, diagnosing mechanical equipment and critical systems/ building maintenance. The Maintenance Assistant is also critical in preparing for and recovering from extreme weather events such as flooding or heavy snow. This is a great position for an individual looking to expand their already broad skillset in a wide variety of subjects including: electrical, carpentry, plumbing, mechanical, diesel/gas/small engine repair, irrigation, landscaping, land stewardship, etc.

 

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

Under the supervision of the Site Manager, assist with all aspects of equipment and property maintenance with a focus on preventative maintenance and best ecological practices.

Key tasks include:

Property and Facilities Maintenance, 45%

  • Maintenance of barns, out buildings and plastic growing houses
  • Build/ modify structures as needed
  • Perform light renovations of existing spaces
  • Install landscape features using machines and hand tools
  • Supervise other grounds keepers and volunteers as needed
  • Assist/ lead maintenance crew during festivals and events
  • Help in preparing for and recovering from extreme weather events

Equipment Maintenance, 45%

  • Repair and servicing farm vehicles, tractors and implements
  • Develop and implement preventative maintenance protocols
  • Small engine care/repair
  • Repair/modify and service of specialized farm equipment
  • Safely operating large vehicles to move material, equipment and soil around Oxbow
  • Build and maintain irrigation systems
  • Care for and maintenance of tools

General, 10%

  • Ensure Facilities and Maintenance team’s objectives, strategies and messages are aligned with and supportive of Oxbow’s mission and strategic plan
  • Work cross-functionally with program teams to ensure efficient and effective communication and operations
  • Represent Oxbow in a positive, professional manner, engaging with and educating visitors about Oxbow’s mission and programs
  • Perform other duties as needed and assigned by the Facilities & Grounds Manager

 

QUALIFICATIONS

  • Strong and demonstrated experience with all aspects of general carpentry, including familiarity with different mediums such as wood, metal, cement
  • Ability to get to Oxbow Farm easily and safely in times of inclement weather
  • Comfortable dealing with and supporting activities revolving around public engagement
  • Able to work with a positive attitude: standing, sitting, bending over or kneeling, to lift heavy & awkward objects, up to 60 lbs., perform physical work such as digging or constructing, in inclement weather
  • Comfortable with ladders and heights
  • Willingness and capacity to take initiative
  • Able to take direction, ask for help/clarity when necessary, and accept constructive feedback on work and technique
  • Clear, consistent communication
  • Mechanical aptitude
  • Tractor driving experience a plus, but not necessary
  • Consistent attention to detail
  • Must have valid driver’s license and clean driving record
  • Able to work independently and within a team
  • Weekend event work is required multiple times throughout the year including on call service during flood and snow events

Additional desired qualities include: environmentally conscious, detail oriented, self-motivated, energetic, and professional.

The Oxbow facilities team is part of a larger non-profit organization. A commitment to Oxbow’s overall mission and working as part of a team is critical.

 

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY COMMITMENT

Oxbow is committed to cultivating a culture of diversity and inclusion. We value the individual differences, life experiences, and knowledge that our staff members bring to their work and their communities. Valuing diversity is a significant part of our culture, our values, and the success of Oxbow’s mission.

Oxbow provides equal employment opportunities to all staff members and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type on the basis of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

Oxbow is committed to fostering a racially diverse team. People of color are encouraged to apply.

 

COMPENSATION

This is a regular, full-time position, paying $16.50-$18.50 per hour DOE.

 

REPORTS TO: Site Manager

 

TO APPLY

Please read carefully and email a resume, letter of interest, and 3 references to Tara Baron (Recruitment Specialist) at thedirt@oxbow.org.

Please write Maintenance Assistant  in the email subject line and include where you found this position in the message body.

Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until the position is filled.