General Maintenance Worker Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of modern infrastructure, the demand for general maintenance workers is consistently high.
As our surroundings continue to evolve, the need for skilled individuals who can maintain, repair, and ensure the smooth operation of our physical framework grows stronger.
But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a general maintenance worker?
Whether you are:
- A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
- A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
- Or simply fascinated by the intricacies of general maintenance work,
You’ve landed on the right page.
Today, we present a flexible general maintenance worker job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.
Let’s get straight to it.
General Maintenance Worker Duties and Responsibilities
General Maintenance Workers have a hands-on role in ensuring that facilities are clean and functional, requiring a good understanding of various maintenance tasks and the use of various tools and equipment.
Their main duties and responsibilities include:
- Performing routine inspection and maintenance activities
- Identifying and reporting the need for major repairs
- Carrying out minor repairs like fixing leaks, patching drywall, painting, and other general maintenance tasks
- Maintaining safe and clean working environment by complying with procedures, rules, and regulations
- Monitoring inventory of maintenance supplies and equipment, and initiating reordering when necessary
- Providing assistance to skilled tradespeople in their duties
- Utilizing hand and power tools
- Ensuring that buildings and spaces meet health and safety standards
- Responding quickly to emergency situations
General Maintenance Worker Job Description Template
Job Brief
We are seeking a skilled general maintenance worker to perform upkeep tasks such as repairs and cleaning.
You will be responsible for applying basic fixes to equipment and building systems and ensuring facilities are tidy and functional.
Your duties will also involve being proactive in the maintenance of equipment and facilities.
Being reliable with a keen eye for detail is the first step to getting this job.
The ideal candidate will have experience and solid technical knowledge.
You must also possess manual dexterity and physical stamina.
Responsibilities
- Conduct general upkeep procedures (e.g. landscaping)
- Perform cleaning activities such as dusting, mopping etc.
- Perform minor fixes such as repairing broken locks, filling gaps on walls etc.
- Check control panels and electrical wiring to identify issues
- Install appliances and equipment
- Do garden/yard upkeep by mowing lawn, collecting trash etc.
- Conduct maintenance tasks such as replacing light bulbs
- Inspect and troubleshoot equipment and systems
- Check functionality of safety systems (e.g. fire alarm)
Qualifications
- Proven experience as maintenance worker or other similar position
- Basic knowledge of HVAC, plumbing and electrical systems
- Experience using hand and electrical tools
- Ability to read technical manuals and drawings
- Very good communication and interpersonal skills
- Physical stamina and dexterity
- High school diploma or equivalent
Benefits
- 401(k)
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Retirement plan
- Paid time off
- Professional development opportunities
Additional Information
- Job Title: General Maintenance Worker
- Work Environment: This role requires both indoor and outdoor work. Physical demands include lifting, climbing, and the ability to endure weather conditions.
- Reporting Structure: Reports to the Facility Manager or Maintenance Supervisor.
- Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
- Pay Range: $35,000 minimum to $50,000 maximum
- Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
- Employment Type: Full-time
- Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
- Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].
What Does a General Maintenance Worker Do?
A General Maintenance Worker is typically employed by a variety of industries, including construction, property management, and government agencies.
They can also work as independent contractors or for maintenance service companies.
Their main responsibility is to ensure that facilities are clean and in good operating condition.
Their tasks include performing routine maintenance, fixing any safety hazards, and repairing machines, equipment, or structures as necessary.
They diagnose mechanical issues and correct them, often using a variety of hand and power tools.
They may also have to order supplies, keep inventory, and update records when needed.
General Maintenance Workers often have skills in a variety of areas such as plumbing, carpentry, electrical systems, and HVAC.
They are also responsible for conducting regular inspections to identify and fix potential problems before they escalate.
Depending on the organization, they may also be tasked with setting up or moving heavy equipment and machinery, painting, or landscaping work.
In all their tasks, General Maintenance Workers need to adhere to safety standards and ensure that all services and repairs are done according to code.
General Maintenance Worker Qualifications and Skills
General Maintenance Workers require a set of technical, practical and interpersonal skills and qualifications to effectively manage and maintain facilities, such as:
- Practical experience and knowledge of various repair and maintenance tasks, including plumbing, electrical systems, HVAC and carpentry
- Physical strength and stamina to perform demanding tasks and stand for extended periods of time
- Technical abilities to utilize a variety of tools and equipment safely and effectively
- Problem-solving skills to diagnose and fix issues with building systems and equipment
- Attention to detail to ensure all tasks are completed thoroughly and accurately
- Interpersonal and communication skills to interact with facility occupants, understand their needs and report to supervisors
- Time management skills to prioritize tasks effectively and complete them within set timeframes
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team to meet the overall maintenance goals
- A general understanding of health and safety regulations to ensure all tasks are performed in a safe manner
General Maintenance Worker Experience Requirements
General Maintenance Workers usually require a high school diploma or equivalent.
Many employers also require 1 to 2 years of general maintenance experience, which can be gained through vocational programs, apprenticeships, or on-the-job training in positions such as a maintenance assistant or handyman.
Some of the hands-on skills acquired may include basic plumbing, electrical work, painting, HVAC systems maintenance, and general repairs.
Additionally, experience with tools, equipment, and safety procedures are often necessary for these roles.
Candidates with more than 3 years of general maintenance experience often have developed their abilities to troubleshoot and solve complex maintenance issues, supervise small projects, and work with minimal supervision.
Those with more than 5 years of experience may have had supervisory roles in their background, showcasing their skills in managing teams, coordinating maintenance tasks, and implementing safety regulations.
At this level, they may be ready for a managerial position or a senior role in facility management.
General Maintenance Worker Education and Training Requirements
General Maintenance Workers typically require a high school diploma or equivalent education.
They usually learn the skills of the trade on the job, often through an apprenticeship or a vocational school.
These programs provide training in a variety of maintenance tasks, including plumbing, electrical repairs, and HVAC systems.
While not mandatory, some employers may prefer candidates with a certificate or associate’s degree in a field related to maintenance technology, like industrial maintenance or facilities management.
In some jobs, General Maintenance Workers may need to be licensed to perform certain duties such as electrical or HVAC work.
Licensing requirements vary by state and may require passing an exam.
Continuing education and training throughout their careers can help maintenance workers stay current with new technologies and practices.
Some may also choose to pursue additional certifications to demonstrate proficiency in a specific skill, such as plumbing or electrical work.
Practical skills and experience are highly valued in this field, so hands-on training, internships, or part-time jobs can significantly improve job prospects.
General Maintenance Worker Salary Expectations
A General Maintenance Worker can expect to earn an average salary of $29,050 (USD) per year.
The actual salary can differ greatly based on factors such as skills, experience, and location.
Certain industries or companies may also offer higher compensation.
General Maintenance Worker Job Description FAQs
What skills does a General Maintenance Worker need?
A General Maintenance Worker should possess a variety of skills in multiple trades including plumbing, electrical, carpentry, painting, and HVAC.
They should also have a good problem-solving ability to troubleshoot issues that arise during their work.
Basic understanding of tools and equipment used in maintenance work is also crucial.
Do General Maintenance Workers need specific qualifications?
While a degree is not required for a General Maintenance Worker, having a high school diploma or equivalent is often preferred.
Specific vocational training or certification in a trade such as plumbing, carpentry, or HVAC can be a major advantage.
Some employers might also require a valid driver’s license for transportation to different work sites.
What should you look for in a General Maintenance Worker resume?
Look for a diverse set of skills that will allow the candidate to handle a wide variety of maintenance tasks.
Experience in different trades such as plumbing, electrical work, HVAC, and carpentry is very useful.
Also check for any relevant certifications or vocational training that might indicate a higher skill level in certain areas.
A history of stable employment in maintenance roles is also a good sign.
What qualities make a good General Maintenance Worker?
A good General Maintenance Worker is versatile and adaptable, able to tackle a wide range of maintenance tasks.
They should be detail-oriented, ensuring that jobs are completed thoroughly and to a high standard.
Good problem-solving skills are also important for diagnosing and fixing issues.
Finally, they should have good time management skills, as they often need to prioritize tasks based on urgency.
How physically demanding is a General Maintenance Worker’s job?
The job of a General Maintenance Worker can be physically demanding as it often involves lifting heavy objects, standing or kneeling for extended periods, climbing ladders, and potentially working in uncomfortable or cramped conditions.
Therefore, physical fitness and stamina are important qualities for this role.
Conclusion
And there you have it.
Today, we’ve stripped away the layers of what it means to be a General Maintenance Worker.
Surprise!
It’s not just about fixing things.
It’s about creating a safe, functioning environment, one repair at a time.
With our readily available general maintenance worker job description template and real-world examples, you’re prepared to take that leap.
But why end there?
Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your gateway to meticulously crafted job listings or refining your resume to excellence.
Remember:
Every repair, every maintenance task is a part of a greater whole.
Let’s create that future. Together.
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