Facilities Maintenance Technician

Summary

Be a part of the team that keeps the iconic Science Center building and Steamship William G. Mather in guest‑ready condition! The Facilities Maintenance Technician ensures that Great Lakes Science Center, including the Steamship William G. Mather, is safe, functional, and well‑maintained for all guests, staff, and partners. This role performs general maintenance, basic repairs, provides operational and event support and supports the overall safety and security of the facility.

• Maintenance & Repair:
  • Perform basic building maintenance tasks such as painting, light carpentry, drywall patching, and simple plumbing fixes.
  • Assist with basic electrical tasks such as replacing outlets and switches while following safety procedures.
  • Help maintain building systems by completing tasks like changing HVAC filters and cleaning equipment.
  • Follow maintenance checklists and report any issues that need additional repair.
• Operational & Event Support:
  • Set up and take down tables, chairs, tents, and other equipment for events and meetings, both indoors and outdoors.
  • Assist with opening and closing the Science Center and the Steamship William G. Mather.
  • Help with receiving and storing deliveries.
  • Keep work areas such as the loading dock, storage areas, and mechanical rooms clean and organized.
• Safety & Security:
  • Assist with emergency situations and building evacuations when needed.
  • Monitor basic safety systems such as the building fire panel.
  • Complete incident or security reports when required.
  • Properly use and care for assigned equipment such as radios, phones, and keys.
  • Always prioritize the safety of guests, staff, and the facility.

None

This role involves working both indoors and outdoors in different weather conditions. The position may require climbing stairs or ladders, standing for long periods, bending, reaching, and lifting items up to 50 pounds. Staff may also push or move heavier equipment when setting up events. Team members must be friendly, professional, and comfortable interacting with guests, vendors, and staff. The Steamship William G.

Mather is a historic vessel and does not have air conditioning, so temperatures may be warm during spring and summer. This position may require early mornings, evenings, weekends, holidays, or schedule changes depending on building operations and events.

Education and Work Experience

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent required; vocational or technical training in a related field is preferred.
• At least one year of experience in general maintenance, facilities support, or a related field (industrial, commercial, or residential) preferred.

• Ability to use a computer to check email, review event schedules, itineraries, and floor plans, and enter information into the maintenance and work order system.
• Ability to complete basic documents and electronic incident reports using programs such as Microsoft Word.
• Basic knowledge or experience in general maintenance tasks such as carpentry, plumbing, and using common hand and power tools. Experience with welding is a plus.
• Flexibility to work weekends, early mornings, and evenings as needed based on building hours, events, and busy visitor periods at the Great Lakes Science Center.
• Willingness to obtain certification to operate a 3,000 lb. tow motor (forklift) and vertical lift equipment and safely operate this equipment as part of the role.

This is a full‑time position (40 hours / 5 days per week). The Science Center is open daily for staff, Monday through Sunday. Typical work hours for Facilities & Security staff members fall between 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. This role may work early mornings, late evenings, weekends, and overnights based on operational needs. Efforts are made to maintain a consistent schedule and advanced notice of any changes.

The Facilities & Security department is team orientated. The Facilities Maintenance Technician should be self‑motivated, able to work independently, and able to multitask.

Director of Facilities…