Entry-Level General Maintenance Worker

  • Full-Time, Non-Exempt (Hourly)
  • Compensation: $18.00 - $20.00/hour
  • Reports To: Maintenance Supervisor

Job Description

The Dauphin Island Sea Lab, a leading marine research and education center, is looking for a skilled and reliable General Maintenance Worker to join our team. If you have a keen eye for detail and enjoy keeping facilities in top shape, we encourage you to apply.

As a General Maintenance Worker, you will play a crucial role in ensuring our campus facilities on Dauphin Island are tidy, functional, and safe. You will perform a variety of upkeep tasks ranging from basic repairs and preventive maintenance to cleaning and groundskeeping.

Key Responsibilities

Facility Maintenance & Repairs: Perform general cleaning (dusting, mopping), repair broken locks, fill wall gaps, replace light bulbs, and work with materials like wood, plastic, fiberglass, and drywall.

Equipment & Systems: Inspect, troubleshoot, and perform minor fixes on systems (e.g., ventilation, electrical wiring), install appliances/equipment, and verify the functionality of safety systems like fire alarms.

Groundskeeping & Operations: Maintain campus grounds (mowing, trash collection), operate machinery such as forklifts and scissor lifts, and assist with loading/unloading materials.

Transport & Logistics: Transport tools, equipment, and personnel using DISL vans and trucks.

Collaboration & Service: Interact professionally with staff, students, and clients; keep supervisors updated on project status and material needs; collaborate with trade professionals during renovations; and assist in other trade areas on a temporary basis as needed.

Safety & Compliance: Maintain tools in safe operating condition and adhere to all occupational health and safety regulations and DISL policies.

Qualifications & Requirements

Age Requirement: Must be at least 21 years of age.

Experience: 1–3 years of general maintenance experience in a residential or commercial setting with basic maintenance knowledge.

Education & Credentials:

  • High School Diploma or GED preferred.
  • Valid Driver’s License required.

Skills:

  • Solid technical knowledge and experience using hand and power tools.
  • General understanding of electrical, plumbing, and carpentry concepts.
  • Ability to read technical manuals and drawings.
  • Basic computer skills for record-keeping and communication.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

Knowledge:

  • Familiarity with federal, state, and local building codes and safety regulations.

Attributes:

  • Highly reliable with strong personal integrity and trustworthiness.
  • Great organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to work independently or within a team.
  • Capacity to manage stressful situations and shifting priorities effectively.
  • Physical Requirements:
  • Excellent manual dexterity and physical stamina.
  • Ability to lift a minimum of 50 lbs.
  • Comfortable standing, lifting overhead, squatting, and crawling in confined spaces.
  • Ability to work outdoors in various environmental conditions (heat, humidity, rain, cold, dust, noise).

Physical Requirements:

  • Excellent manual dexterity and physical stamina.
  • Ability to lift a minimum of 50 lbs.
  • Comfortable standing, lifting overhead, squatting, and crawling in confined spaces.
  • Ability to work outdoors in various environmental conditions (heat, humidity, rain, cold, dust, noise).

Compensation & Benefits

This hourly position offers a competitive starting rate of $18.00 – $20.00 per hour, along with a robust benefits package including:

  • Paid Vacation and Sick Leave
  • Paid Holidays
  • State Retirement Plan
  • Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit their resume through at HRjobs@disl.edu.