Maintenance Technician

Job Description

New Dawn Properties has a diverse portfolio of buildings and land. We operate 4 commercial buildings and 100+ market and supportive housing residential units across the CBRM. Our portfolio of buildings also varies in age; some buildings are newly built or renovated, while others were built 50+ years ago, and we’re always growing. We also house individuals with varying levels of independence and need, which translates into some buildings requiring more regular maintenance than others.

The Maintenance Technician is responsible for the day-to-day upkeep of buildings, grounds, and equipment while serving as a point of contact for residents, tenants, and staff. This role blends hands -on maintenance with administrative coordination, ensuring that facilities are safe, well-maintained, and responsive to the needs of the people who use them.

Working both independently and as part of a collaborative team, the Maintenance Technician carries out preventative maintenance, diagnoses issues for specialty trades (plumbing, electrical, etc), minor repairs, and general property care, while also supporting inventory tracking and reporting. They bring empathy, professionalism, and strong communication skills to every interaction, and contribute to a positive, tenant -centred environment consistent with New Dawn’s values and mission.

Primary Areas of Responsibility

Facilities Maintenance; Administrative Coordination; Resident & Tenant Relation

Duties & Responsibilities

Maintenance & Facilities

• Perform preventative maintenance and inspections on fixtures, equipment, and systems
• Carry out repairs to buildings, fixtures, and equipment on a regular and as-needed basis, including emergency repairs during on-call hours
• Seasonally maintain outdoor grounds across multiple New Dawn properties, including snow removal and salting; operate grounds maintenance equipment (snow blower, tractor)
• Assist with painting interior and exterior surfaces as required
• Perform minor repairs on windows, doors, appliances, sinks, toilets (running/leaking), faucets, drains, blinds, and similar fixtures; perform basic plumbing troubleshooting and repairs
• Move furniture and bulky items as required
• Performing lock changes and coordinating with locksmiths as required
• Assist with unit preparation between tenancies, including cleaning, minor repairs, and inspections to ensure rent-ready condition
• Inspect, test, and replace smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers on required schedules

Administrative Coordination

• Maintain a preventative and responsive maintenance schedule
• Maintain and control an inventory of supplies, tools, equipment, and machinery
• Use MaintainX (work order management software) to log, update, and close work orders, and maintain accurate maintenance records for management
• Assist with scheduling and meeting service vendors and inspections as directed
• Participate in internal team meetings
• Coordinate and dispatch external contractors (electrical, plumbing, HVAC, pest control, etc.); obtain quotes, schedule access, oversee on-site work, and follow up to ensure completion and invoicing
• Recommend replacement or acquisition of equipment, tools, and materials based on maintenance needs and lifecycle assessments

Resident and Tenant Relations

• Serve as a professional and approachable point of contact for residents and tenants regarding maintenance concerns
• Listen respectfully to concerns, document issues clearly, and escalate requests appropriately
• Maintain the confidentiality, privacy, and dignity of residents and tenants at all times
• Demonstrate empathy and professionalism in all interactions with residents and tenants
• Act tactfully and diplomatically in sensitive situations
• Respond to the needs of others with effective communication, mutual respect, and consistent follow through Safety and Compliance
• Follow all standards defined in the Residential Tenancies Act and the CBRM Minimum Standards By-law for Existing Residential Dwellings as it relates to our responsibilities to residential tenants
• Report all safety incidents to the Facilities Manager immediately
• Actively participate in New Dawn’s safety programs and safety discussions, and follow all applicable health and safety procedures; use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) as required
• Adhere to and support Residential Tenancies Act notice of entry requirements, understand provisions for emergency entry without notice to protect life or property
• Identify, document, and escalate potential risks of violations of the CBRM Minimum Standards By-law for Existing Residential Dwellings; support remedial actions within required timelines

Other Duties and Responsibilities

• Participate in team meetings and organizational activities as required
• Identify opportunities for continuous improvement and contribute to the development and implementation of effective solutions
• Maintain high standards of quality, safety, and confidentiality in all interactions involving employees, clients, volunteers, and organizational information
• Demonstrate professionalism, tact, diplomacy, and sensitivity in all interactions, representing New Dawn in a manner consistent with its mission, vision, and values
• Maintain and enhance professional knowledge and skills through ongoing learning, professional development, networking, and participation in relevant professional associations
• Foster positive workplace relationships through effective communication, mutual respect, collaboration, and reliable follow-through
• Champion and promote New Dawn’s mission, vision, and values both internally and externally
• Perform other related duties as assigned

Core Competencies

• Servant leadership
• Ethics and integrity
• Client and community-focused
• Initiative and problem solving
• Accountability and dependability
• Strong oral and written communication
• Teamwork and collaboration
• Detail orientation
• Adaptability
• Administrative and organizational skills
• Interpersonal awareness and relationship-building

Qualifications

• Grade 12 diploma or equivalent
• Minimum 2 years of experience in building or property maintenance, or an equivalent combination of education and hands-on trade experience
• Demonstrated basic plumbing knowledge and repair ability
• Demonstrated basic carpentry knowledge and repair ability
• Valid and up-to-date First Aid and CPR certification
• Valid Nova Scotia Class 5 driver’s licence and access to a reliable vehicle
• Clear criminal records check
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel) and comfort with digital tools and work order management software
• Working knowledge of the Nova Scotia Occupational Health and Safety Act and related workplace safety obligations
• Familiarity with the Nova Scotia Residential Tenancies Act and CBRM Minimum Standards By-law as they apply to landlord responsibilities
• Demonstrated compassion, empathy, diplomacy, and sound problem-solving skills
• Experience working with and advocating for individuals and communities facing vulnerability and systemic barriers
• Ability to work independently, collaboratively as part of a team, and under direction when required
• Strong attention to detail, with exceptional verbal and written communication skills
• Proven ability to build positive relationships and work effectively with others toward shared goals
• Highly organized, with the ability to manage competing priorities and perform effectively in a fast-paced environment
• Demonstrated integrity, professionalism, accountability, and commitment to confidentiality
• Understanding of and commitment to servant leadership, community-centered practice, and New Dawn’s values

Strong Assets

• Experience in multi-unit residential, community housing, or non-profit property environments
• Partial trades apprenticeship or certification in plumbing, electrical, carpentry, or HVAC/refrigeration
• Experience with heat pump systems (troubleshooting, filter maintenance, basic diagnostics)
• Small appliance repair experience (stoves, washers, dryers, dishwashers, refrigerators)
• Interior and exterior painting, surface preparation, and finishing
• Basic electrical troubleshooting (outlets, breakers, fixture and switch replacement)
• Locksmith basics: deadbolt replacement and door hardware installation
• Awareness of fire and life safety equipment: AED operation, fire alarm panels, emergency exit devices
• Pest identification and basic integrated pest management practices
• Building envelope awareness: roofing, eavestroughs, flashing, caulking, and exterior weatherproofing
• WHMIS certification
• Familiarity with a computerized maintenance management system (CMMS)

Work Conditions

• Physical ability to safely lift and carry up to 50 lbs.
• Combination of sitting, standing, and walking; on feet most of the workday
• Work may be performed indoors and outdoors, depending on operational requirements
• Overtime may be required; working evenings/weekends as needed
• Participation in a rotational on-call schedule is required; after-hours and weekend emergency call-outs are compensated in accordance with New Dawn’s on-call policy
• Environment can be busy and/or noisy at times
• Regular travel across multiple New Dawn properties throughout the Cape Breton Regional Municipality (CBRM) is required; a valid Nova Scotia driver’s licence and access to a reliable vehicle are mandatory
• Regular interaction with employees, volunteers, management, participants, children, families, and members of the public
• Exposure to cleaning chemicals and industrial products, dust, noise, varying temperatures, and other environmental conditions associated with the work

Total Compensation Package

At New Dawn Enterprises, we recognize that employee well-being is fundamental to individual success, organizational excellence, and thriving communities. In addition to competitive wages, hourly employees may be eligible for the following benefits and supports. Eligibility for specific benefits may vary based on employment status, position, and length of service. Employees covered by a collective agreement may be subject to different terms and conditions as outlined in their applicable collective bargaining agreement.

Extended Health & Well-Being

GroupHEALTH offers integrated wellness services through Sparrow Health, including enhanced mental health support, seamless access to virtual healthcare, and an Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP). Services include critical incident support, 24/7 crisis assistance, substance-use management, and other wellness resources.

Flexible Work Arrangements

In recognition of the benefits of greater work-life balance and the value of flexibility and autonomy for human well-being, New Dawn makes every effort to offer flexible work schedules. Divisions across New Dawn are structured differently and may offer varying levels of flexibility while continuing to meet operational requirements. Depending on the role, flexible arrangements may include self-scheduling (regular schedule and/or time off coverage), flexible start and end times, remote work, and other accommodations.

Paid Vacation

Hourly employees receive vacation pay at a rate of 4% of gross earnings, increasing to 6% after eight years of service. Employees are entitled to two weeks of vacation annually, increasing to three weeks at that time. As vacation pay is paid on each pay cheque, vacation time taken is unpaid.

Paid Holidays

New Dawn observes the following six (6) public holidays recognized under the Labour Standards Code: New Year’s Day, Nova Scotia Heritage Day, Good Friday, Canada Day, Labour Day, and Christmas Day. Employees required to work on a general holiday will receive either their regular pay plus time and a half, or their regular pay plus a paid day off in lieu, in accordance with the Nova Scotia Labour Standards Code.

In addition, New Dawn observes Remembrance Day (November 11) in accordance with the Nova Scotia Remembrance Day Act. Eligible employees are entitled to a paid day off, and the workplace will be closed except where an exemption applies.

Rewards & Recognition

New Dawn celebrates employee contributions through service awards, milestone recognition, and ongoing appreciation programs that acknowledge achievements and significant personal and professional milestones.

Paid Required Education Renewals

When certifications, training, licenses, or credentials are required for a position, New Dawn covers renewal costs. Support for professional designations and licensing fees may also be provided based on role requirements and divisional budgets.

Professional Development

New Dawn is committed to supporting employees in developing their skills, expanding their knowledge, and pursuing lifelong learning opportunities. Development of new position-relevant skills and perspectives creates a stronger, more informed, and modern organization. Employees are encouraged to explore professional development opportunities in collaboration with their manager.

Café Marie Discount

Employees are entitled to a staff discount at Café Marie, located in the Eltuek Arts Centre.

Corporate YMCA Membership Program

To support employee health and wellness, New Dawn offers a corporate membership in partnership with the Cape Breton YMCA. The corporate membership provides staff with a 12% discount on the cost of individual membership, and New Dawn covers 50% of the discounted individual membership cost.