MAINTENANCE TECHNICIAN at Dayton Art Institute – Dayton, Ohio
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About This Position
JOB SUMMARY
The Maintenance Technician supports the daily operation, maintenance, and performance of the Dayton Art Institute’s facility systems, with a primary focus on HVAC, mechanical systems, and environmental control. This role helps maintain stable temperature and humidity conditions critical to artwork preservation while supporting the broader maintenance needs of a historic, public-facing facility. The ideal candidate brings strong commercial HVAC experience, working knowledge of boiler systems, and the ability to operate independently in a complex building environment.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
HVAC & Mechanical Systems
- Performs diagnostics, troubleshooting, repair, and preventive maintenance on commercial HVAC systems, including AHUs, RTUs, and hydronic systems
- Maintains and monitors boiler systems, including pumps, valves, and associated components; supports inspections, water treatment, and seasonal startup/shutdown
- Supports museum-quality climate control standards, maintaining appropriate temperature, humidity, and air quality for artwork preservation
- Utilizes or interfaces with Building Automation Systems (BAS) to monitor and adjust system performance
- Maintains building systems within a historic structure using preservation-conscious practices
Preventive Maintenance & Facility Care
- Conducts scheduled preventive maintenance to maximize efficiency and extend system life
- Identifies issues proactively and communicates recommendations to the Facilities Manager
- Documents maintenance activities and updates logs or CMMS systems
General Maintenance
- Performs general maintenance tasks including basic electrical troubleshooting (lighting, outlets, low-voltage controls), plumbing, carpentry, and painting
- Assists with light landscaping and overall facility upkeep
- Supports event setup and breakdown as needed
Daily Operations & Communication
- Reviews work requests and prioritizes tasks daily
- Maintains a personal task list to ensure timely completion of responsibilities
- Coordinates with staff regarding facility needs and operational considerations
- Communicates clearly with the Facilities Manager regarding system performance and issues
Cleaning & Safety
- Maintains clean, safe work areas and follows all safety procedures
- Assists with cleaning tasks as needed to support museum operations
QUALIFICATIONS and EXPERIENCE
- 5–10+ years of experience in commercial or institutional facilities maintenance (museum, hospital, university, or similar environment preferred)
- Strong experience with HVAC systems, including AHUs, RTUs, and hydronic systems
- Experience working with boilers (low-pressure steam or hot water systems preferred)
- Familiarity with Building Automation Systems (BAS)
- EPA Certification (Universal or Type II) preferred
- Boiler Operator License preferred but not required
- Experience working in older or historic buildings strongly preferred
- Strong organizational, problem-solving, and time-management skills
- Effective communication skills
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team, ensuring all areas are maintained to a high standard.
- Ability to work a flexible schedule. Many events are on weekends and evenings. Work schedule may vary to accommodate special events schedule.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS/WORK ENVIRONMENT
This role involves regular movement throughout museum offices, galleries, mechanical rooms, rooftops, storage areas, and public‑facing spaces within a historic building. The position may require standing, walking, bending, climbing ladders, and accessing tight or elevated areas for extended periods. Effective in‑person and electronic communication is required. The role may involve lifting, moving, or carrying materials and equipment up to approximately 50 lbs. Work schedules may include occasional evenings, weekends, or special events depending on museum programming and operational needs, as well as occasional response to urgent facility issues.
The Dayton Art Institute is an Equal Opportunity Employer and provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants in accordance with applicable federal and state law. The museum complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities. The Dayton Art Institute maintains a safe, respectful, and drug-free workplace.
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Job Location
Job Location
This job is located in the Dayton, Ohio, 45405, United States region.