Day in the life
A Day in the Life of a Building Maintenance Technician
What building maintenance technicians actually do from the start of a shift to the end: the tasks, tools, schedule and realities of the job.
Check the work order system and prioritize an emergency leak. From there, the day usually includes respond to work orders and repair requests, repair plumbing fixtures, leaks and drains, and replace lights, switches and outlets within allowed scope. Most work full-time days, with rotating on-call shifts for after-hours emergencies.
Hour by hour: a typical shift
No two days are identical, but this timeline reflects a realistic day for a building maintenance technician working full time.
- Check the work order system and prioritize an emergency leak.
- Replace a failed water heater valve and clean up water damage.
- Unclog a kitchen drain and replace a garbage disposal.
- Change HVAC filters and check thermostats in common areas.
- Patch drywall, paint and replace blinds in a vacant apartment.
- Repair a door closer and test fire extinguishers on the monthly route.
- Close work orders and check the on-call schedule.
Where building maintenance technicians work
Technicians work in apartment communities, schools, hospitals, hotels, offices and plants. The job involves climbing ladders, crawling into tight spaces and lifting, indoors and out.
Hours and schedule
Most work full-time days, with rotating on-call shifts for after-hours emergencies.
Tasks you’ll do most often
- Respond to work orders and repair requests
- Repair plumbing fixtures, leaks and drains
- Replace lights, switches and outlets within allowed scope
- Service HVAC equipment and change filters
- Patch drywall, paint and repair doors and locks
- Turn vacant units for new residents
- Perform preventive maintenance and safety checks
Tools you’ll use every day
- Hand and power tools
- Multimeters and voltage testers
- Drain snakes and plungers
- HVAC gauges
- Ladders
- Work order software
The best and hardest parts of the job
What people like
- Steady demand in every community
- Variety: no two days are alike
- Learn multiple trades on the job
- Some apartment roles include housing discounts
What’s hard
- On-call emergencies
- Dirty and physical tasks
- Broad skills needed
- Pay may be lower than specialized trades
You’ll likely thrive if…
- I like fixing many kinds of things
- I enjoy a different task every hour
- I’m comfortable with plumbing, electrical and carpentry basics
- I can handle on-call emergencies
- I’m friendly with residents and staff
- I want steady work close to home
Not sure? Take the free Building Maintenance Technician fit quiz or the Career Match Quiz.
Staying safe on the job
- Turn off and verify power before electrical work
- Use ladders correctly and keep three points of contact
- Follow lockout/tagout for equipment
- Wear gloves and eye protection with chemicals and tools