How to Be Building Maintenance Supervisor - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

The lack of a Building Maintenance Supervisor can have a disastrous effect on a building. Without someone to oversee maintenance, preventative measures can be overlooked, resulting in costly repairs and safety hazards. Additionally, tenants may face disruptions due to construction or repairs taking longer than necessary, decreasing satisfaction and potentially leading to property damage or legal issues. It is essential to have a Building Maintenance Supervisor to ensure timely repairs, adequate safety protocols, and reliable service.

Steps How to Become

  1. Earn a High School Diploma or GED. Most employers will require applicants for the position of Building Maintenance Supervisor to possess a high school diploma or GED.
  2. Gain Experience in Building Maintenance. Building Maintenance Supervisors must possess a strong background in the practices and techniques of building maintenance. Prospective supervisors should seek out experience in this area to demonstrate their qualifications.
  3. Obtain a Vocational Certificate. Some employers require applicants for this position to hold a certificate from a vocational school in Building Maintenance or a related field.
  4. Complete an Apprenticeship. Many employers prefer applicants who have completed an apprenticeship in the building maintenance field. During an apprenticeship, students gain hands-on experience while studying the principles and practices of building maintenance under the supervision of an experienced professional.
  5. Pursue an Associate Degree. An associate degree in a field such as building maintenance technology may prove beneficial to prospective Building Maintenance Supervisors, as it provides a comprehensive introduction to the field.
  6. Earn Licensing and Certification. Depending on the jurisdiction, Building Maintenance Supervisors may be required to possess certain licenses and certifications in order to perform their duties. These may include licenses to operate certain pieces of equipment, such as asbestos removal equipment, as well as certifications as a building inspector or HVAC technician.

Staying ahead and capable as a Maintenance Supervisor requires staying organized, being proactive, and staying up to date with the latest trends in the industry. Proactive maintenance can reduce the amount of time and resources needed to maintain equipment and systems. Having up-to-date knowledge of the industry can help identify potential problems and opportunities for improvement before they become major issues.

Staying organized can help ensure that tasks are completed efficiently and on time. having a regular schedule for preventive maintenance can help with staying ahead of potential issues before they become more serious. By utilizing these strategies, Maintenance Supervisors can remain ahead and capable of meeting the needs of their team.

You may want to check Building Inspector Assistant, Building Manager, and Building Project Manager for alternative.

Job Description

  1. Monitor and maintain a safe and clean work environment
  2. Inspect buildings and equipment for potential problems and necessary repairs
  3. Develop and implement preventive maintenance programs for building and equipment
  4. Oversee construction and renovation projects
  5. Manage contractor services for building upkeep
  6. Monitor and control maintenance costs
  7. Schedule and supervise building maintenance staff
  8. Respond to tenant and occupant requests in a timely manner
  9. Prepare annual budget projections
  10. Ensure compliance with local building codes and safety regulations

Skills and Competencies to Have

  1. Knowledge of building systems and components, such as HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and carpentry
  2. Ability to read blueprints and schematics
  3. Ability to troubleshoot and diagnose problems
  4. Excellent organizational and time management skills
  5. Ability to utilize appropriate tools, materials, and supplies
  6. Knowledge of safety protocols and procedures
  7. Strong written and verbal communication skills
  8. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite or similar software
  9. Technical knowledge of building codes and regulations
  10. Ability to work independently or as part of a team
  11. Ability to prioritize tasks and efficiently manage multiple projects
  12. Demonstrated customer service skills
  13. Proven experience in budgeting and financial management
  14. Ability to lift heavy objects

Being a Maintenance Supervisor requires a broad range of skills and knowledge in order to be successful. The most important skill to have is excellent problem-solving ability. Maintenance Supervisors need to be able to quickly identify and diagnose problems and develop solutions.

They also need to have good communication skills, as they need to be able to effectively communicate with their team and other stakeholders. they require the technical expertise to inspect and evaluate buildings, equipment, systems, and structures, and the ability to manage resources, such as financial budgets and timeframes. Furthermore, they need to be organized and able to prioritize tasks and delegate responsibilities.

Finally, they must have a commitment to safety, as they are responsible for ensuring that all maintenance activities are carried out safely and in accordance with relevant regulations. With these skills, Maintenance Supervisors are well-equipped to ensure that buildings and structures remain in good condition and safe for occupants.

Building Operations Specialist, Building Engineer, and Building Inspector Trainee are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

  • What experience do you have in a building maintenance supervisor role?
  • How do you prioritize tasks and ensure that work is completed on time?
  • Describe a time when you had to manage a difficult situation with a customer or tenant.
  • What strategies do you use to ensure that the building is maintained to safety standards?
  • How would you handle a situation where there is an emergency repair but no budget to cover it?
  • Describe your experience with using and maintaining different types of machinery and tools.
  • What techniques do you use to manage a large staff and ensure that everyone is on track with their tasks?
  • How do you ensure that all building repair and maintenance activities are compliant with local regulations?
  • Describe a time when you had to solve a complex problem in the building maintenance process.
  • How do you stay up to date with best practices in building maintenance and repair?

Common Tools in Industry

  1. Power Drill. A tool used to drill holes into materials such as wood, metal, and plastic. (eg: drill holes for new door handles)
  2. Hammer. A tool used to hit nails and break apart materials such as brick and concrete. (eg: hammering in nails to hang curtains)
  3. Wrench. A tool used to tighten and loosen bolts, nuts, and screws. (eg: tightening loose bolts on a ladder)
  4. Pliers. A tool used to hold, twist, and cut materials such as wires and pipes. (eg: snipping wires for electrical repairs)
  5. Screwdriver. A tool used to insert and remove screws from surfaces. (eg: replacing a doorknob)
  6. Saw. A tool used to cut through different materials such as wood, metal, and plastic. (eg: cutting boards for a shelving unit)
  7. Soldering Iron. A tool used to join two pieces of metal with solder. (eg: repairing a pipe leak)
  8. Ladder. A tool used to access areas which are at a higher elevation. (eg: cleaning windows)
  9. Tape Measure. A tool used to measure distances accurately. (eg: measuring lengths for a new countertop)
  10. Level. A tool used to ensure an even surface in terms of vertical alignment. (eg: leveling a new cabinet)

Professional Organizations to Know

  1. American Society of Building Maintenance (ASBM)
  2. Building Owners and Managers Association International (BOMA)
  3. International Facility Management Association (IFMA)
  4. Association of Physical Plant Administrators (APPA)
  5. International Association for Healthcare Security & Safety (IAHSS)
  6. National Apartment Association (NAA)
  7. American Institute of Plant Engineers (AIPE)
  8. Building Performance Institute (BPI)
  9. American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE)
  10. National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)

We also have Building Automation Technician, Building Superintendent, and Building Services Coordinator jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

  1. Building Maintenance. The process of keeping a building in good condition by performing regular inspections and repairs.
  2. Preventive Maintenance. The practice of performing regular maintenance and inspections to prevent potential problems from arising.
  3. HVAC Systems. Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems that provide comfortable temperatures, humidity control, and air circulation.
  4. Electrical Systems. The systems that provide power to the entire building, including wiring, outlets, switches, and breakers.
  5. Plumbing Systems. The systems of pipes, drains, and fixtures that provide water and wastewater removal from the building.
  6. Life Safety Systems. Equipment that is installed to ensure the safety of occupants in the event of an emergency. This includes fire alarms, sprinkler systems, and emergency lighting.
  7. Building Code Compliance. Ensuring that the building meets all local and national codes and regulations related to construction and safety.
  8. Scheduling. Organizing maintenance tasks and repairs into a logical schedule to ensure that all necessary repairs are completed in a timely manner.
  9. Budgeting. Managing the costs associated with maintenance tasks and repairs to ensure that they stay within the allocated budget.
  10. Risk Management. Identifying potential risks associated with maintenance tasks and repairs and taking steps to mitigate them.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the primary responsibilities of a Building Maintenance Supervisor?

The primary responsibilities of a Building Maintenance Supervisor include overseeing maintenance staff, managing and completing maintenance projects, ensuring compliance with safety and health regulations, troubleshooting and resolving maintenance-related issues, and coordinating preventive maintenance programs.

What qualifications are necessary to be a Building Maintenance Supervisor?

Qualifications necessary to be a Building Maintenance Supervisor include a minimum of three years of experience in related fields such as construction, engineering, or facilities management, extensive knowledge of building systems and equipment, excellent communication and organizational skills, and a valid driver's license.

What is the average annual salary for a Building Maintenance Supervisor?

The average annual salary for a Building Maintenance Supervisor is approximately $52,000.

What certifications may be beneficial for a Building Maintenance Supervisor?

Certifications that may be beneficial for a Building Maintenance Supervisor include HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and carpentry certifications.

What type of environment does a Building Maintenance Supervisor typically work in?

A Building Maintenance Supervisor typically works in an indoor environment that may include residential buildings, commercial properties, or industrial facilities.

Web Resources

  • Building Maintenance Supervisor - jobs.jhu.edu jobs.jhu.edu
  • Supervisor, Building Maintenance - University of … www.uhd.edu
  • Building Maintenance | Kent State University www.kent.edu
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