How to Be Commercial Property Maintenance Technician - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Jan 14, 2020 / 6 Minutes Read / By Albert

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Property maintenance technicians play an important role in the health and safety of commercial buildings. By regularly performing maintenance and repairs, they help to ensure that the building is kept in good condition and that it meets health and safety standards. This, in turn, helps to protect the occupants of the building from potential hazards and ensures that the property maintains its value.

In addition to repairs, property maintenance technicians may be responsible for performing inspections, implementing preventative maintenance plans, keeping records of work performed, and providing advice on energy efficiency. Their work helps to ensure that commercial properties are safe, efficient, and attractive.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a high school diploma or equivalent. Most employers require applicants for commercial property maintenance technician positions to have at least a high school diploma or equivalent.
Get certified. Becoming certified as a maintenance technician is not always required but can be beneficial in the job market. The National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) offers a certification program specifically for commercial property maintenance technicians.
Gain experience. Many employers prefer to hire maintenance technicians with previous experience in the field, so gaining experience is important. Consider working as an apprentice or intern to gain experience and learn the industry.
Consider additional training. Many employers prefer to hire maintenance technicians who have completed additional coursework or training. Consider taking additional classes or seminars related to the industry to increase your knowledge and skill set.
Apply for available positions. Once you have the necessary education, certification, experience and/or training, you can begin applying for available positions as a commercial property maintenance technician.

Maintaining a commercial property requires staying up to date on the latest technology, understanding building codes and regulations, and having the right tools. If a property is not kept up to date, it can lead to issues such as decreased energy efficiency, increased maintenance costs, and potential safety concerns. By investing in the proper education, equipment, and supplies, a property maintenance technician can ensure that a commercial property is running efficiently, safely, and cost-effectively.

Furthermore, regular inspections can help identify any potential issues before they become serious problems. By investing in quality maintenance services, property owners can rest assured that their property is well-maintained and in good condition.

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Job Description

Inspect assigned property to identify maintenance and repair needs.
Respond to tenant requests for maintenance and repairs in a timely manner.
Maintain the appearance of the property grounds and buildings, including painting, cleaning, and landscaping.
Perform minor repairs such as replacing light bulbs, unclogging drains, and fixing broken doors and windows.
Make sure safety and security measures are up-to-date.
Perform preventive maintenance tasks such as lubricating equipment and checking fire extinguishers.
Repair or replace plumbing fixtures and electrical wiring and switches.
Install, repair, and maintain HVAC systems and appliances.
Troubleshoot malfunctions and make repairs to equipment and facilities.
Arrange for major repairs to be done by outside contractors.
Monitor building systems to ensure proper performance and compliance with safety regulations.
Keep records of maintenance and repair work done on the property.
Assist with the preparation of the property for rental showings or inspections.
Assist with snow removal in winter months.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Ability to read and interpret blueprints, schematics and technical documents.
Knowledge of the principles, techniques and tools of general maintenance, repair and construction.
Ability to diagnose and troubleshoot problems.
Knowledge of safety regulations and procedures.
Ability to use hand and power tools safely and efficiently.
Knowledge of plumbing, electrical, carpentry and painting.
Ability to lift heavy objects and climb ladders.
Excellent customer service skills.
Ability to work independently and with minimal supervision.
Ability to work in a team environment.

Good property maintenance technicians need to have a wide range of skills to ensure their property is kept in top condition. One of the most important skills for a property maintenance technician to have is good problem-solving skills. When something breaks down or needs to be repaired, the technician needs to be able to identify the cause and effect of the issue, and quickly find the best solution.

Another key skill is having an eye for detail, as small issues can easily lead to larger problems if not addressed. Property maintenance technicians should also be organized and efficient so that they can complete the necessary tasks in an efficient manner. good communication skills are essential for a property maintenance technician as they will need to communicate with various stakeholders and tenants.

Finally, strong technical and mechanical skills are important so that the technician is able to carry out repairs and replacements with confidence. All of these skills are essential for property maintenance technicians to ensure their properties are in top condition and any issues are quickly and efficiently resolved.

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Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in commercial property maintenance?
How do you stay up to date on the latest techniques and tools in commercial property maintenance?
Describe a recent project you completed in commercial property maintenance.
What safety protocols do you follow when performing maintenance tasks?
What challenges have you faced while working on commercial properties?
How do you prioritize tasks in order to be efficient?
What do you do when you encounter a problem that you cannot solve?
Describe your experience in dealing with customers on commercial property maintenance projects.
What are your thoughts on using green technologies and practices to improve commercial property maintenance?
What do you think makes a successful commercial property maintenance technician?

Common Tools in Industry

Power Washer. Used to clean hard surfaces such as walls, floors and sidewalks. (eg: Power washing the exterior of a commercial building)
Hammer Drill. Used to drill holes in concrete or masonry. (eg: Installing anchors in a concrete wall)
Pressure Washer. Used to apply high pressure water to remove dirt and debris. (eg: Pressure washing the parking lot of a commercial building)
Ladder. Used to access high areas such as ceilings or gutters. (eg: Cleaning out a clogged gutter)
Hand Tools. Used for general repairs such as tightening screws, cutting wires, etc. (eg: Replacing a broken door handle)
Plumbing Tools. Used to repair and install plumbing fixtures such as toilets, sinks, etc. (eg: Replacing a toilet in a bathroom)
Paint Brushes. Used to apply paint to walls and other surfaces. (eg: Painting the interior walls of a commercial building)
Floor Buffer. Used to buff and polish hard floor surfaces. (eg: Buffing the floors of a commercial building)
Chainsaw. Used to cut down trees and other large objects. (eg: Cutting down a tree near a commercial building)
Snow Blower. Used to clear snow from walkways, driveways, and parking lots. (eg: Clearing snow from the parking lot of a commercial building)

Professional Organizations to Know

Building Owners and Managers Association International (BOMA International)
International Facility Management Association (IFMA)
National Apartment Association (NAA)
International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC)
Association of Physical Plant Administrators (APPA)
National Association of Industrial and Office Properties (NAIOP)
American Society of Professional Estimators (ASPE)
Property Management Association (PMA)
Institute of Real Estate Management (IREM)
American Institute of Architects (AIA)

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Common Important Terms

HVAC. Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning. A system used to regulate air temperature, humidity, and air quality in commercial buildings.
Plumbing. The system of pipes, fixtures, and drains used to carry water and other liquids in a commercial building.
Electrical Systems. The wiring, circuits, and other components used to provide power to a commercial building.
Fire Protection. The system of alarms, sprinklers, and other safety measures used to prevent the spread of fire in a commercial building.
Building Maintenance. The routine upkeep performed on a commercial building to ensure its safety and proper functioning.
Roof Maintenance. The process of inspecting, repairing, and maintaining the roof of a commercial building.
Grounds Maintenance. The process of mowing, weeding, and maintaining the lawns and landscaping of a commercial building.
Painting. The process of applying fresh coats of paint to the walls and other surfaces of a commercial building.
Janitorial Services. The process of cleaning and maintaining the interior of a commercial building.
Carpentry. The process of constructing, repairing, and maintaining wooden structures in a commercial building.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Commercial Property Maintenance Technician?

A Commercial Property Maintenance Technician is a professional who is responsible for performing maintenance and repair services on commercial buildings, facilities, and grounds.

What skills are required to be a Commercial Property Maintenance Technician?

The skills required to be a Commercial Property Maintenance Technician include knowledge of basic building and construction materials and techniques, HVAC systems, plumbing, electrical systems, carpentry, painting, and landscaping.

What type of training is required to become a Commercial Property Maintenance Technician?

Training to become a Commercial Property Maintenance Technician typically includes a combination of on-the-job experience and formal education. Common requirements for certification include completion of an accredited program, passing an exam, and obtaining a license from the state in which the technician is working.

What is the average salary of a Commercial Property Maintenance Technician?

The average salary for a Commercial Property Maintenance Technician is typically around $44,000 per year.

What are some of the common duties of a Commercial Property Maintenance Technician?

Common duties of a Commercial Property Maintenance Technician include inspecting buildings for safety and compliance, performing repairs and maintenance tasks on structures and equipment, keeping records of maintenance activities, and managing the budget for maintenance and repair services.