Facilities Maintenance Technician

Title: Facilities Maintenance Technician

Location: Duke Farms, Hillsborough, N.J.

Reports to: Facilities Manager

Status: Full time, non-exempt (in-person)

How to Apply: Click here to apply. Please send a résumé. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Located in Hillsborough Township, N.J., Duke Farms is a center for applied conservation and sustainability that restores nature and ecosystems, demonstrates equitable climate transition strategies and engages leaders and visitors with the wonder of nature to spark change. Our wide-ranging sustainability efforts include the operation of a 1,000-acre park and associated infrastructure supporting over 200,000 public visitors a year.

Duke Farms is a center of the Doris Duke Foundation (DDF), whose mission is to build a more creative, equitable and sustainable future by investing in artists and the performing arts, environmental conservation, medical research, child well-being and greater mutual understanding among diverse communities. In addition to Duke Farms, DDF operates five national grantmaking programs as well as Shangri La, a global center for transformation located in Honolulu, Hawai‘i. DDF’s activities are guided by the will of Doris Duke, who endowed the foundation with financial assets that currently total over $2 billion. (To learn more about the foundation, visit dorisduke.org.)

POSITION

The Facilities Maintenance Technician plays a key role in ensuring the functionality and reliability of HVAC systems across a large campus encompassing multiple buildings and 2,700 acres. This position involves performing skilled technical work in maintaining, repairing and operating heating, cooling and ventilation systems, including heat pumps, oil- and gas-fired steam boilers, and hot water systems. The Technician will also be responsible for handling all related plumbing, electrical, general carpentry and contractor oversight. Familiarity with the safe operation of tools and equipment and proficiency in web-based workflow platforms is essential to ensure the smooth and efficient completion of tasks. By ensuring a well-maintained and operating environment, the Facilities Maintenance Technician directly supports the foundation’s mission around sustainability through the preservation and enhancement of Duke Farms’ natural and built environment.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• HVAC Maintenance and Repair: Perform maintenance, troubleshooting and repairs on HVAC systems, including but not limited to heat pumps, oil- and gas-fired steam systems, hot water systems and associated equipment.
• System Monitoring and Building Management System: Monitor and adjust the campuswide building management system to optimize HVAC system performance and energy efficiency. Make necessary adjustments to maintain proper functionality.
• Plumbing and Electrical Repairs: Diagnose and resolve plumbing and electrical problems related to HVAC systems. Handle minor plumbing issues and perform electrical work involving low- and high-voltage circuits for HVAC and related equipment.
• Carpentry and General Maintenance: Perform basic carpentry tasks such as repairing doors, windows and other structural components related to HVAC installations and maintenance. Ensure that building structures are kept in good condition and meet safety standards.
• Tools and Equipment Operation: Operate all hand tools, power tools and diagnostic equipment safely and effectively for HVAC, plumbing, electrical and carpentry work. Adhere to safety regulations and best practices when using ladders, lifts and other specialized equipment.
• Technology Utilization: Use web-based workflow platforms to receive, track and complete work orders and maintenance tasks efficiently. Submit timely updates, reports and data to supervisors and team members for effective communication.
• Contractor Management: Coordinate and oversee third-party contractors performing repairs, installations or maintenance work on campus. Communicate expectations and ensure that contractors meet specifications, budgets, timelines and safety standards.
• Preventive Maintenance: Conduct routine inspections, preventive maintenance and service on mechanical, electrical, plumbing and carpentry systems. Identify potential issues to ensure the safety, reliability and efficiency of campus facilities.
• Emergency Repairs: Respond promptly to emergency repair needs for HVAC, plumbing, electrical or carpentry systems. Execute repairs in a timely manner to minimize disruptions to critical operations.
• Documentation and Reporting: Maintain detailed records of maintenance activities, repairs, contractor work and system performance. Provide comprehensive reports and recommendations for improving system efficiency and reducing operational costs.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Demonstrated experience in HVAC maintenance and repair, with specific expertise in heat pumps, oil- and gas-fired steam systems, hot water systems and associated plumbing, electrical and carpentry work. HVAC certification or relevant trade school diploma is preferred. Basic electrical certifications are desirable. EPA certification for handling refrigerants is a plus.
• Experience in overseeing and managing contractors is essential.
• Experience with building management systems for monitoring and optimizing HVAC performance.
• Proficiency in the safe operation of hand tools, power tools and diagnostic equipment.
• Ability to lift and carry heavy equipment weighing as much as 50 pounds, work in confined spaces, climb ladders and perform physically demanding tasks. Must be able to respond to emergencies during off-hours when needed.
• Ability to traverse the 2,700-plus-acre Duke Farms property as well as travel to other locations.
• Valid driver’s license and clean driving record.
• Experience using web-based workflow platforms for managing tasks and reporting updates.
• Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail and ability to work independently or as part of a team.
• Knowledge of energy-efficient practices and sustainable HVAC technologies is preferred.
• Familiarity with safety protocols for hazardous materials and confined space entry is preferred.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

• Anticipated starting hourly rate is $21-$26, and the final offer will depend on experience.
• Industry-leading benefits, including a 15% employer contribution to your 401(k), comprehensive health insurance, four weeks paid vacation with additional paid time off, and matching gift benefits of up to $20,000 per year—all designed to support employees’ well-being, productivity and engagement.

OUR VALUES

The following values underpin everything we do in pursuit of our mission across the Doris Duke Foundation:

Integrity: We must be honest and ethical in all that we undertake. As a group of private foundations, we are accountable to the many stakeholders affected by our work.

Excellence: We will insist on the highest standards of performance in fulfilling our mission, will ground our work in best practices and will make decisions based on the best available information.

Openness and Imagination: We will be a listening and learning organization that is responsive to ideas and opinions from a variety of sources. We value imagination and creativity, the ability to think in new ways about the work we do and how we do it.

Collaboration: We value a collaborative and supportive environment in which to advance our mission and objectives. Creating a working environment that promotes trust, honesty and respect within our organizations is as important as earning the trust and respect of our colleagues and peers in the fields in which we work.

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion: We believe in the essential value that a diverse set of perspectives, experiences and abilities brings to the table. Our commitment to the values of diversity, equity, inclusion and social justice is an ongoing, active engagement reflected in our funding areas, grantees, museums, centers, board and staff. At the core of our work is a dedication to serving and learning from organizations and individuals addressing inequities and working toward a more just, healthy and inclusive society. (Learn more about our commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion, and how we incorporate this value into our work.)

The Doris Duke Foundation is committed to inclusive hiring and equal employment opportunity. We strongly encourage candidates of all identities, experiences, orientations and communities to apply. Our recruiting and employment practices adhere to all applicable federal, state and local laws, including the Americans with Disabilities Act. We provide reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities. If a reasonable accommodation in the job application process is needed, please contact us here.