Maintenance Engineer | Houston, TX

Job Title: Maintenance Engineer

Department: Exhibits

Reports To: Becky Seabrook

FLSA Status: Exempt

Job Summary:

The Exhibit Technician will work closely with other staff members on the fabrication, installation and maintenance of in-house, traveling and off-site exhibitions. The primary focus of this position is on the daily care and upkeep of exhibit components, ensuring that they are maintained to a high level and conducting or arranging repairs when required.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Exhibit Maintenance and fabrication:

• Perform routine inspections, troubleshooting, and repairs on interactive and static exhibits to ensure their safety and functionality.
• Fabricate and install new exhibits or components as directed, including carpentry, electrical work, painting, and mechanical assembly.
• Collaborates with the exhibits team to implement improvements and upgrades to exhibits.
• Maintain documentation of exhibit maintenance schedules, repairs, and updates.
• Assists in the setup and takedown of traveling exhibits, ensuring proper installation and functionality.

2. Safety and Compliance:

• Ensure all maintenance activities company with relevant safety codes and regulations.
• Monitor the condition of the facility and exhibits, reporting and safety concerns to management promptly.
• Maintain an organized and safe workspace, including the proper storage of tools and materials.

3. Daily:

• Daily start-up of galleries
• Inspect exhibit galleries throughout the day to ensure all activities, computer kiosks, displays and gallery environments are safe, properly lit and fully functional.
• Initiate exhibit maintenance and repairs as needed.
• Maintain gallery lighting systems, replacing lamps as needed. Ability to operate scissor lift and climb ladders to reach overhead lighting required.
• Construct and install museum exhibit structures and other elements using a range of materials and tools/equipment: table saw, skill saw drill press pneumatic tools, router, etc.
• Proficient use of hand tools.
• Coordinate and set up and take down of temporary/traveling exhibits and displays. Supervise shipping, receiving, installation and maintenance of rented traveling exhibitions.

4. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Knowledgeable in the use of basic carpentry and wood-working techniques, hand tools, power tools, basic electrical wiring and lighting, painting and adhesives, and associated safety practices.
• Basic understanding of audio-visual equipment, with the ability to learn new skills in regard to operating and maintaining specialized AV systems.

Qualifications:

· Education:

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field is preferred.

· Experience:

• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in a maintenance engineering or facilities management role.
• Experience with museum exhibits preferred.

· Skills:

• Strong mechanical and electrical troubleshooting skills.
• Proficient in reading blueprints, schematics, and technical manuals.
• Strong problem-solving abilities and attention to detail.
• Basic computer skills for documentation and reporting purposes.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to lift up to 35 pounds regularly.
• Capable of climbing ladders, working in confined spaces, and standing for extended periods.
• Comfortable working in varying temperatures and environmental conditions.

Work Environment:

• Work is performed in both indoor and outdoor settings, including mechanical rooms and equipment areas.
• Exposure to machinery, noise, and tools is common; appropriate PPE must be worn at all times.

Key Competencies:

• Strong technical knowledge and hands-on skills.
• Effective communication and teamwork abilities.
• Proactive approach to identifying and solving maintenance issues.
• Commitment to maintaining a safe and efficient working environment.

Starting rate: $58,000 annually 

Resumes can be sent to kbirdsell@thehealthmuseum.org