Area Maintenance Manager at Bender Companies

Chicago, Illinois, United States -

Full Time

Start Date

Immediate

Expiry Date

23 Jan, 26

Salary

110000.0

Posted On

25 Oct, 25

Experience

5 year(s) or above

Remote Job

Yes

Telecommute

Yes

Sponsor Visa

Skills

Maintenance Leadership, Building Systems, Mechanical Knowledge, Construction, Unit Turns, Preventative Maintenance, Vendor Management, Project Oversight, ClickUp, AppFolio, Problem Solving, Team Mentoring, Safety Compliance, Operational Efficiency, Field Coaching, Technical Expertise

Industry

Real Estate

Description

What We are Looking For: Bender Companies is looking for an experienced Area Maintenance Manager who is passionate about leading maintenance operations and driving performance across a portfolio of multifamily and commercial properties. The ideal candidate leads by example and enjoys hands-on work. They teach and mentor effectively, build trust through consistency, and balance quick problem-solving with long-term property planning. A strong technical background, solution-focused mindset, and passion for developing others are essential to success in this travel-focused role. Compensation: $100,000-110,000/yr Here are some things that will make you successful: 5–7+ years of maintenance leadership experience, preferably in multifamily housing managing and training teams of 10+ people Deep understanding of building systems, mechanicals, construction, and unit turns. Ability to teach, lead, and mentor others effectively through hands-on field work. Strong knowledge of preventative maintenance, vendor management, and project oversight. Proficiency with ClickUp, basic AppFolio functionality, and general tech familiarity. Ability to travel regionally daily to properties (valid driver’s license and reliable transportation required). Solution-focused mindset with a “think like an owner” approach. What you will be doing: As the Area Maintenance Manager, you will drive initiatives to improve property upkeep and operational efficiency across our multifamily portfolio. This position works closely with CapEx, Property Managers and on-site maintenance teams at 24 properties to elevate standards, solve problems, and ensure operational excellence. While on-site techs report to their respective Property Managers, the AMM is responsible for leading by example, coaching teams in the field, ensuring proactive maintenance practices, improving turn times, and overseeing vendor performance. You will also conduct regular property visits to assess conditions, manage preventative maintenance programs, and help prioritize deferred maintenance and safety needs, all while ensuring compliance and clear communication across teams. Core responsibilities include: Team Support and Field Coaching Partner with Property Managers to drive maintenance results across the portfolio. Visit properties daily to mentor techs, provide on-the-job training, and elevate performance. Serve as a subject matter expert across all trades (HVAC, plumbing, electrical, carpentry). Recommend hiring, staffing structure, and training needs to Regional Managers. Maintenance Operations and Turnovers Ensure work orders are completed within 48 hours and units are turned in 7 days. Collaborate with site teams to reduce downtime between residents and maintain high-quality standards. Support on-site teams with troubleshooting complex repairs or vendor coordination. Preventative and Deferred Maintenance Develop and implement preventative maintenance schedules tailored to each property’s needs. Ensure compliance with lender-required deferred maintenance and safety repairs. Conduct regular inspections to proactively identify capital needs and life/safety risks. Vendor Management and Cost Control Source and establish new vendor relationships to expand Bender’s maintenance network. Oversee vendor execution for both day-to-day service and capex projects. Ensure bids are competitive and scope aligns with company standards and budget expectations. Technology and Workflow Oversight Use ClickUp to manage capex and renovation projects, ensuring timely and organized execution. Utilize AppFolio to input work orders or review project notes. Support techs in using property management systems efficiently and consistently. Help improve inventory tracking and usage controls across the portfolio. Compliance, Safety, and Quality Assurance Promote a culture of safety and accountability across all sites. Conduct field audits and quality checks to ensure properties meet operational standards. Provide guidance on compliance with OSHA, local codes, and company policies. Travel Requirements: This is a travel-heavy role. The Area Maintenance Manager will spend full weeks on-site at properties, 8:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m. Daily travel is typically within a 2-hour/100-mile radius, using a company-provided or personal vehicle with a monthly travel stipend. Occasionally, overnight travel, including flights to distant locations like Omaha, will be required, with lodging, meals, and transportation covered by the company. This hands-on schedule ensures close coaching, operational oversight, and strong relationships with property teams. Why work for Bender Companies: 90% employer-paid coverage of base Medical Insurance plan 75% employer-paid coverage of base Dental Insurance plan 75% employer-paid coverage of Vision Insurance plan 401K with company match 11 Paid Holidays 2 weeks of annual PTO 16 hours of personal time Exciting company growth and potential for career advancement Supportive Team Mission focused on providing quality workforce housing Background checks will be performed on all qualified applicants. Equal opportunity employer.

Responsibilities

The Area Maintenance Manager will drive initiatives to improve property upkeep and operational efficiency across a multifamily portfolio. This includes mentoring on-site techs, overseeing vendor performance, and ensuring compliance with maintenance standards.