Skilled Trades Intern – School Facilities

Description

Eastern Greene Schools - Maintenance Internship Program

Organization Description:
Eastern Greene Schools is a rural K-12 public school district committed to providing a safe, welcoming, and high-quality learning environment for our students and staff. We value hands-on, career-connected learning experiences that prepare students for future success in the workforce. As part of our mission to develop skilled professionals, we have partnered with Work + Learn Indiana and the EARN program to offer high-quality, paid internship opportunities that align with industry needs and workforce development goals.

Internship Program Overview:
Our Maintenance Internship provides students with valuable, real-world experience in facility maintenance, repair, and operations within an educational setting. Interns will work alongside our experienced maintenance team to develop skills in construction, building upkeep, and mechanical systems. This internship is designed to support career exploration in the trades and skilled labor while providing meaningful, hands-on work that benefits our school community.

Supervision, Training, and Mentorship

Interns will work under close supervision from one of our experienced maintenance professionals, David Fields or Todd Inman. They will provide hands-on training, mentorship, and support throughout the internship.

Supervision & Training:

• Daily guidance from an assigned supervisor (David Fields or Todd Inman).
• Hands-on training in general maintenance, carpentry, plumbing, electrical work, and HVAC basics.
• Safety training on the proper use of tools, equipment, and materials.
• Workplace readiness instruction, including professionalism, teamwork, and problem-solving.

Mentorship:

• One-on-one mentoring to help interns develop career goals and technical skills.
• Exposure to industry best practices and insights into career pathways in construction, facilities management, and skilled trades.
• Opportunities to network with professionals and gain references for future employment or education.

Intern Learning Goals

By the end of the internship, interns will:

1. Develop Technical Skills: Gain hands-on experience in building maintenance, including painting, minor repairs, and basic electrical, plumbing, and HVAC work.
2. Understand Workplace Safety: Learn and apply OSHA safety standards and best practices for handling tools and materials safely.
3. Enhance Problem-Solving Abilities: Work through real-world maintenance challenges and develop troubleshooting skills.
4. Strengthen Communication & Teamwork: Work collaboratively with staff and supervisors to complete projects efficiently.
5. Explore Career Pathways: Gain exposure to careers in skilled trades and facility management, helping interns make informed career decisions.

This paid internship is an opportunity for students to build skills, gain industry-relevant experience, and contribute meaningfully to their school community. It aligns with Work + Learn Indiana’s mission by providing career-connected, employer-driven, and equity-focused learning experiences that prepare students for future success.

Responsibilities

Intern Responsibilities – Maintenance Internship

The Maintenance Intern at Eastern Greene Schools will gain hands-on experience in building maintenance, facility operations, and repair work while supporting the upkeep and safety of our school buildings and grounds. Interns will actively participate in a variety of maintenance projects and will not be limited to administrative or clerical tasks.

Primary Responsibilities & Projects:

Interns will work under the direct supervision of David Fields or Todd Inman and will assist with a range of hands-on maintenance tasks, including:

1. Facility Maintenance & Repairs

   • Assist with painting projects (classrooms, hallways, exterior touch-ups).
   • Perform minor repairs to doors, windows, furniture, and fixtures.
   • Learn and assist with basic carpentry tasks such as assembling, sanding, and finishing materials.

2. Building Systems & Equipment Support

   • Assist with basic plumbing repairs, such as fixing leaks or replacing fixtures.
   • Learn about HVAC system operations and assist in routine maintenance.
   • Help inspect and replace lighting fixtures and perform minor electrical work under supervision.

3. Groundskeeping & Outdoor Maintenance

   • Support landscaping efforts, including trimming bushes, planting flowers, and clearing debris.
   • Assist with seasonal work, including snow removal, salting sidewalks, and leaf clearing.
   • Participate in playground and athletic field inspections to ensure safety compliance.

4. Safety & Preventative Maintenance

   • Conduct routine building inspections to identify maintenance needs.
   • Assist in equipment checks and servicing (e.g., power tools, custodial machines).
   • Learn and follow workplace safety guidelines and OSHA regulations.

5. Project-Based Learning

   • Participate in special projects, such as minor renovation work or facility improvements.
   • Work alongside maintenance staff to develop problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
   • Gain exposure to construction and facilities management career pathways through real-world tasks.

Administrative Work (Less than 25%)

To ensure a meaningful, hands-on learning experience, administrative tasks will be limited to the following:

• Tracking work orders and logging completed tasks.
• Assisting with inventory management for tools and maintenance supplies.
• Helping document maintenance procedures and safety protocols.

This internship prioritizes skill development and career exploration, ensuring that interns engage in valuable, work-based learning experiences that align with Work + Learn Indiana and EARN program guidelines.

Qualifications

Qualifications – Maintenance Internship

The Maintenance Internship at Eastern Greene Schools is designed for students who are eager to gain hands-on experience in facility maintenance, repair, and operations. No prior experience is required—just a willingness to learn, follow instructions, and work as part of a team.

Ideal Candidates Will:

✅ Be willing to follow instructions from experienced maintenance staff.
✅ Listen actively and ask questions when needed.
✅ Use common sense and good judgment when working with tools and equipment.
✅ Follow multi-step directions and complete tasks carefully.
✅ Work safely and be aware of surroundings in an active maintenance environment.
✅ Demonstrate a strong work ethic and be dependable.
✅ Show attention to detail when assisting with repairs and facility upkeep.
✅ Be comfortable performing physical tasks, including standing, lifting (up to 50 lbs.), and working outdoors in various weather conditions.
✅ Have a positive attitude and a willingness to try new tasks.

This internship is a great opportunity for students who enjoy hands-on learning, problem-solving, and working in a team environment. It provides real-world experience in maintenance and skilled trades, helping students build valuable skills for future careers.