Maintenance Assistant

Role overview

V!VA Retirement Communities is building its new Leaside residence in Toronto, opening in 2026, and is looking for a Maintenance Assistant to join the launch team. This role is focused on helping create a high-quality living environment for older adults in a luxury retirement setting, with an emphasis on service, safety, and keeping the community running smoothly.

About the organization

V!VA Retirement Communities is a Canadian retirement living company centered on people-first service and a “Making Today Great!” approach. The organization aims to bring together a committed team that delivers strong performance, compassionate service, and a welcoming atmosphere for community members and team members alike.

What the role involves

The Maintenance Assistant supports the Building Services Manager in looking after the day-to-day maintenance and upkeep of the community. The work includes keeping the property safe, functional, well-maintained, and visually appealing, while helping ensure a positive experience for residents and staff.

Core duties

• Support maintenance programs covering HVAC, plumbing, water, gas, electrical, mechanical, communications, carpentry, painting, drywall, refinishing, grounds upkeep, and equipment care.
• Monitor the swimming pool to ensure safe operation, keep chemistry logs current, make adjustments as needed, and coordinate supply orders with the Building Services Manager.
• Handle exterior maintenance tasks such as general cleaning, garbage removal, and snow clearing.
• Help prepare vacated suites quickly so they can be made available to new prospects without delay.
• Work with the Building Services Manager to complete annual safety reviews of suites and common areas and keep accurate records.
• Keep shared spaces in good repair, neat, and attractive, and address repair needs promptly.
• Inspect equipment and systems regularly, including security and emergency systems such as backup generators and cameras, to confirm they are safe and operating properly.
• Support or arrange emergency maintenance work when required.
• Maintain records, receipts, ledgers, and follow-up on maintenance contracts as directed.
• Receive and store community supplies as needed.
• Take part in health and safety, fire safety, and quality improvement initiatives, including fire safety training for team members and monthly fire drills.
• Follow through on environmental services issues in coordination with community members, families, and other team members.
• Communicate building and resident-related concerns clearly to the Building Services Manager by email, writing, or verbally.
• Assist with monthly, quarterly, and annual audits as requested.
• Support infection control procedures, including outbreak-related protocols when necessary.
• Take on additional assignments and special projects as needed.

Candidate profile

The ideal applicant has hands-on maintenance experience, preferably in a retirement or similar residential environment, and can work independently while also contributing as a dependable team player. The role calls for someone who is practical, organized, safety-conscious, and comfortable working around seniors with compassion and professionalism.

Requirements

• At least 2 years of relevant experience in building maintenance; experience in a retirement setting is an asset.
• Training in key maintenance areas is preferred.
• Working knowledge of plumbing, HVAC, electrical work, minor painting, and drywall repair.
• Understanding of provincial health and safety rules.
• Familiarity with building maintenance systems.
• Comfortable using MS Office applications such as Outlook, Word, and Excel.
• Strong communication skills in both spoken and written English.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with peers and supervisors, while respecting team priorities.
• Able to manage time well and work with minimal supervision.
• Valid CPR and First Aid certification.
• Current vulnerable sector police check, to be verified annually.
• Physically able to bend, stretch, sit, stand for long periods, climb ladders, work in tight spaces, and lift up to 50 lbs.
• Available for flexible hours, weekend shifts, and on-call emergency support.

Additional information

• Hourly wage: $22.
• Competitive compensation and benefits are offered, including health benefits, team meals, vacation, sick pay, and other perks.
• The employer uses AI tools to help screen applications.
• The current vacancy status is listed as new.
• The community requires all new team members to be vaccinated against COVID-19, subject to accommodation for religious or medical reasons in line with applicable human rights and accessibility laws.
• Applicants must be able to provide proof that they are eligible to work in Canada for the next 6 months.
• The employer welcomes applicants with disabilities and provides accommodations on request during the selection process.
• A job fair is being held for the Leaside opening team: July 17 and 18, 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM, at Leaside Memorial Community Gardens, William Lea Room, 1073 Millwood Rd., Toronto, ON.
• Walk-ins are welcome; candidates should bring a resume and energy.
• The role is part of a community opening scheduled for Fall 2026.