Sr. Service Technician

Sr. Service TechnicianLocation: Santa Cruz, CA | Company: Rutherford Management CompanyAt Rutherford Management Company, our Sr. Service Technicians are trusted leaders who ensure our communities are safe, well-maintained, and beautifully presented. In this role, you'll oversee maintenance operations across a multi-site portfolio and serve as a key contributor to the resident experience.You'll lead with a hospitality-first mindset-prioritizing resident satisfaction while executing high standards in preventative maintenance, vendor coordination, unit turnover, and curb appeal. Whether you're managing your team, resolving a service issue, or preparing for a renovation project, your leadership will directly impact the quality of life for hundreds of residents.This role is ideal for a hands-on professional who thrives on balancing operational excellence with meaningful service.Key ResponsibilitiesMaintenance Operations & Resident ServiceTriage and manage daily service requests across multiple communitiesMaintain exceptional response times and ensure quality repairs with a customer-first approachParticipate in and oversee after-hours emergency on-call rotationConduct regular property walks and risk audits to ensure safety and compliancePreventative Maintenance & Capital ProjectsCreate and maintain preventative maintenance schedulesPartner with the Director of Construction on large-scale repairs and renovationsCoordinate seasonal projects and assist in forecasting capital needsCurb Appeal & Community CleanlinessMaintain a strong visual standard across all sites, from landscaping to signageEnsure cleanliness and presentation of entryways, amenities, and shared spacesSet the tone for first impressions through proactive inspections and quality assuranceTurnover & Unit ReadinessCoordinate turnovers to meet move-in timelines with zero-defect expectationsCollaborate with the Resident Experience Director and Leasing & Hospitality Specialist to ensure leasing deadlines are metWalk all completed units to ensure readiness and compliance with standardsTeam & Vendor LeadershipSupervise and mentor maintenance team membersSource, schedule, and evaluate vendor performanceManage maintenance supply inventory and ensure budget-aligned purchasingFinancial & Reporting OversightMonitor controllable maintenance expenses across the portfolioSupport annual budget planning and provide recommendations for capital improvementsTrack performance metrics and submit reports on service delivery trendsWhat Success Looks LikeResidents feel safe, cared for, and confident in the service they receiveCommunities are visually appealing and functionally sound, day in and day outTurnovers are efficient, on time, and exceed quality expectationsMaintenance operations support broader occupancy, retention, and financial goalsSkills & ExperienceMinimum 3-5 years of experience in facilities or property maintenance (multi-site preferred)Demonstrated leadership experience managing teams or vendorsCertified in HVAC or related trade strongly preferredFamiliarity with OSHA, building codes, and general safety proceduresProficient with maintenance work order platforms and property management softwareExcellent organizational, communication, and time-management skillsCompany CultureAt Rutherford, we lead with hospitality, and we expect our team members to do the same. Our Service Managers play a critical leadership role in our communities and help shape the day-to-day experience of our residents and team members.We're looking for people who are:Driven: You show up, follow through, and take pride in your workCollaborative: You partner across roles to find solutions and elevate the teamHigh-Integrity: You lead by example, act ethically, and earn trustQuality-Focused: You care about the details and always strive to do betterService-Minded: You see maintenance as a form of care, and take it personallyWork EnvironmentWork hours are generally 8am-5pm, Monday through Friday, with participation in a rotating emergency on-call schedule. Travel between properties is required for multi-site portfolios. Occasional evening/weekend availability may be needed for turnovers, projects, or emergency response.This position will oversee the Maintenance & Facilities Operations of 203 apartment homes. This is a multi-site service technician position.What We Offer$33-$39/hr, though new team members generally start between $33-$35/hrA high-impact leadership role within a growing hospitality-focused companyCompetitive pay, performance bonuses, and full medical/dental/vision benefitsPaid time off-including PTO for volunteer workHousing discounts of 20% (where applicable)Participation in RISE, our signature development program focused on professional growth, leadership, and recognition. RISE is what sets us apart-it's how we support our team with purpose, heart, and high standards.Driving RequirementThis position requires regular driving. Candidates must possess and maintain a valid California Driver's License, a reliable personal vehicle, and current automobile insurance in compliance with California state law.Physical RequirementsMust be able to lift/move up to 50 lbs, climb ladders, and perform physically active tasks including bending, kneeling, reaching, walking stairs, and standing for extended periods.Background Check and Drug Screen Required