Uncommon Schools is a nonprofit network of high-performing, public charter schools providing an outstanding K-12 education in historically under-resourced communities. We have proudly built schools that reflect our student population, with more than 60% of our teachers and staff across our network identifying as a person of color. Uncommon currently manages 53 schools serving 20,000 students in five cities: Boston, Camden, New York City, Newark, and Rochester. We are proud that Uncommon graduates persist in and graduate from college at five times the rate of their peers nationally. We achieve this by offering strong academic, co-curricular, and social-emotional learning that prepares students for success in college and beyond.

The General Maintenance Worker (GMW) plays a crucial role within the Real Estate & Facilities team at Uncommon Schools. Reporting to the on-site Facilities Manager (FM) and working under the guidance of the Senior Manager, Facilities Management Team, the GMW is responsible for maintaining safe, attractive, and functional facilities across Uncommon Schools’ New Jersey portfolio in Newark. The primary focus is to ensure a conducive environment for students, staff, and the broader school community.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Execute a diverse range of general maintenance and repair tasks as directed.
• Conduct routine inspections of building systems including electrical, plumbing, and HVAC, ensuring compliance with state and local regulations.
• Use basic operational knowledge of low-pressure boilers, chiller plants, packaged HVAC units, and water circulation systems.
• Maintain familiarity with life safety and building codes, implementing necessary measures for compliance and ensuring safety protocols are upheld at all work sites and during emergency situations.
• Perform various tasks such as painting, refinishing, flooring repairs, and carpentry work.
• Address minor electrical and plumbing issues, including replacements and installations.
• Utilize the work order system effectively, documenting all tasks accurately and in a timely manner.
• Collaborate with outside contractors, providing recommendations and specifications for repairs as needed.
• Manage inventory of repair parts and supplies, initiating procurement procedures when necessary.
• Assist in snow and ice removal when required.

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Attention to detail and ability to follow instructions accurately.
• Valid driver's license and ability to travel between school sites.
• Proficiency in communication, both verbal and written communication.
• Proficient in the use of power and hand tools.
• Ability to pass a Department of Education criminal record history check.
• Possession or willingness to obtain a low-pressure black seal boiler license; HVAC training certificate or other relevant trade licenses/training preferred.
• Knowledgeable in computer operations, particularly Microsoft Office suite (Word, Outlook, Excel).

Our people are what makes us Uncommon.  We believe our compensation philosophy and benefits should reflect our values—equity, transparency, and clarity—to enhance our ability to attract and retain talent and reward their expertise.  Our staff receive best-in-class training, coaching, and support to develop and operate mission-driven schools that provide a high-quality education to our students and families.

Compensation for this position: The starting compensation for this role based in Newark is between $55,000 to $62,000 per year.  The starting pay will depend on various factors that may include but are not limited to professional experience, education, training, certifications, tenure with Uncommon Schools, and work location.  Because we value staff tenure in each role, we do not currently cap salary ranges.  Please note: ranges may differ for staff who work from a location other than Newark.

Benefits: We offer comprehensive, flexible, and competitive benefits that support the personal health, wellness, and finances of our staff and their families.

Uncommon believes in the importance of being a diverse, equitable and inclusive organization that enables our students and staff to thrive. We are committed to building an exceptional team that reflects the diverse backgrounds and experiences of our students. We also strive to ensure an inclusive community by creating a space for meaningful dialogue about issues of race and identity for our staff and students. As an equal opportunity employer, we hire without consideration to race, religion, creed, color, national origin, age, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran status or disability. We also ensure that individuals with disabilities receive all privileges and benefits associated with employment and are provided reasonable accommodations for the interview process and to perform core job functions. If you would like to request an accommodation, please email [email protected].