Facilities Caretaker, Nankat Liberation Center

To Apply: Please submit your resume, cover letter and information from three references. Reference from an Elder in your community, or respected knowledge holder are highly valued and place a lot of weight: Format can be a letter of recommendation, contact information, audio recording of elder reference.

This is an on-site, live-in position in the North Star Borough with housing provided. Housing will be factored into compensation.

Position Summary

The Facilities Caretaker will provide hands-on maintenance, repair, and operational support for all facilities at the Nankat Liberation Center. This live-in position will report to the Property Manager and serve as essential support for maintaining the Center as a safe, functional, and welcoming space for Native communities. This role requires practical maintenance skills, adaptability to Alaska's challenging climate conditions, and the ability to respond to facility emergencies as needed.

Essential Job Functions

Maintenance and Repairs

● Perform routine maintenance tasks including plumbing, electrical, carpentry, and HVAC work within skill level

● Conduct regular inspections of building systems, equipment, and facilities to identify maintenance needs

● Execute preventive maintenance programs and schedules as directed by the Property Manager

● Troubleshoot and repair facility systems and equipment, coordinating with the Property Manager when specialized contractors are needed

● Maintain detailed records of maintenance activities, repairs, and equipment conditions

● Assist in planning and preparing for larger renovation and improvement projects

Grounds and Seasonal Maintenance

● Maintain grounds including landscaping, snow removal, and seasonal cleanup activities

● Operate and maintain outdoor equipment, tools, and vehicles as needed

● Prepare facilities for seasonal changes and weather-related challenges

● Maintain outdoor facilities including walkways, recreational areas, and utility access points

● Ensure safe access to all buildings and areas year-round

Equipment and Systems Manager

● Operate and maintain facility equipment including generators, heating systems, water systems, and other mechanical equipment

● Learn and maintain proficiency with Center-specific equipment and systems as trained

● Monitor utility systems and report issues or concerns to the Property Manager

● Maintain inventory of tools, supplies, and replacement parts

● Ensure all equipment is properly stored, secured, and maintained according to manufacturer specifications

Emergency Response Support

● Serve as backup emergency responder for facility-related incidents when the Property Manager is unavailable

● Respond to urgent maintenance issues including system failures, weather damage, and safety hazards

● Assist the Property Manager with emergency protocols and procedures

● Maintain communication with the Property Manager regarding facility status and emergency situations

● Support evacuation or emergency preparedness activities as needed

Administrative Support

● Coordinate with the Property Manager on maintenance schedules, project planning, and resource needs

● Assist with contractor coordination and project supervision as directed

● Maintain accurate documentation of work completed, time spent, and materials used

● Support the Property Manager with facility inspections and assessments

● Participate in staff meetings and training as required

Non-Essential Job Functions

● Additional or shifted responsibilities to be identified as the organization evolves.

Independent Decision-Making

Make routine maintenance and repair decisions within established guidelines. Escalate complex issues, safety concerns, or decisions requiring significant resources to the Property Manager.

Supervision Received and Exercised

This position reports directly to the Property Manager. This position does not supervise other staff but may coordinate with contractors and vendors as directed.

Location

This position requires living on-site at the Nankat Liberation Center. Occasional travel to Fairbanks or other Alaska locations may be required for supplies, training, or organizational meetings.

Work Environment and Demands of the Role

Native Movement is committed to providing reasonable accommodations, according to the applicable state and federal laws, to all individuals with qualified physical and mental disabilities.

The Nankat Liberation Center environment supports Native communities and visitors in a remote Alaska setting. This position requires working in both indoor and outdoor environments in all weather conditions, including extreme cold, snow, and seasonal variations. Work involves physical labor, use of tools and equipment, and potential exposure to various maintenance materials and conditions.

The physical demands of this position require the ability to lift up to 50 pounds regularly, work in confined spaces, climb ladders, navigate uneven terrain, and perform manual labor for extended periods. Must be able to work in various positions including standing, kneeling, bending, and overhead reaching. Additionally, the employee must be able to follow safety protocols, communicate effectively about technical issues, and respond quickly to emergency situations.

Benefits Information

Native Movement provides greater than average Paid Time Off (PTO), including “Harvest” and “Ceremony/Spiritual” leave and ample paid holidays. Additionally, Native Movement offers paid “wellness” time and is committed to the sustainability of our team’s health and wellbeing.  Other employee benefits include medical, dental and vision for employee and dependents, Life/ Accidental Death & Dismemberment insurance, Retirement benefits. Professional development opportunities as identified by the Facilities Caretaker and the Property Manager.

Native Movement is committed to providing an employment environment which is welcoming of all people and free from discrimination and harassment. Native Movement work and community spaces are generally matriarchal, welcoming, and informal. This live-in position offers unique flexibility while requiring availability for facility needs. Native Movement is an at-will employer.

Job qualifications:

● Authentic understanding of Indigenous values, history, and the complexity and brilliance of contemporary Native communities

● Cultural competency to work with a diverse range of people, especially Alaska Native and rural Alaskan communities

● High school diploma or equivalent; technical training or certification preferred

● Minimum 2-3 years experience in facilities maintenance, construction, or related trades

● Basic knowledge of electrical, plumbing, carpentry, and HVAC systems

● Experience with hand tools, power tools, and basic mechanical equipment

● Valid driver's license and ability to operate various vehicles and equipment

● Ability to work independently and follow detailed instructions

● Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail

● Physical ability to perform manual labor in challenging weather conditions

● Emergency response experience or willingness to learn emergency procedures

● Basic computer skills for documentation and communication

● Preferred qualifications:

• ○ Trade certifications in electrical, plumbing, HVAC, or carpentry

• ○ Experience with generator systems, well water systems, or off-grid utilities

• ○ Snow removal equipment operation experience

• ○ Alaska or cold climate maintenance experience

• ○ First Aid/CPR certification

• ○ Equipment maintenance and repair experience

Values-Based Qualifications

● Inclusive to all LGBTQIA2+ identities.

● Understanding and enthusiastic support of NM mission and vision.

● Able to analyze information and situations in order to identify root causes of injustices.

● Values-aligned with our guiding principles:

• ○ The Jemez Principles of Democratic Organizing

• ○ Defend the Sacred Principles

• ○ Just Transition Framework

● Practices self-awareness and demonstrates willingness to participate in mutual accountability.

● Displays humility, respectful inquiry and genuine curiosity, and a commitment to their continued growth.

Additional Job Information

This position requires regular on-Property presence as the live-in facilities technician of the Nankat Liberation Center. Emergency response availability is essential, as this role serves as backup support for facility-related incidents. Employees must also possess the following abilities:

● Ability to adhere to safety rules and other reasonable regulations pertaining to the position

● Ability to refrain from violence

● Ability to work in cooperation with other workers within the company

● Ability to work safely with tools, equipment, and maintenance materials