Maintenance helper/ 399 Apprentice

Location: Westin Michigan Avenue - Chicago

Department: Engineer

Position: Maintenance Helper-Apprentice

Employment Type: Full-Time

Reports To: Director of Engineering

*You must be an existing Local 399 member

Vinayaka Hospitality was founded in 2008 on a foundation of innovation, intelligence, and compassion. Our team takes pride in combining a passion for hospitality with practical hotel management. By collaborating with renowned brands like Hilton, Marriott, and Hyatt, we efficiently manage eleven properties across diverse locations. Committed to ongoing growth, we actively seek opportunities and are dedicated to helping both our team and hotels thrive. We remain responsive and proactive in our strategies for sales, marketing, and revenue, ensuring swift adaptability to market changes. Beyond Management, we cultivate strong partnerships with major industry players, highlighting our dedication to success in the ever-evolving world of hospitality

Join the team at The Westin Michigan Avenue Chicago — a landmark downtown hotel where elevated comfort meets iconic luxury. At The Westin, you’ll be part of a culture that champions well-being, innovation, and extraordinary experiences for both guests and associates. Nestled on Chicago’s Magnificent Mile, you will work in a dynamic setting offering inspiring views, modern amenities and a commitment to “doing well, and doing good.” If you are passionate about hospitality and ready to elevate your career in a role where your purpose matters, let’s create unforgettable moments together.

Maintenance Helper – Engineering (Local 399 Apprentice)

We are seeking a motivated and reliable Maintenance Helper to join our hotel’s Engineering team as a Local 399 Engineering Apprentice. In this role, you will support daily maintenance operations by performing basic plumbing, electrical, and HVAC repairs.

Primary responsibilities include efficiently completing Room Preventive Maintenance (RPM) tasks within guest rooms and responding to hotel engineering service calls as needed. Service calls will involve both guest-facing and back-of-house requests, requiring timely response and adherence to all Marriott Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). Delivering excellent service while interacting professionally with guests and associates is essential. Mastery of RPM tasks and service calls is a key expectation of this position.

In accordance with Illinois law, compensation for this position is established by the collective bargaining agreement with IUOE Local 399.

Pay Rate:
$18.25 per hour (based on classification)

All employees in this classification are paid in accordance with the negotiated wage scale under the collective bargaining agreement, which includes scheduled increases over the term of the agreement.

Overtime and premium pay are provided in accordance with the agreement, including:

• Time and one-half for hours worked over 8 in a day or 40 in a week
• Premium pay for consecutive days worked and holidays 

Benefits

Employees are eligible for benefits provided under the IUOE Local 399 collective bargaining agreement, including:

Health & Welfare

• Medical coverage through the Local 399 Health & Welfare Fund
• Employer contributions provided on a monthly basis
• Coverage begins on the first of the month following hire 

Retirement

• Employer-paid  contributions to the IUOE Central Pension Fund
• Contributions begin at  the start of employment 

Paid Time Off

• Paid Holidays (including major recognized holidays)
• Paid Personal Time: 40 hours annually, with carryover provisions 
• Vacation: 
  • 2 weeks after 1 year
  • 3 weeks after 7 years
  • 4 weeks after 15 years
  • 5 weeks after 20 years 

Additional Benefits

• Employer contributions to training and education fund
• Optional participation in 401(k) plan (no employer match) 

Additional Information

• This position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement with IUOE Local 399
• Union membership is required in accordance with the agreement
• Wages, scheduling, overtime, and working conditions are governed by the collective bargaining      agreement

Key Responsibilities:

• Perform basic maintenance tasks including plumbing, electrical, and HVAC repairs
• Complete preventive maintenance (RPMs) in guest rooms with accuracy and efficiency
• Respond promptly to guest and internal engineering service requests
• Follow all company, safety, and security policies and procedures
• Report maintenance issues, safety hazards, accidents, or injuries immediately
• Maintain a clean, professional appearance and uphold company standards
• Protect company assets and maintain confidentiality of proprietary information
• Provide courteous, professional service by anticipating and addressing guest needs including assisting individuals with disabilities
• Communicate clearly and professionally with guests and team members
• Build and maintain positive working relationships across departments
• Ensure adherence to quality standards and operational expectations

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to reach overhead and below the knees, including bending, twisting, pulling, and stooping.
• Visually inspect tools, equipment, or machinery
• Move, lift, carry, push, and pull objects up to 50 pounds independently
• Assist with moving objects over 100 pounds (e.g., A/C units, televisions, furniture)
• Navigate stairs, ramps, and ladders safely
• Grasp, turn, and handle objects of varying sizes and weights

Additional Duties:

• Complete all required safety training and certifications
• Perform other reasonable job duties as assigned by supervisors

Availability

This company operates seven days a week, 24 hours a day. It should be understood that business needs determine your schedule and the number of hours that you will work.