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4639 Sawmill Creek Rd
Sitka, AK, 99835
United States

907-747-3550

Fortress Of The Bear an educational bear rescue center located in Sitka, Alaska. We bring orphaned bears from all over the state of Alaska and find homes for them in zoos and sanctuaries internationally.  We currently have 8 resident orphaned bears in 3 separate enclosures.  These enclosures mimic the natural settings that they would normally be found.  Visitors view from above in a covered area and have the opportunity to observe and photographic their continuous antics.

Work With Us!

Would you like to join the Fortress of the Bear team? Check this page for our latest job opportunities!

Maintenance Manager - posted 06/15/2026

Reports to: Executive Director

Employment type: Full-Time, Year-Round

Location: Sitka, Alaska (on-site)

Compensation: $25.00 - $30.00

Benefits: Health Reimbursement Plan, PTO, Sick Leave, Paid Holidays

Position Summary:

The Maintenance Manager is responsible for the safe, efficient, and well-maintained operation of all Fortress of the Bear facilities. This hands-on role oversees preventive and corrective maintenance of animal habitats, buildings, visitor infrastructure, and mechanical systems. The manager coordinates internal maintenance staff, contractors, and volunteers, ensuring all work meets safety codes and the sanctuary’s animal welfare standards.

Key Responsibilities:

Animal Habitat Maintenance

  • Works closely with the Bear Curator to prioritize and coordinate any maintenance, which includes inspecting, repairing and maintaining all bear enclosures, fencing, gates, locks and perimeter security systems to ensure structural integrity and bear safety.

  • Maintain enrichment structures, pools, water features, and drainage systems within habitats.

  • Coordinate with bear care staff to schedule maintenance and construction activities with minimal disruption to resident bears.

  • Respond promptly to habitat emergencies, including fence breaches, flooding or equipment failure.

Facilities & Building Maintenance

  • Manage preventive maintenance schedules for all buildings, including the visitor center, staff house, storage facilities, and utility infrastructure.

  • Perform and oversee repairs to plumbing, electrical, HVAC, roofing, carpentry, and general building systems.

  • Maintain accurate records of maintenance work orders, equipment service logs, and warranties.

  • Purchase and manage inventory of maintenance supplies, parts, and equipment.

  • Ensure compliance with local building codes, fire codes, and OSHA standards.

Visitor Infrastructure

  • Maintain all visitor-facing areas including walkways, viewing platforms, signage, restrooms, parking areas, and entryways.

  • Ensure ADA accessibility standards are met and maintained throughout visitor areas.

  • Perform seasonal preparations including snow and ice removal, drainage management, and surface upkeep.

  • Coordinate with the visitor services team to minimize maintenance impact during peak operating hours.

  • Service and winterize all facilities including outside bathrooms, food prep area, and all outside water sources.

  • Be available for snow and ice removal in the winter season.

Team Leadership & Safety

  • Supervise, train, and schedule maintenance staff and facilities volunteers.

  • Foster a culture of safety by leading regular safety briefings and enforcing proper use of PPE and equipment.

  • Serve as the primary point of contact for facility emergencies outside normal business hours, including on-call rotation.

  • Ensure required safety certifications and compliance items are current, including smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and similar life-safety equipment.

Qualifications & Skills:

Required:

  • Must have a high school diploma or GED.

  • Minimum 5 years of experience in facilities maintenance, construction or a closely related trade.

  • Demonstrate experience supervising staff and coordinating contractors.

  • Proficiency with hand tools, power tools and light equipment operation.

  • Broad working knowledge of building systems: plumbing, electrical, carpentry, HVAC and general mechanical repair.

  • Ability to read and interpret construction drawings, blueprints and technical manuals.

  • Strong organizational skills and experience purchasing supplies and equipment.

  • Valid Alaska driver’s license (or ability to maintain) and clean driving record.

  • Commitment to bear welfare and the sanctuary’s conservation and educational mission.

  • Comfortable with email, Google Sheets, MS Word and Zoom.

Working Conditions:

  • This is a full-time, on-site position based in Sitka, Alaska.

  • The role requires frequent physical activity, including lifting up to 75lbs, climbing, kneeling and sustained outdoor work.

  • Ability to work outdoors year-round in Southeast Alaska’s climate, including rain, snow and cold temperatures is a must.

  • Some evening, weekend and on-call availability is required, particularly during the winter season (November - April) and in response to facility emergencies.

How to Apply:

Submit a resume, cover letter and three contactable professional references to:

Jay Stilwell, Executive Director: jay@fortressofthebear.org

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Fortress of the Bear is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applicants of all backgrounds.

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