Maintenance assistants keep a facility clean, tidy, and well-maintained. You find maintenance assistants in nearly all industries--from large corporations to small retirement homes. Maintenance assistants not only need to clean surfaces, equipment, and floors, they also need to be able to fix minor plumbing, electrical, or carpentry issues. Experience in cleaning buildings and other handyman skills are essential qualifications for this position, though most companies also provide on-the-job training.