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Unit Helper Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Maintenance Helper A (Local 1) * Benefits are through Local 1 Union and the hourly pay for this ... Identify building and residential unit issues, rectify issues as directed by Building Engineer and ...

Maintenance Helper A (Local 1) * Benefits are through Local 1 Union and the hourly pay for this ... Identify building and residential unit issues, rectify issues as directed by Building Engineer and ...

Maintenance Helper A (Local 1) * Benefits are through Local 1 Union and the hourly pay for this ... Identify building and residential unit issues, rectify issues as directed by Building Engineer and ...

Union Helper A- 1001 S. State Full time Chicago, Illinois Apply Now Save Job Job saved ABOUT ... and unit availability. * 6-Week Paid Sabbatical after 10 years of service (and every 5 years ...

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Unit Helper information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$8

$20

$31

How much do unit helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for unit helper in Chicago, IL is $20.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.34 and $21.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a unit helper, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Unit Helper, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with hospital sanitation protocols, basic medical equipment, and inventory management systems is often required. Reliability, teamwork, and effective communication are important soft skills for supporting clinical staff and maintaining a safe environment. These skills ensure efficient unit operations, patient safety, and smooth workflow in healthcare settings.

What are the typical responsibilities of a unit helper in a hospital setting?

As a Unit Helper in a hospital, your daily tasks often include assisting nursing staff with non-clinical duties such as transporting patients, delivering supplies, maintaining clean environments, and supporting patient comfort. You may also help with stocking medical carts, restocking linens, and ensuring equipment is readily available. Collaboration with nurses, housekeeping, and other support staff is key to ensuring smooth operations and a positive patient experience. This role offers valuable exposure to healthcare workflows and can be a stepping stone to more advanced positions within the hospital.

What is the difference between Unit Helper vs Nursing Assistant?

AspectUnit HelperNursing Assistant
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma or GED; certification often required
Work EnvironmentHospitals, long-term care facilities, clinicsHospitals, nursing homes, long-term care facilities
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly used in healthcare settings for basic support rolesStandard role in patient care, often with more direct patient interaction
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for entry-level healthcare support rolesCompared for roles with more direct patient care responsibilities

The main difference between a Unit Helper and a Nursing Assistant lies in their responsibilities and required certifications. Unit Helpers typically perform basic support tasks without requiring formal certification, while Nursing Assistants have more direct patient care duties and often need certification. Both roles are essential in healthcare settings, but Nursing Assistants usually have a broader scope of practice and more patient interaction.

What is a unit helper?

Unit Helpers are support staff in healthcare facilities who assist nurses and other medical personnel with non-clinical tasks. Their duties typically include transporting patients, delivering supplies, stocking equipment, and maintaining cleanliness in patient care areas. While they do not provide direct medical care, Unit Helpers play a vital role in ensuring the smooth operation of hospital units. Their support allows clinical staff to focus on patient care and improves the overall efficiency of healthcare services.
What are the most commonly searched types of Unit jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Unit jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What job categories do people searching Unit Helper jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Unit Helper jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Unit Helper jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Unit Helper job openings:
Infographic showing various Unit Helper job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,411 per year, or $20.4 per hour.

Maintenance Helper A - Local 1

Reside Living

Chicago, IL โ€ข On-site

$27.23/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 23 hours ago


Job description

Position Overview:

Reports To: Building Engineer

  • Union Position: Maintenance Helper A (Local 1)
  • Benefits are through Local 1 Union and the hourly pay for this position is $27.23
  • Schedule: Tuesday-Saturday 8 AM to 4:30 PM. Sundays and Mondays off.

Additional Perks:

  • Phone Stipend of $50 a month
  • Student Loan Repayment Program $100 a month towards your student loans
  • 25% Apartment Discount after 90 days of employment

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 

  • Identify building and residential unit issues, rectify issues as directed by Building Engineer and coordinate access/repairs with third party vendors as needed.
  • Maintain exterior of assigned property(ies) as needed, meeting seasonal needs (e.g. Operating snow removal machines, etc.).
  • Complete resident service requests within specified service level agreements (SLAs) and respond to after-hours calls (when scheduled to do so).
  • Monitor the cleanliness of properties and carry out janitorial services as needed, for instance, assisting with apartment turns.
  • Collaborate with Project Management personnel and other team members to allow access to property(ies) and retail spaces.
  • Schedule preventative maintenance (i.e. HVAC filter replacement, rod sewer lines, etc.) and proactively anticipate maintenance needs around the property(ies).
  • Collaborate with Building Engineer regularly on projects.
  • Assist in custodial work (e.g. sweeping, mopping, vacuuming, emptying trash, cleaning windows, etc.) and grounds work when necessary.
  • Maintain exterior of assigned property(ies) and performs appropriate seasonal tasks (e.g. snow removal).
  • Report any water infiltration or mold and treat with high priority, especially cases where excessive water infiltration and growth are found.
  • Provide exceptional customer service through stellar and regular interactions with residents.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS

  • Maintain open lines of communication with internal and external contacts for continuing operations and resolution of problems. Internal contacts include company personnel and residents.  External contacts include vendors, consulting engineers and contractors to ensure contracted services are maintained and performed within the guidelines of company standards.
  • Up-to-date knowledge on work-safety programs and education.
  • Assists Building Engineer in his/her duties.
  • Demonstrates attention to detail, pride in quality of work, and a positive attitude.
  • Possesses ability to work both independently and as part of a team of professionals.
  • Dresses in clean, pressed uniform.
  • Valid driver's license and vehicle required for this position.
  • Required to own and maintain personal smartphone (iPhone or Android) for using our mobile app to perform and document the work performed. A stipend of $50 per month will be provided for use of a personal phone.

QUALIFICATIONS

  • High school education or equivalent.
  • EPA certified or willing to obtain certification within 90 days of hire.
  • Proficiency with computers and technological systems (Outlook, Microsoft Suite, etc.)
  • Minimum of one-year full-time maintenance experience or experience in related field.
  • Preferred knowledge of and experience repairing mechanical systems – plumbing, electric, HVAC, hot water heaters, etc.

WORK HOURS

  • 40 hours per week and overtime as needed. Must have availability to work a flexible schedule any day of the week and on-call for emergencies.

EQUIPMENT/MACHINERY/TOOLS

An employee in this position must be knowledgeable and skilled in the safe use and maintenance of the following:

  • Hand tools: Various wrenches, hammer, grips, saws, sledgehammer, snips, post hole diggers etc.
  • Power tools: Wrenches, grinders, sanders, drills, saws, key machines, etc.
  • User-moved aids: Wheelbarrows, dollies, hand tricks, buckets, hoist, jacks, step ladders, etc.
  • Required to own and maintain personal smartphone (iphone or android) for using our mobile app to perform and document the work performed.

MECHANICAL EQUIPMENT

  • Motors, pumps, compressors, blowers, electric and hand power augers, etc.
  • Measuring devices, calipers, voltmeters, ohmmeters, testing meters, PH tests, gauges, etc.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Constant need (66% to 100% of the time) to be on feet.
  • Finger Dexterity: Handle tools and equipment, perform routine maintenance / repairs. Complete work orders and inspections on mobile device, including typing or speaking notes.
  • Have a constant need (66% to 100% of the time) to perform the following physical activities:
  • Bend/Stoop/Squat/Kneel: Perform routine maintenance/repairs, pick up tools and needed equipment.
  • Climb Stairs: Ability to climb 2 or 3 flights of stairs in order to handle service requests and make-ready needs.
  • Push or Pull: Move equipment, appliances, open and close doors, etc.
  • Reach Above  Shoulder: Perform routine maintenance/repairs, stock and remove equipment, parts, etc.
  • Climb Ladders: Perform routine maintenance/repairs.
  • Grasp/Grip/Turning: Handle tools and equipment, perform routine maintenance/repairs.
  • Finger Dexterity: Handle tools and equipment, perform routine maintenance/repairs.
  • Constant need (66% to 100% of the time) to perform the following physical activities:
  • Writing: Inventory maintenance, requisition requests, required maintenance reports.
  • Lifting/carrying (supplies, replacement parts, ladders, etc.)

Over 150 lbs.

Rare need (less than 1% of the time)

75 – 150 lbs.

Occasional need (1% to 33% of the time)

25 75 lbs.

Frequent need (33% to 66% of the time)

1-25 lbs.

Constant need (66% to 100% of the time)


NOTE: Lifting and carrying of weights exceeding 50 lbs. is often accomplished with assistance from one or more persons. Examples of heavy items lifted include washer, dryers, refrigerators, A/C units, abandoned furniture, etc.

VISIONREQUIREMENTS

  • Constant need (66% to 100% of the time) to document maintenance and complete forms, review manuals and operating instructions, read cautionary labels, respond to written instruction from staff and residents. Constant need to see small detail when performing routine maintenance duties.
  • Frequent need (33% to 60% of the time) to see things clearly beyond arm's reach (oversee assistants, observe problems throughout the property).
  • Constant need to read and input data on a mobile device.

HEARING REQUIREMENTS

  • Constant need (66% to 100% of the time) to communicate with assistants, resident staff, vendors and residents. Must use listening skills to diagnose needed repairs, etc.

SPEAKING REQUIREMENTS

  • Constant need (66% to 100% of the time) to verbally communicate with assistants, resident staff, vendors and residents.

DRIVING/TRAVELING REQUIREMENTS

  • Emergency calls may occasionally require expedient travel to assigned property at moment's notice.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT

  • Indoors (66% to 100% of the lime); frequently outdoors (33% to 66% of the time), all conditions, often for extended periods.
  • Occasional exposure (1% to 33% of time) to paint fumes, solvents, adhesives, etc. Example: Vacant unit turn over.
  • Frequent need (33% to 66% of the time) to work in awkward and confining positions.

REASONING DEVELOPMENT

  • Must be able to apply principles of logical thinking to define problems, collect pertinent data, establish facts, draw valid conclusions and initiate appropriate course of action. Must effectively convey ideas, images and goals to diverse group of personalities.

Reside Living is committed to conducting all employment practices for employees at all levels without regard to race, creed, genetic characteristics, gender, color, religion, sex, national origin or ancestry, age, mental or physical disability, marital status, sexual orientation, veteran/military status, gender identity/status, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, or any other characteristic protected by applicable state, federal or local laws, except where a bona fide occupational requirement exists.