Summary
This job involves hands-on maintenance and construction work to keep public health buildings safe and functional, including repairing walls, installing doors, fixing plumbing, and operating equipment like tractors for grounds care across South Carolina.
It also requires joining emergency response teams when needed and working alone or with others.
A good fit would be someone reliable and skilled in trades like carpentry, who can solve problems quickly and handle physical tasks without much supervision.
Full Job Description

Careers at DPH: Work that makes a difference!
Pursuing Excellence, Inspiring Innovation, Promoting Teamwork, Embracing Service, and Advancing Equity
The South Carolina Department of Public Health (SC DPH) is seeking a skilled and self-motivated General Maintenance Technician III to perform a wide range of construction, maintenance, and equipment operation tasks across multiple facilities statewide. This role is critical to ensuring the safety, functionality, and upkeep of DPH-owned and occupied buildings. The ideal candidate will bring expertise in multi-trade construction, operate heavy equipment with precision, and demonstrate strong problem-solving skills while working independently or as part of a team.
Job duties will include, but are not limited to:
General Construction
- Construct, repair, and finish walls and ceilings (hard and suspended).
- Install windows, doors, and frames.
- Perform plumbing repairs and minor electrical work.
- Conduct small renovations to DPH-owned or occupied buildings as needed.
Equipment Operation- Operate mid-sized tractors, loader/backhoe, and other grounds maintenance equipment.
- Perform preventative maintenance on grounds equipment.
- Maintain grounds, roads, trees, and shrubs independently or with other staff
Self-Motivation & Teamwork- Work independently or collaboratively with other tradesmen.
- Apply sound judgment and initiative in job-related decisions.
Other Duties as Assigned- Serve as part of the DPH Emergency Response team as needed.
Requirements
State Minimum: High school diploma and trades experience related to the area of employment. Relevant experience may be substituted for the required diploma on a year-for-year basis for basis.
Institutions of Higher Learning must be recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.Agency Minimum:A high school diploma and trade experience that is directly related to the area of employment. A valid Driver’s License; eight (8) years of carpentry experience; ability to lift 50 pounds; ability to safely and successfully climb and descend ladders; knowledge of safety practices relevant to the area of building maintenance; thorough knowledge of operating various hand and power tools. This role requires sound judgment, discretion, attention to detail, resourcefulness, and self-direction.
Applicants indicating college credit or degree(s) on the application may upload an unofficial copy of the transcript as an attachment to the application. Please note that the agency will require an official, certified copy of the transcript or diploma prior to hiring.
Qualifications
The ideal candidate will have demonstrated experience in problem-solving and managing complex situations to achieve effective resolutions, along with the ability to organize and prioritize multiple tasks while handling a high-volume workload. Strong interpersonal and communication skills are essential, as well as the ability to establish and maintain collaborative working relationships with stakeholders, including program personnel, departmental staff, and other state-level partners. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, Adobe products, and familiarity with SCEIS or similar SAP systems is preferred. Candidates should possess a solid understanding of business management principles, policies, and practices, and be able to interpret and carry out complex oral and written instructions. The ability to present information professionally, both in writing and verbally, and to develop, interpret, and apply policies and procedures is critical.
Additional Information
EEO: The Department of Public Health is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions including, but not limited, to lactation), national origin, age (40 or older), disability, or genetic information.
REASONABLE ACCOMMODATION: Applicants needing accommodation for medical reasons or a sincerely held religious belief may submit a request for accommodation. A reasonable accommodation may be granted if it doesn't impose an undue hardship or pose a direct threat to the health and safety of others.
STATE DISASTER PLAN: In accordance with the State's Disaster Plan, which includes hazardous weather, Department of Public Health employees may be required to work in times of an emergency or disaster.
DRIVING RECORD: If this position requires the applicant to possess a valid driver's license to operate a state vehicle or personal vehicle, any applicant being considered in the final stages of selection for the position will be required to provide a certified copy of a 10-year driving record.
The South Carolina Department of Public Health offers an exceptional benefits package for FTE positions that includes:
- 15 days Annual (Vacation) Leave per year
- 15 days Sick Leave per year
- 13 Paid Holidays
- Paid Parental Leave
- Health, dental, vision, long-term disability, and life insurance for employees, spouse, and children. Click here for additional information.
- S.C. Deferred Compensation Program available (S.C. Deferred Compensation)
- Retirement benefit choices *
*Enrollment in one of the listed plans is required for all FTE employees; please refer to the contribution section of hyperlinked retirement sites for the current contribution rate of gross pay.
HYBRID WORK: The option to work partially remote or adjusted work hours may be available after 12 months of employment for approved positions.