At A Glance
- Job Title: Maintenance & Grounds Operative
- Location: Colchester, Essex
- Salary: £29-31k
- Job Type: Full-Time
- Start Date: As soon as possible
Please note – A full Clean UK Driving License and completing a Criminal Records check is required for you to be considered for this position.
Are you a skilled maintenance professional with a knack for problem-solving and a passion for creating safe, well-maintained environments? Do you thrive in a role where your practical expertise can make a real difference? Our client, a reputable educational institution, is seeking a dedicated Maintenance & Grounds Operative to join their team and ensure the school’s buildings and facilities are in top condition.
About Our Client:
Our client is a well-established school committed to providing a safe, secure, and conducive learning environment for pupils, staff, and visitors. They pride themselves on maintaining high standards across their estate, ensuring that all facilities are fit for purpose and well-maintained.
About the Role:
As a Maintenance & Grounds Operative, you will play a crucial role in the upkeep and maintenance of the school’s buildings and facilities. You will be responsible for identifying, diagnosing, and resolving a wide range of maintenance issues, carrying out repairs, and coordinating with specialist contractors when necessary. The role will also cover some grounds maintenance duties alongside the grounds team. Working as part of a small Estates Team, you will ensure that the school remains a safe and welcoming environment.
Key Responsibilities:
- Carry out planned and reactive maintenance across all school buildings and facilities.
- Diagnose faults and undertake repairs in carpentry, plumbing, decorating, and general maintenance.
- Perform minor refurbishment works and improvements.
- Conduct regular inspections and identify maintenance requirements.
- Assist with room set-ups, furniture moves, and preparations for school events.
- Support statutory compliance activities and maintain appropriate records.
- Participate in grounds maintenance tasks such as lawn care, planting, and general landscaping in collaboration with the grounds team.
- Ensure cleanliness and safety across the school premises.
- Manage inventory of maintenance supplies and place orders as needed.
- Coordinate and oversee external contractors for specialized work.
- Assist in snow and ice removal during the winter season.
- Monitor HVAC systems and arrange proactive maintenance.
- Arrange the setup and maintenance of school security systems.
Requirements:
Essential:
- Proven experience in building maintenance or facilities management.
- Practical skills in carpentry, plumbing, decorating, and general repairs.
- Ability to diagnose maintenance issues and identify repair solutions.
- Willingness to work outside usual core hours and be part of an on-call rota.
- Sound understanding of health and safety requirements.
- Full UK driving license.
- Physical capability to carry out manual tasks and handle equipment.
- Effective communication skills and the ability to work as part of a team.
Desirable:
- Recognised qualification in a relevant trade.
- Experience working within a school or similar multi-building estate.
- Knowledge of statutory building compliance.
- Experience managing external contractors.
- Experience with grounds maintenance and landscaping.
- Basic understanding of electrical systems and safety.
- Familiarity with using maintenance management software.
Why Join our Client?
- Join a supportive and collaborative Estates Team.
- Opportunity to make a real impact on the school’s environment.
- Competitive salary and benefits package.
- The school offers term-time free meals, various healthcare benefits.
- Flexible working hours with overtime opportunities.
- A role that offers variety and the chance to develop new skills.
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