Facilities Maintenance Assistant

BIAZA (British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums); England; On-site; GBP 28,000; Full time

Job description

The Big Cat Sanctuary

Kent

Closing date for applications is: 30th Apr 2025

Salary: Starting salary from £27,040 PA dependent on skills and experience

The Big Cat Sanctuary is looking for a dedicated Facilities Maintenance Assistant to join our team. This is a fantastic opportunity to contribute your skills to a diverse and rewarding role, supporting the smooth day-to-day operation of our sanctuary. If you enjoy hands-on work, take pride in maintaining high standards, and are looking to make a meaningful impact, we’d love to hear from you.

About the Role:

As a Facilities Maintenance Assistant, you’ll be responsible for general building and site maintenance across our varied and exciting grounds. From preventative maintenance and reactive repairs to supporting specialist contractors and departments, your work will help keep our site safe, efficient, and well-presented.

Key Responsibilities:

• Support the maintenance and safety of buildings, enclosures, and facilities
• Respond to and complete reactive maintenance tasks across the site
• Carry out basic plumbing, drainage, electrical, painting, and carpentry work
• Operate and maintain hand tools, power tools, and light machinery
• Assist with the upkeep and servicing of sanctuary vehicles
• Contribute to our preventative maintenance programme and ensure records are up to date
• Follow all Health & Safety, Environmental, and emergency procedures
• Work collaboratively with other departments as required (training provided)
• Maintain a professional, tidy appearance and wear full uniform/PPE

Requirements:

• Previous experience in general maintenance or building work is essential
• Broad understanding of building services, tools, and systems
• Trade qualifications and multi-skills are advantageous
• Confident working alone or within a team and responding to service calls
• Familiarity with Risk Assessments and Safe Systems of Work
• Ability to follow schedules and maintain quality of work
• Excellent communication and problem-solving skills
• Experience in a zoo, public attraction, or hospitality setting is beneficial but not essential
• Full UK driving licence and access to own vehicle (The Big Cat Sanctuary is not accessible by public transport)
• Right to Work in the UK (British Citizen, Indefinite Leave to Remain, EEA Citizen with Settled Status, or valid Visa/Work Permit)

What We Offer:

• Permanent, full-time position (40 hours per week, generally 08:00-17:00 worked Tues-Sat or Sun-Thurs)
• Starting salary from £27,040 PA dependent on skills and experience
• Full staff uniform provided
• 28 days’ paid annual leave (including Bank Holidays)
• Employee Assistance Programme, staff discounts, and staff events
• The opportunity to work in a unique and rewarding environment

Apply for this job:

To apply, please send your CV and a cover letter to [e-mail] stating “Facilities Maintenance Assistant Vacancy ” in the email title.

This vacancy will close as soon as sufficient applications have been received, therefore, you should submit your application as soon as possible.