Facilities Maintenance Assistant

BIAZA (British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums); England; On-site; GBP 20,000 - 25,000; Full time

Job summary

A conservation organization in the UK is looking for a Facilities Maintenance Assistant to support the upkeep of their sanctuary. The role involves general maintenance, repairing facilities, and ensuring high safety standards. Successful candidates will have prior maintenance experience, a driving license, and the right to work in the UK. Benefits include full-time hours, annual leave, and employee assistance programs.

Benefits

28 days’ paid annual leave

Full staff uniform provided

Employee Assistance Programme

Qualifications

• Previous experience in general maintenance or building work is essential.
• Broad understanding of building services, tools, and systems.
• Confident working alone or within a team and responding to service calls.

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.

Skills

General maintenance experience

Problem-solving skills

Excellent communication

Education

Trade qualifications

Tools

Hand tools

Power tools

Light machinery

Job description

The Big Cat Sanctuary

Closing date for applications is: 14th Dec 2025

Ever dreamed of working in a truly unique environment, surrounded by some of the world’s most endangered animals?

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 (BIAZA is not accessible by public transport)
• Existing right to Work in the UK (British Citizen, ILR, 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)
• 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

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