Garage Officer

Minerva Recruitment; Harlow; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A recruitment agency is seeking a Garage Officer for Harlow Council to manage garage and hardstanding services. The successful candidate will investigate management issues, allocate resources effectively, and ensure tenant satisfaction. This role requires strong communication and customer service skills, as well as knowledge of housing management. The position offers competitive pay and an initial six-month contract with potential for extension.

Benefits

Competitive pay rates

Initial 6-month contract with potential extension

Varied, community-facing role

Qualifications

• Experience in a frontline, customer-facing role within a housing or public service environment.
• Basic understanding of Housing Management and current housing legislation.
• Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle.

Responsibilities

• Investigate and resolve management issues related to garages and parking areas.
• Proactively allocate garages and hardstandings to maximise stock utilisation.
• Conduct weekly checks of void garages and hardstandings against the waiting list.

Skills

Communication skills

Customer service experience

Time management

Microsoft Office proficiency

Analytical skills

Job description

Garage Officer

Location: Harlow

Contract Type: Full-Time, Temporary

Hours: 37.5 hours per week

Contract Length: 6 months (with potential to extend)

Pay Rate: £16.81 PAYE

Working Arrangement: Site-based role

Minerva Recruitment is recruiting on behalf of Harlow Council for a Garage Officer to join their Area Housing Team on a temporary basis for an initial six‑month contract, with the possibility of extension.

This role requires the successful candidate to be based on site and play a key part in delivering a high‑quality, customer‑focused garage and hardstanding management service.

About the Role

Harlow Council is committed to delivering excellent customer care and value‑for‑money housing services. As a Garage Officer, you will be responsible for managing a designated ward‑based patch, acting as the main point of contact for residents regarding garage and hardstanding services. You will ensure tenant satisfaction while maximising the use and performance of the Council's garage and hardstanding stock.

You will work closely with colleagues across Estate and Tenancy Management, contributing to the effective delivery of the Council's Garage and Hardstanding Strategy.

Key Responsibilities

• Investigate and resolve management issues relating to garages and parking areas
• Proactively allocate garages and hardstandings to maximise stock utilisation
• Manage the allocation and voiding process in line with Council policies
• Conduct weekly checks of void garages and hardstandings against the waiting list
• Arrange and follow up on repairs to empty garages and parking areas
• Carry out a minimum of two inspections per year of all garage blocks and hardstand areas
• Identify, report, and help resolve health & safety, environmental, and anti‑social behaviour issues
• Maintain accurate, up‑to‑date written and electronic records for all cases and incidents
• Support the delivery of the Garage Strategy and assist with service improvements
• Take a proactive approach to tackling former tenant debt and other housing‑related arrears
• Recommend write‑offs or credits in line with financial regulations
• Maintain required statistical and performance data
• Support team members during periods of absence and assist with training new staff

About You

The successful candidate will have:

• Experience in a frontline, customer‑facing role within a housing or public service environment
• A basic understanding of Housing Management and current housing legislation
• Strong communication skills and the ability to engage with a wide range of stakeholders
• The ability to prioritise workloads, multitask, and work to tight deadlines
• Good judgement, knowing when to resolve issues independently and when to escape
• Competency in Microsoft Office, with strong letter and report writing skills
• The ability to analyse written and numerical information and draw sound conclusions
• A full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle (or other suitable means of transport)
• Flexibility to work evenings and varied hours when required, including residents' meetings

Why Apply?

• Opportunity to work within a respected local authority
• Competitive pay rates
• Initial 6‑month contract with potential extension
• Varied, community‑facing role with responsibility and autonomy

To apply or for more information, please contact Minerva Recruitment. We look forward to supporting your application.