Maintenance Operative

Catholic Independent Schools; Reading; On-site; GBP 32,000 - 34,000; Full time

Job summary

The Oratory Schools invites applications for a Maintenance Operative to join our Estates Team. You will install, maintain and repair systems across the school estate, supporting safe, efficient and compliant operations on a busy boarding campus.

Electrical experience is desired but not essential; you will perform routine checks, supervise external contractors and ensure adherence to safety standards while providing high-standard service to staff, pupils and visitors.

Qualifications

• Electrical experience is desirable but not essential.
• Excellent technical expertise and problem solving capability.
• Strong organisational skills and customer service focus.

Responsibilities

• Carry out routine checks as assigned by Estates Manager.
• Escort and oversee external contractors on site.
• Install, maintain and repair systems and equipment.
• Perform periodic testing and inspection of electrical systems per regulations.
• Ensure safety codes and regulations are followed at all times.
• Communicate effectively with staff to provide good service.
• Use authorised plant and equipment with due care.
• Ensure compliance with Health & Safety legislation and best practices.
• Undertake other duties as required by the line manager.

Skills

Electrical experience

Organisational skills

Problem solving

Customer service

Job description

THE DEPARTMENT

The Estates Department is responsible for the management, maintenance and development of the school’s extensive estate, ensuring that the campus remains safe, secure, compliant and fit for purpose for pupils, staff and visitors.

As a busy boarding school operating throughout the academic year, the department supports a wide range of facilities, including boarding houses, teaching spaces, sports facilities. The team is led by the Estates Manager, who has overall responsibility for the strategic and operational management of the estate, and is supported by an Estates Co-Ordinator and professional maintenance staff.

THE ROLE

We are seeking a qualified and experienced Maintenance Operative to join our Maintenance Team. The successful candidate will be responsible for the installation, maintenance and repair of various systems and equipment across the School estate, while also supporting the wider maintenance function to ensure the safe, efficient and effective operation of our boarding school campus. Electrical experience is desired but not essential.

This is a varied and rewarding role requiring an individual with excellent technical expertise, strong organisational skills and a proactive approach to problem solving. You will be capable of managing multiple priorities, working collaboratively with colleagues and contractors, and providing a high standard of customer service to staff, pupils, parents and visitors.

Working within a vibrant school community, you will play an important role in maintaining a safe, welcoming and well-presented environment that supports both the School's educational and boarding provision. This is an excellent opportunity for a motivated individual who enjoys being part of a collaborative team and making a positive contribution to the day-to-day life of a thriving independent boarding school.

ACCOUNTABLE TO

The Estates Manager

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Carry out routine checks as assigned by Estates Manager.
• Escorting and overseeing external contractors on site.
• Install, maintain, and repair of systems and equipment.
• Perform periodic testing and inspection of electrical systems in compliance with current regulations.
• Ensure compliance with safety codes and regulations at all times, work in a safe manner in line with the contents of the Workshop Safety Manual.
• Communicate effectively with staff to provide excellent customer service
• Use authorised plant and equipment provided with due care and attention.
• Ensuring compliance of current Health & Safety legislation and ensure that all work complies with all legal and statutory regulations along with best practice.
• Any other duty as required by the line manager appropriate to the post.

This job description outlines the main responsibilities of the role. It is not exhaustive. The postholder may be required to undertake other reasonable duties commensurate with the seniority of the role and the needs of the School.

SALARY

Range (DOE): £32,000 to £34,000 per annum HOURS Monday to Friday – 40 hours a week, all year round.

SAFEGUARDING AND COMPLIANCE

The School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. The following duties will be deemed to be included in the duties which you may be required to perform:

Uphold and implement the School’s safeguarding policies and procedures.

Promote a culture of vigilance and pupil welfare.

Report any safeguarding concerns promptly in line with School procedures.

The Oratory Schools Association Registered Charity No 309112 is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, and applicants must be willing to undergo checks with past employers, online and the Disclosure and Barring Service. This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the amendments to the Exception Order 1975, 213, 2020.