Multi-Skilled Tradesperson/General Builder

BIAZA (British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums); England; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading wildlife sanctuary in England seeks a Multi-Skilled Tradesperson/General Builder. The role involves a variety of construction and maintenance tasks to ensure facilities are safe and functional. Ideal candidates should have at least 3 years of experience in multiple trades, strong problem-solving skills, and a full UK driving license. This permanent, full-time position offers a unique working environment with comprehensive benefits.

Benefits

28 days’ paid annual leave

Full staff uniform provided

Employee Assistance Programme

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years’ experience in construction, general building, or multi-trade roles.
• Skilled in at least two trades: carpentry, plumbing, drainage, etc.
• Experienced and licensed to operate plant and machinery.

Responsibilities

• Undertake general building work, including bricklaying, rendering, roofing.
• Maintaining and improving animal enclosures and facilities.
• Assisting with new construction projects and renovations.

Skills

Carpentry

Plumbing

Bricklaying

Problem-solving

Tools

Forklifts

Telehandlers

Digger

Job description

Multi-Skilled Tradesperson/General Builder

The Big Cat Sanctuary

Kent Closing date for applications is: 14th Dec 2025

How often do you have the chance to work surrounded by some of the world’s most beautiful, endangered animals?

The Big Cat Sanctuary is looking for an experienced and skilled Multi‑Skilled Tradesperson/General Builder to join our team. This is a fantastic opportunity to apply your trade skills in a truly unique environment while contributing to the smooth operation and development of our Sanctuary. If you have a strong background in construction, maintenance, and general building work, and want to be part of something special, read on…

About the Role:

The successful candidate will take on a wide range of building and maintenance tasks across our large, diverse site. You will work on new builds, repairs, refurbishments, and general site maintenance, ensuring our facilities remain safe, functional, and well‑presented. The role will suit a hands‑on, adaptable, and skilled individual who takes pride in their work and enjoys problem‑solving.

Key Responsibilities:

• Undertake general building work, including bricklaying, rendering, plastering, roofing, groundworks, carpentry, plumbing, drainage and minor electrical works, as required
• Maintaining and improving animal enclosures, visitor areas, and staff facilities
• Assisting with new construction projects, renovations, and installations
• Diagnosing and resolving maintenance issues efficiently
• Ensuring all work complies with Health & Safety regulations

Requirements:

• Minimum 3 years’ experience in construction, general building, or multi‑trade roles
• Skilled in at least two of the following: carpentry, plumbing, drainage, bricklaying, roofing, groundworks, plastering, welding, fabrication or electrical work - trade qualifications would be advantageous
• Experienced and licensed to operate plant and machinery (e.g. forklifts, telehandlers, diggers, dumpers, chainsaws, MEWPs etc with CPCS / NPTC/ NPORS / IPAF certification would be a bonus)
• Self‑motivated with excellent problem‑solving skills
• Strong attention to detail and ability to work independently or as part of a team
• Reliable, hardworking, and adaptable to a variety of tasks
• Able to achieve PPM schedules within agreed timescales
• Knowledge of Risk Assessments & Safe Systems of Work
• Full UK driving licence and access to own vehicle (The Big Cat Sanctuary is not accessible by public transport)
• Existing 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 Mon-Fri, 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