Multiskilled Operative (Handyperson)

Kent County Council; Ashford; Hybrid; GBP 18,000 - 27,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Benefits package

Job summary

Kent County Council is seeking a reliable caretaker to oversee upkeep of properties across Kent, with emphasis on Ashford and Romney Marsh. The role ensures cleanliness, safety and a welcoming presence for staff, visitors and residents.

The post is a six-month fixed contract, Monday to Friday, 09:00 to 17:00, requiring a full UK driving licence. You will manage repairs, coordinate contractors, maintain supplies, and support health and safety across sites.

Qualifications

• Previous experience in caretaking or property management is preferred (≤140 chars).
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Reliable transportation and a valid driver’s license.
• Excellent communication and customer service skills.
• Ability to handle minor repairs and maintenance tasks.

Responsibilities

• Daily maintenance around the building, inside and out.
• Inspect heating, cooling, lighting and alarm systems for proper function.
• Support security by monitoring premises with onsite staff.
• Coordinate contractors and manage supplies for repairs and upkeep.
• Provide helpful, friendly service to staff, visitors and residents.
• Maintain tools and equipment in good order and properly inventoried.
• Clean communal areas with the cleaning team to keep hallways and stairwells tidy.
• Garden and landscape duties, including pruning and debris removal.
• Ensure walkways are clear of snow and ice for safety.
• Familiarize with emergency procedures and know locations of emergency equipment.
• Carry out health and safety checks and report hazards promptly.

Skills

Caretaking

Maintenance

Health & safety

Customer service

Driving license

Tools

Power tools

Cleaning equipment

Ladders & safety gear

Job description

We are seeking a reliable and trustworthy caretaker to oversee the upkeep and maintenance of Kent County Council properties throughout Kent, in particular, Ashford and Romney Marsh.

This role involves ensuring the property is clean, safe, and well-maintained, while also providing a friendly and approachable presence for staff, visitors and residents.

The post is offered on a six-month fixed contract Monday to Friday, 09:00 to 17:00.

Your duties will cover:

• Daily maintenance:

Undertake general repairs and maintenance around the building, inside and out. Including decorating, fixing minor repairs issues like leaky faucets, clogged drains, or loose hardware. To ensure a safe environment is maintained.

• Inspecting and maintaining systems:

Checking heating, cooling, lighting, and alarm systems to ensure they are functioning properly.

• Security:

In conjunction with onsite security, ensuring the property is secure, and monitoring for any issues.

• Property Management:

Reporting any maintenance needs to site Building Office, coordinating contractors, and managing supplies.

• Resident/Visitor Relations:

Providing a helpful and friendly service to staff, visitors and residents, addressing any concerns or inquiries.

Maintaining tools and equipment in good working order and ensuring they are properly inventoried.

• Cleaning communal areas:

In conjunction with onsite cleaning team, ensure common areas are in a clean and tidy state, including hallways, lobbies, and stairwells.

• Gardening and landscaping:

Maintaining flowerbeds and removing natural debris.

• Snow and ice removal:

Keeping walkways and entrances clear of snow and ice to ensure safety.

Familiarizing themselves with emergency procedures and knowing the location of shut-off valves and other emergency equipment.

• Health and safety:

Ensuring the property is safe and secure for staff, visitors and residents, including regular safety checks and inspections.

Requirements

• Previous experience in caretaking or property management is preferred.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Reliable transportation and a valid driver's license.
• Excellent communication and customer service skills.
• Ability to handle minor repairs and maintenance tasks.
• Competitive salary and benefits package
• Working in a supportive and friendly environment

This role is subject to holding a Full UK Driving Licence – The Council is committed to making reasonable adjustments so whilst this job requires the jobholder to drive your application will still be considered if you are unable to drive due to a disability.

This post is subject to an Enhanced Disclosure Application to the Disclosure and Barring Service.

Work that works for you and us - let's talk flexibility!

KCC is committed to building a workforce which reflects the diversity of the county's working residents, encouraging applications from people of all ages, abilities, genders, sexual orientations, ethnic backgrounds, faiths and those with caring responsibilities, and aspires to create an inclusive workplace where everyone can be themselves at work.

Location Maple Rise, Canterbury Road, Ashford Kent, United Kingdom