Complex Caretaker (Live-In position)

O'Brien Recruitment; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 50,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A well-established residential complex in Cape Town is seeking a Complex Caretaker to manage daily operations and maintenance. The ideal candidate should have a calm presence, excellent interpersonal skills, and experience in building management. Accommodation is provided on-site, making this an attractive opportunity for a hands-on professional.

Benefits

Accommodation provided

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a caretaker, facilities, or building supervisor role.
• Technically savvy with knowledge in building maintenance.
• Valid driver’s license required for work-related travel.

Responsibilities

• Oversee building and grounds maintenance, support cleaning staff.
• Liaise with contractors and ensure compliance with safety regulations.
• Assist residents and manage building-related issues.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Conflict resolution

Technical knowledge

Time management

Multitasking

Education

Experience in caretaker or facilities role

Tools

Computer systems

Job description

Are you someone who takes pride in keeping things running smoothly, maintaining order, and ensuring people feel safe, heard, and supported?A well-established residential complex in Cape Town, Rondebosch, is seeking a hands-on and highly capable Complex Caretaker to oversee day-to-day operations, coordinate maintenance activities, and foster a sense of community across their 61-unit building.

They're looking for someone with a mature, calm presence and proven ability to juggle multiple tasks, manage people with empathy, and confidently interact with suppliers, contractors, and residents alike. You’ll be the linchpin keeping the complex humming, part project manager, part team leader, part go-to fixer.

Please kindly forward your CV to [Email Address Removed]. This role has specific requirements and therefore only suitable candidates will be considered.

Accommodation Provided: Yes – a flat is included as part of the role.
Availability: Must be available for occasional after-hours call-outs and weekend support if needed.

What You’ll Do:

• Oversee all building and grounds maintenance, including garden upkeep, pest control, plumbing issues, and minor repairs.
  
  
• Supervise and support cleaning and general maintenance staff, providing direction and on-the-job training.
  
  
• Liaise with suppliers and external contractors, ensuring work is completed to standard and within budget.
  
  
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations, including fire safety, security systems, and occupational health standards.
  
  
• Monitor lifts, gates, intercoms, lights, and laundry facilities, scheduling services and addressing faults as needed.
  
  
• Collect and reconcile laundry income, manage petty cash, and keep clear, accurate records.
  
  
• Assist residents professionally and address any building-related issues or conduct concerns.
  
  
• Keep the Board of Trustees informed with weekly progress updates and incident reporting.
  
  

Key Requirements:

• Proven experience in a caretaker, facilities, or building supervisor role.
  
  
• Strong interpersonal and conflict-resolution skills, you'll be working with both tenants and owners.
  
  
• Technically savvy and comfortable using computer systems (emails, reporting, record-keeping).
  
  
• Practical knowledge of plumbing, electrical systems, security systems, and general building maintenance.
  
  
• Ability to multitask, manage time independently, and think on your feet.
  
  
• Valid driver’s license and access to a car (reimbursed for work-related travel).
  
  
• Willingness to reside in the flat provided on-site.
  
  
• Friendly, reliable, calm under pressure—and always ready to lend a hand.
  
  

Added Advantage:

• Basic understanding of HR practices and Occupational Health and Safety.
  
  
• Prior experience managing contractors and project-based maintenance work.
  
  

Desired Skills:

• Building
• Petty Cash
• Property Management
• Reporting