This role plays a key part not only in carrying out a range of general health & safety room checks, cleaning, building maintenance and caretaking tasks, but also in supporting a safe, respectful and dignified living environment for residents.
The Maintenance Officer will support the Facilities Manager in the delivery of planned and reactive maintenance tasks, ensuring buildings remain safe, compliant and welcoming. In addition, the role contributes to the organisation’s wider mission by working sensitively within a supported housing environment and recognising the needs of residents.
Work Environment
This role is based within supported housing for individuals who have experienced homelessness and may be living with mental health challenges, substance misuse, or complex trauma.
The environment can at times be unpredictable, and properties may experience higher levels of wear and tear than typical residential settings. The successful candidate must be comfortable working in these environments and demonstrate patience, resilience, and a non-judgemental approach at all times.
You will regularly access occupied rooms and communal areas and may encounter residents displaying challenging behaviours. You will be supported by a wider team but must be able to maintain professional boundaries while showing empathy and respect.
Responsibilities & Duties:
Support daily, weekly & monthly planned maintenance tasks as scheduled (fire alarm tests, water temperature recording, emergency lighting tests, etc.)
Support Customer Services with planned room health & safety checks.
Provide first-line response to reactive maintenance, cleaning and repairs
Carry out minor building repairs including decorating, plumbing and fabric repairs
Check plant rooms and boilers for leaks and general condition
Ensure equipment is well maintained and safely stored
Ensure portable electrical appliances are tested as required
Use hand and power tools safely and effectively
Assist with inspections of grounds, buildings and facilities
Undertake general janitorial and porterage duties
Maintain accurate digital documentation and records
Health & Safety
Ensure Health & Safety procedures are consistently implemented
Contribute to risk assessments and implement actions
Monitor subcontractors to ensure compliance and quality of work
Proactively identify and report hazards across properties
Clear snow and ensure safe access during adverse weather
Working with Residents & Environment
Engage with residents in a respectful, trauma-informed and non-judgemental way
Work within occupied properties with sensitivity and awareness of resident circumstances
Build positive, professional relationships while maintaining clear boundaries
Remain calm and professional when dealing with distressed or challenging individuals
Report safeguarding concerns appropriately and follow organisational procedures
Work collaboratively with housing and support teams to ensure a coordinated approach
Service Delivery
Proactively walk communal areas and report maintenance, safety or cleaning issues
Monitor and action tasks through internal systems in a timely manner
Ensure all duties align with organisational policies and performance standards
Undertake other duties within the scope of the role as required.
Important Information About the Role
This is not a standard maintenance role and involves working in environments affected by complex social issues
Properties may at times be in a poor condition due to resident circumstances
You may encounter behaviours linked to mental health challenges, trauma, or substance use
The role requires resilience, adaptability, and a strong values-based approach
Full training and support will be provided, but candidates should feel confident and motivated to work in this type of environment.
Person Specification
Experience
Experience of building maintenance, cleaning, caretaking or handyperson duties
Experience of risk assessment or health & safety practices
Experience working in social housing, supported housing, homelessness services or similar environments (highly desirable)
Experience working with vulnerable adults or individuals with complex needs (desirable)
Qualifications
Relevant building trade or health & safety/facilities qualification (desirable)
Skills & Knowledge
Good understanding of health and safety in a building environment
Strong communication and interpersonal skills
Good IT and systems skills
Understanding of safeguarding principles (desirable)
Awareness of trauma-informed or person-centred approaches (desirable)
Abilities
Ability to communicate effectively with a wide range of people while maintaining professional boundaries
Ability to manage workload effectively in a dynamic environment
Ability to remain calm and professional under pressure
Ability to accurately record and manage information
Personal Qualities
Empathy and compassion for individuals facing multiple disadvantage
Resilience and emotional maturity in challenging environments
Non-judgemental and inclusive approach
Strong sense of accountability and professionalism
Honest, reliable and self-motivated
Patient, tolerant and able to remain calm in difficult situations
Desirable Criteria
Full driving licence
Before starting this position, you’ll need to undergo a criminal record check by the Disclosure and Barring Service. You must be entitled to work in the UK
Salary description
£28000.00 - £28800.00 per year