General Operative (Caretaking and Grounds)

Job Description

[Employer hidden — sign up to reveal] is currently accepting applications for the position of General Operative. The postholder is responsible for supporting the safe, clean, and well-maintained operation of the school site. This role includes caretaking, minor maintenance, and grounds duties to ensure the school environment is secure, presentable, and fit for learning at all times.

Key Responsibilities

Caretaking & Site Management

• Open and secure the school buildings and grounds as required, including locking and alarm procedures.
• Carry out daily checks of the site to ensure all areas are safe, clean, and operational.
• Undertake basic maintenance tasks such as minor repairs, painting, moving furniture, replacing fixtures and porterage.
• Support the setup and breakdown of rooms for school activities, examinations, events, and meetings.
• Monitor heating, lighting, water systems, and report faults promptly.
• Supervise external contractors on site when required.
• Ensure compliance with health and safety procedures and safe working practices.
• Assist with fire safety checks, water hygiene tasks, and emergency procedures as required.

Grounds Maintenance

• Maintain school grounds to a high standard, including grass cutting, hedge trimming, leaf clearance, and litter picking.
• Ensure pathways, entrances, and outdoor areas are clean, safe, and accessible at all times.
• Support seasonal grounds tasks such as gritting, snow clearance, and preparation of outdoor areas.
• Maintain playgrounds, sports areas, and outdoor equipment in a safe condition.
• Assist with waste management, recycling, and disposal.

Health, Safety & Safeguarding

• Ensure the site is safe for pupils, staff, and visitors at all times.
• Identify hazards and take appropriate action, including reporting defects and completing logs.
• Follow all safeguarding and child protection procedures.
• Maintain appropriate professional boundaries while working in a school environment.
• Use tools, equipment, and chemicals safely and in accordance with COSHH guidelines.

General Duties

• Respond promptly to requests from school staff for site support.
• Maintain records and complete basic documentation as required.
• Support whole-school events and activities, including out of hours work where appropriate.
• Carry out any other reasonable duties consistent with the role.

Person Specification

Essential Criteria

• Previous experience in caretaking, maintenance, grounds, or a similar practical role.
• Practical skills and ability to carry out basic repairs and maintenance tasks.
• Working knowledge of health and safety procedures.
• Ability to work independently and manage time effectively.
• Reliable, flexible, and proactive approach to work.
• Have the ability to identify tasks which need completed and work on own initiative to accomplish them.
• Ability to work safely around children and young people.

Desirable Criteria

• Previous experience working in a school or educational setting.
• Knowledge of building maintenance systems or grounds equipment.
• Basic DIY or trade skills (e.g. plumbing, decorating, joinery).
• First Aid, health & safety, or fire safety training.

Skills & Attributes

• Practical, hands-on approach
• Good organisational and problem-solving skills
• Attention to detail
• Ability to work as part of a team
• Professional and courteous manner

Working Environment

• Indoor and outdoor school site
• Use of maintenance and grounds equipment
• Some lifting, carrying, and physical activity required
• Occasional early morning, evening, or weekend work

Safeguarding Statement

The school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All appointments are subject to appropriate pre-employment checks, including enhanced safeguarding clearance through AccessNI.