Caretaker

Entry Requirements:

You can get into this job through:

• an apprenticeship
• applying directly

Entry requirements:

Entry requirements:

Apprenticeship

You may be able to do a property maintenance or facilities services operative intermediate apprenticeship.

Entry requirements:

• some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship

DirectApplication

You can apply directly for caretaker job vacancies. You'll need good practical skills, and some employers may ask for GCSEs in English and maths.

Experience in building maintenance, cleaning, plumbing, electrics or gardening will be useful.

Required Skills:

Digital skills : to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

Skills:

• the ability to use your initiative
• customer service skills
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• sensitivity and understanding
• excellent verbal communication skills
• knowledge of public safety and security
• a desire to help people
• ambition and a desire to succeed
• thinking and reasoning skills
• knowledge of English language
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• the ability to work well with your hands
• physical skills like movement, coordination, dexterity and grace
• active listening skills
• the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
• the ability to understand people’s reactions
• leadership skills
• business management skills
• concentration skills

What you'll do:

Caretakers look after buildings like schools, community centres and flats, keeping them secure, clean and well-maintained.

In this job, you will:

• carry out day-to-day maintenance and minor repairs
• book outside contractors for major repair work
• make sure heating, lighting and alarm systems are working properly
• check doors and windows are locked when the building is not in use
• open up buildings in the morning and lock them at the end of the day
• order fuel, cleaning materials, new equipment and furniture as required
• take bookings if rooms in the building are available for hire
• arrange chairs and tables for meetings and clear them away afterwards
• supervise other cleaning staff

Location : You could work in the community, at a fitness centre, at a client's business or at a school.
Environment : Your working environment may be at height.

Salary:

Starter : £16,000
Experienced : £22,000

These figures are a guide

Working hours:

41 - 43 hours a week

Working Pattern is evenings / weekends on split shifts

Career Path:

With experience, you could become a supervisor or move into facility services or cleaning management. You could also work in related areas or roles, for example commercial property maintenance or security, or as an accommodation warden with a housing association.