Job Description

Job Title: Decorator Operative
Contract Type: Permanent
Salary: £31,243.65 Per annum
Working Hours: 40 Hours per week
Working Pattern: Monday-Friday, Hybrid
Location: Camden, London

If you share our values and are excited about making a significant impact at Riverside, please ensure you attach a current CV and covering letter. At Riverside we recruit to potential not just on skills and experience, so we encourage you to apply even if you don't meet all the essential criteria on the job description.

Please note that whilst we will accept applications on the basis of any form of valid legal permission to work in the UK, we will be surrendering the Riverside Sponsorship licence, so for the avoidance of doubt, we are unable to apply for any further sponsorships whether on behalf of existing colleagues or candidates.

The difference you will make as a Decorator Operative
You will carry out decorator works for void upgrades, including, To prepare and decorate void social housing properties to required lettable and compliance standards, ensuring safe, clean, and presentable homes for new tenant, the successful candidate will be provided with a van, fuel card and all PPE.

About you
We are looking for someone with

• Proven experience as a Decorator, ideally within social housing or void properties
• Strong knowledge of surface preparation and painting techniques
• Ability to work independently and manage workload across multiple properties
• Good understanding of Health & Safety on construction or housing sites

Why Riverside?
At Riverside, we’re a housing association with a difference – enhancing the everyday for all our customers. For 90 years, we’ve been revitalising neighbourhoods and supporting communities by providing the homes they need to live full, fulfilling and rewarding lives.
We have a portfolio of over 75,000 affordable residential and retirement homes across the UK. Our work ranges from homelessness services to social care, employment support to retirement living, and we need the best people on board to help us.
Working with us, you’ll enjoy:

• Competitive pay & generous pension
• 28 days holidays plus bank holidays
• Flexible working options available
• Investment in your learning, personal development and technology
• A wide range of benefits

Diversity and Inclusion at Riverside:
We are inclusive. At Riverside, we value diversity in all its forms. We foster a workplace where all individuals are respected, empowered, and heard. Our commitment to inclusivity drives our success and enriches the lives of our customers and colleagues.

Applications may close before the deadline, so please apply early to avoid disappointment.

Role profile
Decorating Works
• Prepare and decorate internal surfaces including walls, ceilings, woodwork, doors, and skirting boards
• Carry out external decorating where required, including fences, sheds, and external woodwork
• Strip wallpaper, fill, sand, and make good surfaces prior to decoration
• Apply finishes using brushes, rollers, and spraying equipment where appropriate
• Ensure all works are completed to agreed voids specifications and quality standards
• Lay carpet tiles in void properties
Voids Turnaround
• Work efficiently to tight deadlines to support quick void turnaround times
• Complete multiple properties as part of a rolling voids programme
• Coordinate with other trades (multi trade, cleaners, waste operatives) to ensure smooth handovers
Health, Safety & Compliance
• Work in line with Health & Safety legislation, method statements, and risk assessments
• Use PPE correctly at all times
• Identify and report hazards, defects, or additional works required
• Follow COSHH guidance when handling paints and materials
Property Care & Customer Standards
• Treat all properties with respect and care
• Maintain clean and tidy working areas during and after works
• Ensure properties are left safe, clean, and ready for inspection

Knowledge, Skills and Experience
Essential:
• Proven experience as a Decorator, ideally within social housing or void properties
• Strong knowledge of surface preparation and painting techniques
• Ability to work independently and manage workload across multiple properties
• Good understanding of Health & Safety on construction or housing sites
• Full UK driving licence (essential)

Desirable:
• Experience working in a voids, repairs, or planned works team
• NVQ Level 2 or equivalent in Painting & Decorating
• Basic multi trade awareness (minor making good works)
• Experience using handheld or digital job management systems

Riverside is one of the UK’s leading not-for-profit social housing and regeneration organisations, owning or managing around 75,000 homes from Irvine to Kent. We are a leading provider of supported housing services, particularly for those affected by homelessness, and our track record of transforming lives and revitalising neighbourhoods dates back over 90 years. We have plans to build over 15,000 affordable homes over the next decade.