Job Description

Purpose of Position

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.

Working 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

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.