Maintenance Officer

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.

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.