At a Glance
- Tasks: Join us as a Housekeeping and Cleaning Services Assistant, keeping our university clean and welcoming!
- Company: Durham University is a globally recognized institution, dedicated to community and inclusivity.
- Benefits: Enjoy 39 days of leave, discounts, health support, and opportunities for personal development.
- Why this job: Be part of a supportive team that values diversity and offers flexible working hours.
- Qualifications: Good communication skills and attention to detail are essential; previous experience is a plus.
- Other info: Part-time roles available with various shifts; perfect for students balancing studies and work.
The predicted salary is between 13200 - 18500 £ per year.
Job Title : Housekeeping and Cleaning Services Assistant Department Estates and Facilities Directorate Accommodation and Commercial Services Grade: Grade 1 Salary range: £22,113 (pro-rata) Working arrangements: Part-time (various shifts – see below) Permanent Onsite working only For available shifts, please see below Closing date: Sunday 8th December Interview date: Monday 16th December (between 8am-12pm) Available Shifts: Term Time: 1x 15 hours per week, 30 weeks per year, 6pm-9.00pm Monday-Friday Full Year: 1 x 12.5 hours per week, 6.00am-8.30am Monday-Friday 1x 16 hours per week, 6.00am-10.00am Saturday-Tuesday 4x 15 hours per week, 6.00am-9.00am Monday-Friday 1x 12.5 hours per week, 5.30pm-8.00pm Monday-Friday 1x 17.5 hours per week, 6.00am-9.30am Monday-Friday 1x 20 hours per week, 6.00am-10.00am Monday-Friday Fixed Term Maternity Cover: 1x 15 hours per week, January 2025- November 2025, 6.00am-9.00am Monday-Friday The University At Durham University, we are proud of our people, because they are at the heart of our globally outstanding institution, which is a key part of our local community. We inspire our people to do extraordinary things and we invite you to join our fantastic team. Across the University, we have a huge variety of roles and responsibilities, which together make us one large and successful community. Whether you are at the very start, middle or end of your career, there is a role for you. We believe everyone has their own unique skills to offer. At the University we promote and actively champion equality, diversity and inclusion. It is crucial that everyone can be themselves and can flourish in an environment where everyone respects each other and is treated fairly. We want our people and wider community to feel happy, secure and proud to be a part of Durham. We are looking for the same values in you. We welcome and encourage applications from members of groups who are under-represented in our work force including people with disabilities, women and black, Asian and minority ethnic communities. For more information on our EDI strategy and values, click here. The Role and Department As Housekeeping and Cleaning Services Assistant, you will deliver a range of cleaning and housekeeping services across University premises, including the cleaning and servicing of facilities, offices and common areas, used by students, staff and commercial customers. The Estates and Facilities Directorate provides a number of essential services to Durham University and is responsible for managing, maintaining and developing the infrastructure and building fabric of the various campuses. Further information about the role and the responsibilities is at the bottom of this job description. Working at Durham A competitive salary is only one part of the many fantastic benefits you will receive if you join the University, you will also receive access to the following fantastic benefits: • 27 Days annual leave per year (in additional to 8 public holidays and 4 customary days per year), a total of 39 days, including time off between Christmas and New Year. • No matter how you travel to work, we have you covered. We have parking across campus, a cycle to work scheme which helps you to buy a bike and discount with local bus and train companies. • Discounts via our benefits portal, including money off at supermarkets, high street retailers, IT products such as Apple, the cinema and days out at various attractions. • On site nursery is available and children’s clubs in the summer holidays. • Lots of support for health and wellbeing including discounted membership for our state-of-the-art sport and gym facilities and access to a 24-7 Employee Assistance Programme. • The opportunity to take part in staff volunteering activities. • Family friendly policies, including maternity and adoption leave, which are among the most generous in the higher education sector (and likely above and beyond many employers). • If you are keen on advancing in your role or career, we have a genuine passion for developing our colleagues from qualifications to IT skills, courses and apprenticeships. • Generous pension schemes. What you need to demonstrate when you apply To be considered for this role, here are the skills/experience we’re looking for: Essential Criteria 1. Good spoken and written communication skills. 2. Basic numeracy and literacy skills. 3. Evidence of personal development to maintain skills. 4. Ability to work alone but build positive working relationships and work in a team. 5. Ability to manage time to meet deadlines. 6. Ability to follow instructions, spoken or written, accurately. 7. Good attention to detail. 8. Ability to deal effectively with staff and customers at all levels. Desirable Criteria 1. Basic digital skills including the ability to use the internet and email. 2. BICS or First Aid trained. 3. Previous housekeeping and/or cleaning experience. How to apply We prefer to receive applications online. When you apply you need to submit a CV and/or a statement that tells us your experience and gives examples of how you meet the criteria above. We will update you about your application at various points throughout the selection process, via automated emails from oure-recruitmentsystem. Please check your spam/junk folder periodically to make sure you have not missed any of our updates. Who to contact for more information If you would like to have a chat or ask any questions about the role or if you are struggling to complete the application process, Stephanie Rolfe, Housekeeping, Cleaning and General Services Manager, stephanie.j.rolfe@durham.ac.uk, would be happy to speak to you. Typical Role Requirements Here are the kind of activities that you’ll be asked to undertake and ways in which you’ll be expected to operate. Service Delivery • Provide an excellent, responsive service to our students, staff and others by carrying out your tasks using the relevant procedures (which we will provide training for). • Look after yourself and others by following health and safety regulations, including correctly wearing any protective clothing or equipment provided, e.g., uniform provided e.g., safety shoes, and be aware of any hazards. • Learn how to use everyday equipment and tools e.g., cleaning equipment, digital devices, software and applications. • Follow instructions from a supervisor to learn the correct methods to deliver set tasks and procedures. • Learn how to, and deliver, services in line with regulatory and statutory guidelines and protocols. • Keep physical internal and external environments, buildings and services in a safe and secure working order. • A commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion and the University’s values. Teamwork • Help and cooperate with the rest of your team. • Support other team members to deliver a frontline student, staff or visitor service, when asked. • Help colleagues maintain facilities and equipment safely and securely. • Bring any problems to the attention of more senior colleagues. • Adopt and promote a flexible approach to working and be willing to cover absences, when given reasonable notice, including evenings and weekends, as business demands. Communication/Personal • Show a commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion and the University’s values. • Use digital devices and apps (such as email) to communicate with staff, students, and others. • Ensure own work is completed in accordance with risk assessments specific to tasks and environments. • Attend all training and development, as required. Other • Undertake an element of physical manual handling, which can include lifting and transporting equipment and deliveries. • Any other reasonable duties. Please note that in submitting your application Durham University will be processing your data. We would ask you to consider the relevant University Privacy Statement, which provides information on the collation, storing and use of data. When appointing to this role the University must ensure that it meets any applicable immigration requirements, including salary thresholds which are applicable to some visas.
Housekeeping and Cleaning Services Assistant employer: Durham University
Contact Detail:
Durham University Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Housekeeping and Cleaning Services Assistant
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarize yourself with the specific cleaning and housekeeping services that Durham University offers. Understanding their procedures and standards will help you demonstrate your commitment to delivering excellent service during the interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight any previous experience in housekeeping or cleaning roles, even if it's informal. Be ready to discuss how you managed your time and followed instructions in those positions, as this aligns with the skills they are looking for.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to showcase your communication skills. Since the role involves interacting with staff and students, think of examples where you effectively communicated in a team setting or resolved issues with customers.
✨Tip Number 4
Be ready to discuss your approach to health and safety regulations. Familiarize yourself with basic safety practices in cleaning environments, as this will show your awareness and readiness to follow the university's guidelines.
We think you need these skills to ace Housekeeping and Cleaning Services Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description carefully to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Housekeeping and Cleaning Services Assistant position. Tailor your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with these expectations.
Craft Your CV: Make sure your CV is up-to-date and clearly outlines your relevant experience, particularly in housekeeping or cleaning roles. Emphasize your communication skills, attention to detail, and ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
Write a Strong Statement: In your statement, provide specific examples of how you meet the essential criteria listed in the job description. Discuss your personal development efforts and any relevant training or certifications you have completed.
Follow Application Instructions: Ensure that you submit your application online through the specified platform. Double-check that all required documents are included and that your application is submitted before the closing date of December 8th.
How to prepare for a job interview at Durham University
✨Show Your Communication Skills
Since good spoken and written communication skills are essential for this role, be prepared to demonstrate your ability to communicate clearly. You might be asked to explain how you would handle a situation with a colleague or a customer.
✨Highlight Your Attention to Detail
Attention to detail is crucial in housekeeping and cleaning services. Be ready to provide examples from your past experiences where your attention to detail made a difference in the quality of your work.
✨Demonstrate Teamwork Abilities
This role requires the ability to work well in a team. Share specific instances where you collaborated effectively with others, supported your teammates, or contributed to a positive working environment.
✨Prepare for Practical Questions
Expect questions that assess your ability to follow instructions and manage time effectively. Think about how you would prioritize tasks in a busy environment and be ready to discuss your approach.