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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the Head of Maintenance in managing a diverse maintenance team and ensuring safety compliance.
- Company: Join Gonville & Caius College, a prestigious part of the University of Cambridge with a rich academic heritage.
- Benefits: Enjoy 33 days holiday, generous pension, free lunch, and access to a college gym.
- Why this job: Be part of a vibrant community while working in beautiful surroundings and making a real impact.
- Qualifications: Experience in maintenance management and a strong focus on health and safety compliance required.
- Other info: Flexible working hours with occasional weekends; apply early as the vacancy may close sooner.
The predicted salary is between 38230 - 42662 £ per year.
Hours: 40 hours per week (Full time) to work flexibly across the week on a 5 out of 7-day basis with some occasional weekend working required.
Salary: £38,230 per annum plus benefits
The Role and the Department
Following the retirement of the current post holder, Gonville & Caius College is seeking a Deputy Head of Maintenance to support the Head of Maintenance to ensure the smooth running of the department. The maintenance department is responsible for undertaking or commissioning all types of planned and reactive maintenance across our large estate consisting of a wide variety of buildings from grade one listed buildings in the centre of Cambridge to purpose built student accommodation. There is a permanent team of twelve supported by contractors as necessary. The Deputy Head will be expected to cover for the Head of Department when they are away from the department, for example due to holiday or sickness. The Deputy Head is primarily responsible for the health and safety compliance across the department, which includes our Boathouse, Sportsground and Gardens. This is a permanent full-time role.
Benefits include:
- Generous Pension Scheme; 14.5% employer contributions and 3x death in service benefit
- Health care cash plan
- 33 days of annual holiday (inc. Public Holidays)
- Free on-site lunch provided
- Workplace Nursery Scheme (salary sacrifice)
- College gym
- Car parking (subject to availability/eligibility)
- The opportunity to work in a beautiful environment
The Application Process
To view the full job description and apply, please click the 'apply' button. Please note: we advise using a desktop to complete your application form, and Chrome or Edge as the recommended browser. The closing date for applications is 12 noon BST on Sunday 15th June 2025. You are encouraged to make an early application as the vacancy may close early if sufficient applications are received. For your application to be considered it must be complete and include an up-to-date CV, covering letter, and details of 2 referees, one of whom should have detailed knowledge of your ability in relation to the requirements of the role.
The College
Gonville & Caius College is one of the largest Colleges in the University of Cambridge. It is an educational charity, and its mission is to provide a place of education, religion, learning and research, in conjunction with a University that is recognised internationally as being of the highest standard. The College is an academic community comprising some 530 undergraduate students, 250 graduate students, and 110 Fellows (lecturers, professors and other senior academic researchers and teachers) and almost 200 staff. It plays a significant role throughout the University. Our students come from all over the world and our undergraduates study all the subjects offered in the University. Our postgraduates play a vital role in the research activities of the wider University. Our Fellows have globally renowned research expertise ranging from Ancient History to Cosmology and are all recognised as leaders in their fields. The students who graduate from the College form an alumni group of approximately 11,000 individuals. They have achieved recognition in many walks of life and are resident in all continents.
Further Information
Equality of opportunity; the College actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and we encourage applications from all sections of society and from people who may be under-represented in our community. Entry into a position with the College will be determined by the application of criteria related to the duties of the post. In all cases, ability to perform the job will be the primary consideration. During the application process, candidates are requested to complete the Equality & Diversity section as part of our Equal Opportunities Policy and monitoring process. The contents of this form will not be disclosed to the selection or interview panels, and all applicant data is managed in accordance with our data protection policy. The College has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK. In applying for this role, you will provide personal data which the College will process in accordance with its data protection obligations and its Data Protection Policy.
Contact Detail:
Gonville Caius College Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Deputy Head of Maintenance
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific maintenance needs of historic and listed buildings, as this role involves managing a variety of properties. Understanding the unique challenges and regulations associated with these types of buildings will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight your experience in health and safety compliance, as this is a key responsibility of the Deputy Head of Maintenance. Be prepared to discuss specific examples of how you've ensured safety standards in previous roles during the interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with professionals in the maintenance and facilities management sector. Attend relevant events or join online forums to connect with others who may have insights into the role or the college itself, which could give you an edge in your application.
✨Tip Number 4
Research Gonville & Caius College's values and mission. Tailor your conversation during the interview to reflect how your personal values align with theirs, demonstrating that you're not just looking for a job, but are genuinely interested in contributing to their community.
We think you need these skills to ace Deputy Head of Maintenance
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Deputy Head of Maintenance position. Tailor your application to highlight relevant experience in maintenance management and health and safety compliance.
Craft a Strong Covering Letter: Write a compelling covering letter that outlines your motivation for applying, your relevant skills, and how you can contribute to the maintenance department. Be sure to address specific points mentioned in the job description.
Update Your CV: Ensure your CV is up-to-date and clearly showcases your experience in maintenance roles, leadership capabilities, and any relevant qualifications. Highlight achievements that demonstrate your ability to manage teams and ensure compliance with health and safety standards.
Provide Relevant References: Select two referees who can speak to your abilities related to the role. One should have detailed knowledge of your work in maintenance or a similar field. Make sure to inform them in advance so they are prepared to provide a reference when contacted.
How to prepare for a job interview at Gonville Caius College
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly read the job description and understand the responsibilities of the Deputy Head of Maintenance. Be prepared to discuss how your experience aligns with the specific tasks, such as health and safety compliance and managing a maintenance team.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As this role involves covering for the Head of Department, it's crucial to demonstrate your leadership abilities. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully led a team or managed projects, especially in maintenance or facilities management.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Health and Safety Regulations
Since the position is primarily responsible for health and safety compliance, brush up on relevant regulations and best practices. Be ready to discuss how you have implemented safety measures in previous roles and how you would approach this responsibility at Gonville & Caius College.
✨Prepare Questions
Interviews are a two-way street, so prepare thoughtful questions about the college's maintenance operations, team dynamics, and future projects. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the college is the right fit for you.
