At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a thriving team maintaining and upgrading council housing with diverse projects.
- Company: Dynamic Council Housing Building team focused on customer satisfaction.
- Benefits: 32 days annual leave, flexible working, and access to training and development.
- Other info: Opportunity to work across multiple teams and earn additional pay for call-outs.
- Why this job: Enjoy job security while making a real difference in your community.
- Qualifications: Time-served Joiner with NVQ Level 2 or 3 and a full UK driving licence.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
The Council has a commercially focused, successful and thriving Housing Building team. We are looking to recruit 2 x time-served Joiners to join our team. Our team maintains domestic council housing stock and other council-owned properties, including sheltered housing schemes.
Work is delivered across the following teams:
- Reactive Maintenance Team: Uses mobile technology to support you in your role while on the move. This includes job scheduling, van stock control, and health and safety checks (e.g. vehicle inspections).
- Internal Planned Maintenance Team: Works on larger projects, including installing kitchens and bathrooms, and carrying out boiler upgrade programmes.
- Voids Team: Undertakes all necessary works to bring empty properties up to the Decent Homes Standard.
We take pride in delivering excellent customer service and high levels of customer satisfaction, and we are looking to expand our team to support this commitment. You will be expected to work across all teams as required, delivering work to a high standard, ensuring value for money, and keeping stakeholders informed of progress. This is a varied role offering consistent work, job security, and the opportunity to work across multiple types of projects. Please note a vehicle is provided, which must be collected from and returned to the depot daily.
Essential Role Requirements
- Time served Joiner: NVQ level 2 or 3, City and Guilds or equivalent. If you hold NVQ Level 2 or equivalent, you must be willing to work towards Level 3.
- Ability to work across multiple teams and disciplines.
- Full UK driving licence.
- Commitment to high standards of workmanship and customer service.
- Willingness to participate in a call‑out rota (additional payment applies).
- Satisfactory Enhanced DBS check.
N.B: Please note this role is subject to the Craft Workers JNC pay scheme of which the Craft pay awards for 2025/26 and 2026/27 have not yet been settled between Unions & LGA so remain pending agreement at this time.
For an informal discussion about the role, please contact: Matthew Sewell (Housing Buildings Manager) on 07966 347105 or via email at matthew.sewell@darlington.gov.uk.
Benefits
- 32 days Annual Leave, plus Bank Holidays, with option to purchase additional Annual Leave (pro-rata for part‑time working).
- Access to the Local Government Pension Scheme with option to make Additional Voluntary Contributions.
- Flexible working.
- Generous Maternity, Paternity and Adoption Leave schemes.
- Staff equality forums.
- Green Car Leasing Scheme.
- Access to a wide range of training, learning and development.
- Physiotherapy service.
- Confidential counselling service.
- Great wellbeing offer.
- Cycle to Work Scheme.
- Dolphin Centre Fit for Life Discounts.
- Local and National retailer discounts.
- Vivup employee benefit app and Lifestyle Savings.
- Arriva Employee Travel Club.
We are an equal opportunities' employer. We welcome applicants from all sections of the community. We aim to interview any applicant who declares a disability and meets the minimum criteria for the job.
Joiner employer: Darlington Borough Council
The Council offers a supportive and dynamic work environment for Joiners, with a strong focus on employee wellbeing and professional development. With generous benefits such as 32 days of annual leave, access to the Local Government Pension Scheme, and a commitment to equality and inclusivity, employees can thrive both personally and professionally. The opportunity to work across various teams and projects ensures job security and a fulfilling career path in a community-focused setting.
Contact Details:
Darlington Borough Council Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Joiner
✨Get Your Hands Dirty
In skilled trades, practical experience is everything. Consider volunteering or doing odd jobs in your area to build up your skills and visibility. Local businesses often appreciate helping hands and it might just lead to a full-time gig!
✨Join Trade Associations
Look into joining organisations specific to your trade (like the National Federation of Builders or similar). They often have job boards, networking events, and apprenticeships that can put you in touch with employers who value skilled workers. Plus, being part of these communities adds credibility to your profiles!
✨Showcase Your Work Online
Craft a portfolio that highlights your craftsmanship—before and after photos, project descriptions, and client testimonials are all golden! Share this on platforms that cater to skilled trades, like Instagram or dedicated forums, to attract potential employers looking for your skillset.
✨Apply Directly and Follow Up
Don’t just rely on job boards—visit local businesses, introduce yourself, and drop off your CV. Building rapport face-to-face can work wonders in the skilled trades sector. And remember, following up after applying through our website shows dedication; it might just give you an edge over other candidates!
We think you need these skills to ace Joiner
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Skills with Certificates:In the skilled trades world, your practical skills and certifications are key! Make sure you highlight any relevant qualifications or training you've completed. If you’ve got a trade-specific certificate, like an NVQ or City & Guilds, include it in your CV to catch Darlington Borough Council's eye.
Tailor Your CV to the Job:Don’t just send out a generic CV; tailor it specifically for the skilled trades role at Darlington Borough Council. Emphasise your hands-on experience, the tools and techniques you’re proficient in, and any notifiable compliance standards you've met. This shows that you’ve put thought into your application.
Highlight Your Projects or Achievements:Don’t forget to showcase any significant projects or achievements in your cover letter. Whether it’s completing a complex installation or meeting deadlines on a large project, these details make a big difference. They help paint a picture of your expertise and dedication!
Keep It Concise and Relevant:When applying for a full-time role in skilled trades, keep your writing to the point. Hiring managers appreciate clear, concise applications. Focus on relevant experiences and skills, and avoid fluff. Remember, they’re looking for someone who can get the job done—so show them you can!
How to prepare for a job interview at Darlington Borough Council
✨Master the Hands-On Skills
In skilled trades, practical skills matter a ton. Be ready to showcase your hands-on abilities during the interview—whether it's through a practical test or a demonstration of your craftsmanship. Bring your best examples of past projects to discuss them in detail!
✨Know Your Tools Like the Back of Your Hand
Employers in the skilled trades often want to hear about your proficiency with specific tools and equipment. Brush up on the tools relevant to your field and be prepared to discuss your experiences using them. This shows you’re not just experienced but also safe and competent.
✨Be Ready to Talk About Safety Practices
Safety is paramount in skilled trades. Be prepared to discuss your knowledge of safety regulations and how you've implemented them in previous roles. This will demonstrate your commitment to a safe working environment—a quality that employers highly value.
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
When tackling skilled trade roles, employers want to know about your ability to think on your feet. Be ready with examples of how you've solved unexpected problems on the job. This will illustrate your adaptability and resourcefulness, key traits for a full-time position at Darlington Borough Council.
