At a Glance
- Tasks: Coordinate and support a team delivering reactive repairs in occupied homes.
- Company: Join a dynamic team focused on efficient domestic repairs.
- Benefits: Office-based role with clear progression opportunities and a supportive environment.
- Other info: Fast-paced environment with a direct impact on resident satisfaction.
- Why this job: Use your trade knowledge while managing real-world repair challenges.
- Qualifications: Trade background with experience in reactive domestic repairs and strong admin skills.
The predicted salary is between 29700 - 36300 £ per year.
Are you a tradesperson working in reactive domestic repairs who’s ready to come off the tools — but still use your trade knowledge every day? We’re looking for a Repairs Controller to coordinate and support a team of operatives delivering reactive repairs in occupied homes. This is a fully office-based role where your understanding of day-to-day repairs, access issues, and right-first-time working is just as important as strong admin and IT skills.
You’ll be the main point of contact for a team of trade operatives (plumbers, electricians, carpenters, plasterers), helping jobs stay on track, resolving issues as they arise, and reducing repeat visits.
The purpose of the role is to keep reactive repairs moving efficiently from first visit through to completion. You’ll support operatives in real time, deal with issues as they occur, keep systems accurate and up to date, and ensure residents and clients are kept informed. This role suits someone who understands the pressures of reactive repairs — last-minute changes, access problems, parts shortages, and resident expectations — and can manage these effectively from an office environment.
Key Responsibilities:- Running and managing daily reactive repair schedules for a team of operatives
- Acting as the main point of contact for operatives throughout the day
- Liaising with residents and clients (local authorities and housing associations) by phone, email, and live chat
- Providing technical guidance to operatives to help complete jobs right first time
- Reacting quickly to access issues, variations, and unforeseen problems
- Arranging parts and materials, including click & collect where required
- Accurately logging, updating, and tracking reactive repair jobs on the job management system
- Ensuring all job notes, updates, outcomes, and follow-on actions are properly recorded
- Monitoring job progress and escalating issues where required
- Trade background essential, with experience in reactive domestic repairs
- A tradesperson looking to move into a permanent, office-based role
- Strong administration and organisational skills
- Excellent IT skills – confident updating repair systems, emails, and working across multiple screens
- Clear and professional communication skills with operatives, residents, and clients
- Ability to manage multiple live jobs in a fast-paced environment
- Calm, solutions-focused approach under pressure
- A genuine opportunity to come off the tools without losing your trade knowledge
- Office-based role using real-world repairs experience
- Direct impact on repair performance, resident satisfaction, and right-first-time outcomes
- Clear progression into senior scheduling, operations, or management roles
Repairs Supervisor in Houghton Regis employer: Gilmartins
Gilmartins is an exceptional employer that values its employees and fosters a culture of recognition and growth. With a modern office environment in Houghton Regis, we offer clear progression opportunities, a competitive salary and bonus structure, and the autonomy to lead and improve contract performance. Join us to be part of a supportive team dedicated to delivering high-quality service in the social housing sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Repairs Supervisor in Houghton Regis
✨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 Repairs Supervisor in Houghton Regis
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 Gilmartins'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 Gilmartins. 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 Gilmartins
✨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 Gilmartins.
