At a Glance
- Tasks: Keep our beautiful estate clean and welcoming for children and staff.
- Company: Join Harmeny Education Trust, a charity dedicated to supporting children in need.
- Benefits: Enjoy free gym membership, wellbeing spaces, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Work in a stunning woodland setting with great transport links.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while working in a supportive team.
- Qualifications: Experience in cleaning and a commitment to high hygiene standards.
The predicted salary is between 17802 - 18425 £ per year.
Harmeny Education Trust is a charitable organisation providing therapeutic care and education to children who have experienced early years trauma through abuse, neglect and family disruption, referred from all over Scotland. We currently work with children and young people aged 5-18, both on a day and all-year-round residential basis. We are seeking a Cleaning Operative to join our Catering and Domestic team on a part-time employed basis.
The post-holder will be responsible for maintaining a high standard of cleanliness throughout the organisation, including administrative/office buildings and residential cottages. The successful applicant will be part of a small team working in a busy environment. A commitment to high standards of cleanliness and hygiene and the ability to work in an organised manner are therefore key requirements for the role. A strong customer focus and proven ability to communicate well and build productive relationships with people at all levels are essential.
The successful candidate will work 25 hours per week (0.71 FTE), 7am – 12:30am, Monday to Friday, and will be expected to work to agreed cleaning schedules. The role offers a competitive salary of £17,802 and will be rising to £18,425 effective April 1, 2026. The pro-rata salary is calculated based on a full-time equivalent salary of £24,924 per annum rising to £25,796 effective April 1, 2026. Successful applicants will be required to join Disclosure Scotland’s Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) Scheme.
Harmeny is a values-led organisation and a good fit with our ethos is as important to us as having relevant experience. Harmeny is situated in a beautiful 35-acre woodland estate, which includes residential and education accommodation, community garden, orchard, wildlife habitats and children’s play areas. Harmeny is located in Balerno on the outskirts of Edinburgh, at the foot of the Pentland Hills; we are easily accessible by bus and there is on-site parking available. We offer benefits and opportunities that promote wellbeing, work-life balance and staff development. Benefits include:
- On-site wellbeing spaces and free massage therapy
- Free gym membership
- Cycle to work scheme
- Access to a wellbeing app and counselling
- Access to discounts on shopping and events
- Access to a comprehensive induction package, and to a range of learning and development opportunities throughout their career with us
More information on the benefits of working at Harmeny, plus a fuller job description and person specification can be found on our website. If you would like to find out more about this opportunity, please contact Lesley McDonald, Catering and Domestic Services Manager by telephoning the Trust. To apply, please complete the application form via our recruitment section on our website.
Closing date: 2 April 2026
Interview date: 10 April 2026
PRINCIPAL RESPONSIBILITIES / KEY AREAS OF JOB
- Promote a positive ethos in the school consistent with Harmeny’s vision, purpose and core values.
- Support the Senior Cleaning Operative with the implementation of management decisions, consistent with the Harmeny and cottage plans, policies and procedures.
- Specific tasks will include: dusting, sweeping, mopping, vacuuming, polishing, emptying bins, cleaning toilets, sinks, showers, baths, cleaning windows, keeping entrance areas clean and tidy, making beds, loading and unloading dishwashers, removing soiled bedding or clothing to the laundry and cleaning if required.
- Assist the Homemakers to ensure that each residential cottage maintains a homely environment for clients.
- Ensure that all cleaning is completed in a manner consistent with good Health and Safety practice.
- Work in accordance with the planned programme / cleaning schedule.
- Maintain the stock of cleaning materials within a locked cupboard.
- Report all repairs or replacements needed to the line manager.
- Attend regular staff and children’s meetings as required and in order to ascertain feedback from service users.
- Cleaning operatives should expect to interact with children and care staff.
- Attend supervision, training and other meetings as required.
- Undertake any other duties as delegated by the management team which are consistent with the role of Cleaning Operative.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE
- Experience in undertaking a range of cleaning duties.
- Ability to work effectively and supportively as part of the domestic team.
- Ability to work in an organised and methodical manner.
- Ability to act on own initiative if unexpected problems arise.
- Knowledge of COSHH guidelines.
PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS / COMPETENCIES – ESSENTIAL
- Committed to high standards of cleanliness and hygiene.
- Willingness to clean any area of the organisation as requested by senior management / senior cleaning operative.
- Willingness to take personal responsibility for standards of work carried out.
- Willingness to participate in further training and development opportunities offered by Harmeny.
- Understanding of the need for and a willingness to maintain confidentiality on all Harmeny and children/young people matters.
Cleaning Operative in Balerno employer: Harmeny Education Trust Limited
Harmeny Education Trust is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity for Psychotherapy Consultants to make a meaningful impact in the lives of children who have faced early years trauma. Nestled in a stunning 35-acre woodland estate near Edinburgh, our values-led organisation fosters a supportive work culture that prioritises professional development and collaboration, allowing consultants to thrive while contributing to a vital cause.
Contact Details:
Harmeny Education Trust Limited Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Cleaning Operative in Balerno
✨Join Local Community Boards
Get involved in local community boards or forums related to janitorial services. You'll find job postings and connect with businesses in your area, which can really bolster your chances of landing that full-time gig at places like Harmeny Education Trust Limited.
✨Network with Industry Pros
Don't underestimate the power of networking! Attend industry-specific events or workshops in your locality. Chatting with people already in the field can lead you to hidden job opportunities that might not even be advertised yet.
✨Show Off Your Skills
Consider creating a simple portfolio that outlines your experience and specific skills in janitorial services. You can showcase before-and-after photos of your work or even testimonials from past employers. This can help you stand out when applying at places like Harmeny Education Trust Limited.
✨Apply Directly and Keep it Local
When you see a full-time position that sparks your interest, don’t just apply online. If you can, walk into the company, like Harmeny Education Trust Limited, with a smile and express your eagerness to contribute. Nothing beats meeting face-to-face and making that personal connection!
We think you need these skills to ace Cleaning Operative in Balerno
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:When showcasing your experience, focus on any previous roles in janitorial or cleaning services. Include specifics like the types of environments you've worked in – be it offices, schools, or hospitals – and mention any cleaning techniques or equipment you're familiar with. This will show Harmeny Education Trust Limited that you’ve got the practical skills needed for the job!
Certifications Matter:If you have any certifications related to cleaning, health and safety, or equipment handling, make sure to include them in your CV. These can really set you apart from other candidates and demonstrate your commitment to quality and safety in your approach, which is crucial in the janitorial industry.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter should explain why you’re interested in working with Harmeny Education Trust Limited specifically. Talk about what excites you about the role and how you align with their values. Maybe you love maintaining cleanliness and creating a welcoming environment; let that shine through!
Get Your Availability Clear:Since this is a full-time position, be sure to mention your availability at the beginning of your application. Harmeny Education Trust Limited will want to know that you can commit to the hours required, so throwing in your ideal working times can help ease any worry about schedule conflicts!
How to prepare for a job interview at Harmeny Education Trust Limited
✨Know Your Cleaning Techniques
Brush up on various cleaning techniques and equipment you're familiar with. Be ready to highlight specific experiences where you've tackled challenging cleaning situations. This could give the hiring team at Harmeny Education Trust Limited a glimpse of your hands-on skills!
✨Safety First!
Make sure you're up-to-date on health and safety regulations relevant to janitorial work. We can expect some questions about how you handle hazardous materials or ensure hygiene—demonstrating knowledge here shows you're serious about your job and safety at Harmeny Education Trust Limited.
✨Flexibility is Key
As this is a full-time role, be prepared to discuss your flexibility regarding shifts and potential overtime. Employers love to see candidates who are adaptable to changing schedules, so share experiences that highlight your commitment and reliability.
✨Present Your Experience!
If you have a portfolio or references from previous jobs in cleaning services, bring them along or have them ready to share. This can strengthen your case at Harmeny Education Trust Limited, showcasing your work ethic and the quality of your previous roles in janitorial services.
