At a Glance
- Tasks: Keep our beautiful woodland estate clean and welcoming for children and staff.
- Company: Join Harmeny Education Trust, a charity dedicated to supporting children through trauma.
- Benefits: Enjoy free gym membership, wellbeing spaces, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible part-time hours with a competitive salary and great work-life balance.
- 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 Edinburgh employer: Harmeny Education Trust Limited
Harmeny Education Trust is an exceptional employer dedicated to fostering a supportive and nurturing environment for its staff. With a strong focus on employee wellbeing, we offer unique benefits such as free massage therapy and gym membership, alongside opportunities for professional growth within the charitable sector. Located in a convenient area with easy access to public transport and on-site parking, our work culture prioritises work-life balance, making it a rewarding place to contribute to meaningful change in the lives of young people.
Contact Details:
Harmeny Education Trust Limited Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Cleaning Operative in Edinburgh
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the organisation! Before your interview, do a bit of research on Harmeny Education Trust. Understand their values and mission, and think about how your own values align with theirs. This will help you show that you're not just looking for any job, but that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Prepare for common interview questions related to cleaning standards and teamwork. Think of examples from your past experiences where you've demonstrated high cleanliness standards or worked well in a team. This will help you feel more confident when it’s your turn to shine!
✨Tip Number 3
Dress the part! Even though this is a cleaning role, showing up in smart, clean attire can make a great first impression. It shows that you take pride in your appearance and understand the importance of cleanliness, which is key for this position.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can go a long way. It shows your appreciation for the opportunity and reinforces your interest in the role. Plus, it keeps you fresh in their minds as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace Cleaning Operative in Edinburgh
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Cleanliness:When you're writing your application, let us know why you care about cleanliness and hygiene. Share any experiences that highlight your commitment to maintaining high standards, as this is super important for the role!
Be Organised and Methodical:We love a candidate who can work in an organised manner! In your application, mention any past roles where you had to follow cleaning schedules or manage tasks efficiently. It’ll show us you’re ready to hit the ground running.
Highlight Your Team Spirit:Since you'll be part of a small team, it’s essential to demonstrate your ability to work well with others. Share examples of how you've collaborated with colleagues in previous jobs to create a positive working environment.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, you can find more info about the job and our values there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Harmeny Education Trust Limited
✨Know the Organisation
Before your interview, take some time to research Harmeny Education Trust. Understand their mission, values, and the specific needs of the children they support. This will help you align your answers with their ethos and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Highlight Relevant Experience
Make sure to prepare examples from your past cleaning roles that demonstrate your commitment to high standards of cleanliness and hygiene. Talk about specific tasks you've handled, like maintaining cleanliness in busy environments or working as part of a team, to showcase your suitability for the role.
✨Show Your Organisational Skills
Since the role requires working to agreed cleaning schedules, be ready to discuss how you manage your time and stay organised. You could mention any tools or methods you use to keep track of tasks, ensuring that everything is completed efficiently and on time.
✨Demonstrate Communication Skills
As you'll be interacting with children and care staff, it's crucial to show that you can communicate effectively. Prepare to discuss how you've built positive relationships in previous roles and how you handle feedback or work collaboratively with others.
