At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist in maintenance and facilities management at the stunning Hillsborough Castle and Gardens.
- Company: Join a dedicated team in a heritage environment with a rich history.
- Benefits: Gain valuable skills, earn while you learn, and enjoy a supportive apprenticeship experience.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in visitor experiences while developing your career in facilities management.
- Qualifications: Five GCSEs including English, maths, and a science/engineering subject; eagerness to learn.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth and hands-on experience in a beautiful setting.
The predicted salary is between 800 - 1400 Β£ per month.
We are recruiting for a Maintenance and Facilities Apprentice at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens, giving you a fantastic opportunity to grow your Facilities and contractor management skills whilst working at the beautiful Hillsborough Castle and Gardens. Being an apprentice is an exciting challenge, often demanding but hugely rewarding. You will be training within a heritage environment, working alongside and learning from our experienced and dedicated team, developing skills and knowledge.
The role is to assist the Maintenance Contracts Manager in arranging maintenance works, including liaising with external contractors and consultants ensuring maintenance tasks are allocated and recorded promptly, and to help organise work schedules to minimise disruption to operations.
Responsibilities- To communicate effectively with internal stakeholders regarding planned works and progress updates.
- Support the management, administration, and delivery of all aspects of the maintenance service under the guidance of the Maintenance Contracts Manager and Maintenance & Facilities Manager.
- Help ensure the visitor facilities consistently provide an outstanding experience by carrying out regular inspections of visitor facilities to ensure they remain in excellent condition.
- Identify maintenance requirements through surveys and inspection.
- Respond to helpdesk queries and raise work orders using the maintenance software system.
- Coordinate maintenance works activities and liaise with contractors as directed by the Maintenance Contracts Manager.
- Maintain the upkeep of our maintenance software system, including raising purchase orders and processing invoices.
- Assist with planning, organising and monitoring maintenance works to minimise disruption to visitors, staff, and residents, while maintaining high presentation standards before, during and after maintenance works.
- Communicate effectively with staff, contractors and visitors, providing timely updates and clear reporting.
- Collect and file all necessary documentation, including completion sheets, compliance data and certifications.
- Be prepared to support other HRP events, which may occasionally require working outside normal hours.
- Microsoft Office suite.
- Five GCSEs at grade C (or 4) or above, including English and mathematics and a science/Engineering.
- Familiarity and general IT.
- Familiarity with general building maintenance/construction and/or conservation.
- Eager to learn and have strong attention to detail.
- Proactive and good time management.
ApprenticeshipNI eligibility conditions apply. Applicants please note this position is under the auspices of ApprenticeshipNI provision. Area: All of Northern Ireland. Closing date: 09 Jan 2026.
Maintenance and Facilities Apprentice employer: Hillsborough Castle and Gardens - Historic Royal Palaces
Contact Detail:
Hillsborough Castle and Gardens - Historic Royal Palaces Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice π€«
We think this is how you could land Maintenance and Facilities Apprentice
β¨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend local events, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can refer you directly.
β¨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and role thoroughly. Understand their values and how your skills align with their needs. Practise common interview questions and think of examples that showcase your abilities.
β¨Tip Number 3
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can leave a lasting impression and show your enthusiasm for the role. Itβs a simple way to stand out from other candidates.
β¨Tip Number 4
Donβt forget to apply through our website! Weβve got loads of opportunities waiting for you, and applying directly can sometimes give you an edge. Plus, itβs super easy to keep track of your applications!
We think you need these skills to ace Maintenance and Facilities Apprentice
Some tips for your application π«‘
Show Your Enthusiasm: When writing your application, let your passion for facilities management shine through! We want to see that you're excited about the opportunity to learn and grow with us at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight relevant skills and experiences. Mention any familiarity with maintenance or construction, as well as your ability to communicate effectively with different stakeholders, just like we do!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your writing clear and to the point. We appreciate straightforward communication, so avoid fluff and focus on what makes you a great fit for the Maintenance and Facilities Apprentice role.
Apply Through Our Website: Donβt forget to submit your application through our website! Itβs the best way for us to receive your details and ensures youβre considered for this fantastic opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens - Historic Royal Palaces
β¨Know Your Role
Make sure you understand the responsibilities of a Maintenance and Facilities Apprentice. Familiarise yourself with the job description, especially the tasks like liaising with contractors and managing maintenance schedules. This will help you answer questions confidently and show your enthusiasm for the role.
β¨Show Off Your Skills
Highlight any relevant skills you have, especially in Microsoft Office and general building maintenance. If you've done any related coursework or projects, be ready to discuss them. This is your chance to demonstrate your proactive attitude and attention to detail!
β¨Ask Smart Questions
Prepare some thoughtful questions to ask during the interview. Inquire about the team you'll be working with or how they measure success in this role. This shows you're genuinely interested and helps you gauge if the environment is right for you.
β¨Be Ready to Learn
Emphasise your eagerness to learn and grow within the role. Share examples of how you've tackled challenges in the past and what you've learned from them. This will resonate well with the interviewers, as theyβre looking for someone whoβs keen to develop their skills in a heritage environment.