At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic maintenance team to keep our beautiful college running smoothly.
- Company: Join the National Horseracing College, a vibrant and welcoming environment.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous holiday, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible work culture with a focus on trust and support.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in a scenic setting while working with inspiring students.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership skills and experience with amenity tractors required.
The predicted salary is between 38800 - 38800 £ per year.
The National Horseracing College (NHC) seeks to employ a Lead Maintenance Operative to join its enthusiastic, vibrant, and hardworking team. As one of only two specialist horse racing colleges in the UK, this third sector provider delivers training for people in both racing and other equine industries. Located in the scenic grounds of a private estate near Doncaster, it achieved Ofsted Grade 2 for overall effectiveness and Grade 1 for both Behaviour and Attitudes, and Personal Development in December 2022.
The Lead Maintenance Operative is an active participant in the work of maintaining the NHC's land, buildings, and physical infrastructure. They are to plan, direct and supervise the efficient and effective use of the Maintenance Team members' time and skills as well as allocated vehicles, plant equipment, and tools to enable the College's on-site activities while complying with college policies and relevant regulations/legislation. They are to establish good communications and working relationships with line management and other NHC Team Leads to ensure the optimal delivery of the College's mission and objectives on-site.
To be selected for this busy and varied role, you must have a proven record of leading teams, and effective communication skills both verbal and in writing. You must either hold a qualification for driving an amenity tractor using trailed implements and a loader or have experience in doing so. You should be highly motivated, an excellent communicator and be able to lead and work as part of a team.
Hours are 41-per week, Monday to Friday, including on-call alternate Saturday mornings for up to 4 hours which would be taken back on Tuesday PM. The salary is £38,800 per annum with a contributory pension scheme. An initial holiday entitlement of 25-days plus Bank Holidays, which increases incrementally, and Life Assurance (2 x salary).
Working for the NHC provides significant benefits compared to regular schools, colleges and other settings. You can progress your career with us. We care about our people, investing in staff development, regularly providing internal CPD training as well as paying for external courses so that we can all develop our skills and careers.
Our students are inspiring to work with. They develop a great deal of resilience, discipline, and maturity through their main course. They spend a lot of time away from screens, with animals and in the fresh air. This leads to a productive, calm, and pleasant learning environment where staff have the chance to make a real difference.
It's a wonderful environment to work in. The NHC is well known for being welcoming and friendly. Staff have a clarity of purpose and a sense of togetherness that shines through and fits the beautiful surroundings of Rossington Hall.
You won't be micromanaged. Our leadership understand that professionals want clear direction, while being trusted to carry out their duties effectively. Working at the NHC provides that feeling you get from the best managers, that you are trusted and supported.
If you would like to visit the college to see for yourself, we would be very happy to accommodate you. The selected applicant will be asked to apply for an enhanced disclosure from the Disclosure and Barring Service. The College meets equality and diversity, health and safety and safeguarding children and young people requirements.
Closing date for applications: Friday, 15th of May 2026.
Lead Maintenance Operative employer: National Horseracing College
Contact Detail:
National Horseracing College Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Maintenance Operative
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the NHC! Research their values and mission so you can show how your experience aligns with what they’re all about. This will help you stand out during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former employees on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral, which is always a bonus!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions related to team leadership and maintenance operations. We want you to feel confident and ready to showcase your skills!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our fantastic team at the NHC.
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Maintenance Operative
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Leadership Skills: Make sure to highlight your experience in leading teams. We want to see how you've motivated others and managed projects effectively, so share specific examples that showcase your leadership style.
Communicate Clearly: Since effective communication is key for this role, ensure your application is well-structured and free of jargon. Use clear language to express your thoughts and make it easy for us to understand your qualifications.
Tailor Your Application: Don’t just send a generic application! Take the time to tailor your CV and cover letter to reflect the specific requirements of the Lead Maintenance Operative role. Show us why you’re the perfect fit for our team at NHC.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates regarding the process!
How to prepare for a job interview at National Horseracing College
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand the role of a Lead Maintenance Operative inside out. Familiarise yourself with the specific maintenance tasks and responsibilities mentioned in the job description. This will help you demonstrate your knowledge and show that you're genuinely interested in the position.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Since this role involves leading a team, be prepared to discuss your previous leadership experiences. Think of specific examples where you've successfully managed a team or project. Highlight how you communicated effectively and motivated your team to achieve their goals.
✨Communicate Clearly
Effective communication is key for this role. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. During the interview, listen carefully to the questions asked and respond thoughtfully. This will showcase your verbal communication skills and your ability to engage with others.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the college's maintenance strategies, team dynamics, or opportunities for professional development. This shows your enthusiasm for the role and helps you gauge if the NHC is the right fit for you.