At a Glance
- Tasks: Keep our community clean by tackling high-rise blocks, parks, and public spaces.
- Company: Join Portsmouth City Council and make a difference in your local area.
- Benefits: Enjoy full training, a local government pension, and provided uniform.
- Other info: Great opportunity for career growth and gaining qualifications.
- Why this job: Be part of a team that values hard work and community pride.
- Qualifications: Must have a UK driving licence and a positive attitude.
The predicted salary is between 18900 - 23100 £ per year.
A cleaning operative post at Portsmouth City Council's housing depot on Port Royal Street, covering the council's estate.
Most of the work is hands-on cleaning of high-rise blocks, sheltered schemes, play areas, toilets and car parks, plus reporting of bulky items and anti-social behaviour.
The role is physically demanding, done in all weathers, with lone working, bank holiday cover and moves between sites at short notice.
A full UK driving licence and the right to work in the UK are required.
- What the job involves
- Clean high-rise blocks, sheltered schemes, play parks, public conveniences and car parks, internally and externally, throughout the year
- Carry out specialist cleaning such as carpet cleaning and floor buffing
- Interact with residents across the estate
- Report bulky items, communal repairs and anti-social behaviour to the relevant departments
- Apply health and safety practice and safe working methods that protect yourself and others
- Operate equipment such as a backpack hoover, motor scrubber and I-Mop, and carry out its routine care and maintenance
- Carry out physical tasks including using stairs, emptying full bins and manoeuvring a cleaning cart
- Work alone at times and on bank holidays
- Move between teams and sites, sometimes at short notice
- What's required
Skills & knowledge
- Good understanding of health and safety and safe working methods
- Calm, confident and diplomatic in challenging situations
- Sound decision‑making, taking responsibility and learning from mistakes
- Accurate spoken English to converse at ease with customers and colleagues
- Effective communication and good listening
- Use of initiative and adaptability to changing work, moving between teams and sites
- Checks & eligibility
- Right to work in the UK
- Full UK driving licence
- Other
- Motivated, hard‑working and conscientious, taking pride in the work
- Honest, with a positive attitude and good work ethic
- Team player with good self‑awareness who supports others
- Good time‑keeping, as key holding may be required
- Organised, methodical approach to prioritising workload
- Evidence against each person specification point from experience or transferable skills
- Nice to have
- Previous cleaning experience
- What's offered
- Full training, including the potential to gain qualifications
- Uniform and PPE provided
- Local government pension scheme
Cleaning Operative in Sunderland employer: Portsmouth
Slim Chickens Portsmouth is an exceptional employer, recognised as a Sunday Times Best Big Company to Work For in 2025 and 2026. With a vibrant work culture that prioritises integrity, hard work, and personal growth, employees enjoy generous benefits including discounts, flexible working options, and career advancement opportunities within a supportive team environment. Join us in creating memorable guest experiences while thriving in a fun and motivating atmosphere!
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Cleaning Operative in Sunderland
✨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 Portsmouth.
✨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 Portsmouth.
✨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 Portsmouth, 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 Sunderland
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 Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth 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. Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth
✨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 Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth.
✨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 Portsmouth, showcasing your work ethic and the quality of your previous roles in janitorial services.
