At a Glance
- Tasks: Perform reactive maintenance across residential and educational properties, including carpentry, plumbing, and installations.
- Company: Join a values-driven organisation dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, flexible working, health support, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of a collaborative team with excellent career growth potential.
- Why this job: Make a real difference while developing your skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: NVQ Level 2 in a relevant trade and experience in a similar role required.
The predicted salary is between 26843 - 33836 £ per year.
Application Deadline: 1 September 2026
Department: Estates
Employment Type: Full Time
Location: Harborne, Birmingham, UK
Compensation: £26,843 - £33,836 / year
Description Salary: £26,842.55 - £33,836.23 per annum (salary dependent on qualifications and experience)
Hours: 37 hours per week
Plus minimum 1 week in 6 out of hours on call (paid as overtime)
Weeks: 52 Weeks per year
Contract: Permanent
Job Purpose
We are seeking a skilled and self-motivated Senior Reactive Maintenance Operative to join our maintenance team. The ideal candidate will be a confident all-rounder with proven experience across multiple trades, capable of working independently and delivering high-quality work.
Key Responsibilities & Safeguarding
- Carry out reactive maintenance tasks across residential and educational properties.
- Perform reactive multi-trade duties including:
- Carpentry (e.g., door hanging, repairs)
- Painting and Decorating
- Kitchen and Bathroom Installations
- Plumbing
- Diagnose and resolve maintenance issues efficiently.
- Ensure all work complies with health and safety regulations and company standards.
- Maintain accurate records of work completed.
- Liaise with tenants, clients, and team members professionally.
- Working at height to ensure installations etc. can be carried out safely.
- Lone working, including use of a Lone Working app and fall sensor, will be required.
- Liaise with contractors and suppliers when necessary.
- Maintain a safe working environment and adhere to college health and safety policies.
- Carry out other Estates duties based on direction from your Line Manager.
Safeguarding Commitments
As part of our commitment to safer recruitment, and in line with updated guidance published in September 2022, we will carry out an online search of all shortlisted candidates. This search may enable us to identify any incidents or issues that have happened, and publicly available for review online, which we may wish to explore with you in further detail during the interview process. As part of your application we have asked you to provide the account names, usernames and/or handles for any social media platform that you use, as well as the names of any websites that you own, post on, or contribute to. A Google search will also be conducted. These checks will only be conducted if you are shortlisted for interview. Please see our safer recruitment and selection policy for further information. Under Section 7 of SVGA 2006 it is an offence to apply for the role if the applicant is barred from engaging in regulated activity relevant to children. The College's Safeguarding Policies are available here.
Skills, Knowledge and Expertise
Essential Criteria
- NVQ Level 2 in a relevant trade (e.g., Carpentry, Plumbing, Multi-skills)
- Full UK driving licence
- Experience in a similar role, ideally in education or public sector
- Ability to work independently and manage workload effectively
- Able to plan, prioritise and work to deadlines
- Good communication skills
- Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail
- Multi-skilled maintenance experience
- Willingness to undertake further training and development
Benefits
Join Our Business Support Services Team. Behind every successful service at QAC is a dedicated team of professionals providing the essential support that enables our students, clients, staff, and visitors to thrive. We are looking for talented and committed individuals to join our Business Support Services teams across a range of specialist areas. Our Business Support functions play a vital role in ensuring the smooth, safe, and efficient operation of the charity. Whether supporting people, finances, technology, facilities, or frontline customer services, every role contributes to our mission of empowering people with disabilities to achieve greater independence and fulfilment.
Our Business Support Services is built up of:
- Human Resources (HR) - Supporting recruitment, employee wellbeing, learning and development, employee relations, and ensuring colleagues have the support they need to succeed.
- Finance - Providing financial management, budgeting, payroll, procurement, and financial administration services that help the organisation operate effectively and sustainably.
- Reception and Customer Services - Creating a welcoming and professional first impression for students, clients, visitors, and stakeholders, while providing information, support, and administrative assistance.
- Health and Safety - Promoting a culture of safety and wellbeing, ensuring compliance with legislation and supporting the creation of safe environments across our campus and services.
- Estates and Facilities - Maintaining our buildings, grounds, accommodation, and facilities to ensure they remain safe, accessible, and fit for purpose.
- IT and Resources - Delivering technology solutions, technical support, assistive technologies, and learning resources that enable staff, students, and clients to work, learn, and live independently.
Working within our Business Support teams offers the opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to an organisation with a strong social purpose. While these roles may not involve direct support delivery, they are fundamental to ensuring our services run effectively and continue to make a positive impact on the lives of the people we support. This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a collaborative and values-driven organisation where your skills and expertise will help drive excellence across the charity. If you are professional, proactive, and passionate about making a difference behind the scenes, we'd love to hear from you.
Our benefits include:
- Access to on site car parking
- Use of QAC Fitness Centre (subject to opening hours)
- Cycle to Work Scheme (Salary Sacrifice)
- 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme Helpline (BHSF)
- Access to Education Support
- Free Helpline for Teachers & Education Staff
- QAC Mental Health First Aiders & activities to support health and wellbeing
- BHSF Benefits Package including Healthcare Plans, discounted shopping/services
- Annual Flu vaccination/voucher
- Access to other benefit/discount schemes (which may be subject to charge) e.g. Blue Light Card, TOTUM (NUS), Charity Worker Discounts, Discounts for Teachers
- Dell Advantage programme - a free programme that offers savings to students, parents and all staff at QAC - up to 20% off.
- Health and Wellbeing Services (Occupational Health/Counselling)
- Free Tea/Coffee and Staff Room facilities
- Dining Room facilities with hot/cold food (free meal provided for those supporting students at mealtimes)
- Additional discretionary concessionary/closure days as part of leave entitlement (including closure over Christmas/New Year period)
- Reward and Recognition Policy - Living the Values Awards (team & individual) and long service
- Enhanced/Occupational paid leave e.g. maternity/paternity (subject to qualifying criteria)
- Occupational sick pay (based on length of service)
- On site wellbeing activities (e.g. yoga, meditation)
- Support for training/ CPD (either by way of study leave and/or funding)
- Flexible working arrangements including Flexible Working Policy Agreements, Time Off in Lieu (TOIL) in prior agreement with line manager.
This list is not exhaustive and may be subject to review and/or change.
Senior Reactive Maintenance Operative in Birmingham employer: Queen Alexandra College
As a Positive Behaviour & Engagement Officer at our college in Harborne, Birmingham, you will join a supportive and collaborative environment dedicated to fostering student engagement and wellbeing. We offer a range of benefits including access to fitness facilities, flexible working arrangements, and comprehensive health support, all while promoting a culture of continuous professional development. Our commitment to safeguarding and person-centred approaches ensures that you will be part of a team that values empathy, respect, and the growth of both students and staff.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Reactive Maintenance Operative in Birmingham
✨Get Your Hands Dirty
In skilled trades, practical experience is everything. Consider volunteering or doing odd jobs in your area to build up your skills and visibility. Local businesses often appreciate helping hands and it might just lead to a full-time gig!
✨Join Trade Associations
Look into joining organisations specific to your trade (like the National Federation of Builders or similar). They often have job boards, networking events, and apprenticeships that can put you in touch with employers who value skilled workers. Plus, being part of these communities adds credibility to your profiles!
✨Showcase Your Work Online
Craft a portfolio that highlights your craftsmanship—before and after photos, project descriptions, and client testimonials are all golden! Share this on platforms that cater to skilled trades, like Instagram or dedicated forums, to attract potential employers looking for your skillset.
✨Apply Directly and Follow Up
Don’t just rely on job boards—visit local businesses, introduce yourself, and drop off your CV. Building rapport face-to-face can work wonders in the skilled trades sector. And remember, following up after applying through our website shows dedication; it might just give you an edge over other candidates!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Reactive Maintenance Operative in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Skills with Certificates:In the skilled trades world, your practical skills and certifications are key! Make sure you highlight any relevant qualifications or training you've completed. If you’ve got a trade-specific certificate, like an NVQ or City & Guilds, include it in your CV to catch Queen Alexandra College's eye.
Tailor Your CV to the Job:Don’t just send out a generic CV; tailor it specifically for the skilled trades role at Queen Alexandra College. Emphasise your hands-on experience, the tools and techniques you’re proficient in, and any notifiable compliance standards you've met. This shows that you’ve put thought into your application.
Highlight Your Projects or Achievements:Don’t forget to showcase any significant projects or achievements in your cover letter. Whether it’s completing a complex installation or meeting deadlines on a large project, these details make a big difference. They help paint a picture of your expertise and dedication!
Keep It Concise and Relevant:When applying for a full-time role in skilled trades, keep your writing to the point. Hiring managers appreciate clear, concise applications. Focus on relevant experiences and skills, and avoid fluff. Remember, they’re looking for someone who can get the job done—so show them you can!
How to prepare for a job interview at Queen Alexandra College
✨Master the Hands-On Skills
In skilled trades, practical skills matter a ton. Be ready to showcase your hands-on abilities during the interview—whether it's through a practical test or a demonstration of your craftsmanship. Bring your best examples of past projects to discuss them in detail!
✨Know Your Tools Like the Back of Your Hand
Employers in the skilled trades often want to hear about your proficiency with specific tools and equipment. Brush up on the tools relevant to your field and be prepared to discuss your experiences using them. This shows you’re not just experienced but also safe and competent.
✨Be Ready to Talk About Safety Practices
Safety is paramount in skilled trades. Be prepared to discuss your knowledge of safety regulations and how you've implemented them in previous roles. This will demonstrate your commitment to a safe working environment—a quality that employers highly value.
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
When tackling skilled trade roles, employers want to know about your ability to think on your feet. Be ready with examples of how you've solved unexpected problems on the job. This will illustrate your adaptability and resourcefulness, key traits for a full-time position at Queen Alexandra College.
