At a Glance
- Tasks: Maintain and repair vital UK Defence infrastructure at RAF Lakenheath.
- Company: VIVO Defence Services, a leader in facilities management for the UK military.
- Benefits: Company van, pension scheme, 25 days leave, and training opportunities.
- Other info: Join a diverse team with flexible working options and career progression.
- Why this job: Make a real impact supporting the UK Armed Forces with hands-on work.
- Qualifications: Experience in trades like plumbing or carpentry; full UK driving licence required.
The predicted salary is between 30708 - 38708 £ per year.
Who we are VIVO provides facilities management and accommodation maintenance for the UK military and its partners. VIVO embodies both experience and innovation.
What we do We put our Customers and Families First. They are the driving force behind everything we do. We drive forward improvements for them to ensure the service they receive, whether reactive repairs or a major project, is completed safely and on time. In order to achieve this, we have 4 core values: open, caring, agile and collaborative. These are at the heart of everything we do.
Contract Type: Full-time, Permanent
Location: RAF Lakenheath, Feltwell & Mildenhall
Working Hours: 40 per week, Monday to Friday (7:30-4:30)
Are you ready to take on a hands-on role where your skills help support vital UK Defence infrastructure? We're looking for proactive and skilled Fabric Operatives to join our dedicated team at RAF Lakenheath.
If you’re someone who takes pride in quality work, values safety, and thrives in a fast-paced, purpose-driven environment — we want to hear from you.
About the role; As a Fabric Operative, you'll be responsible for maintaining and repairing the physical fabric of RAF Lakenheath and surrounding areas. Your role will involve carrying out planned preventative maintenance and urgent repairs, completing refurbishments, and taking on minor installation projects. You’ll respond to reactive tasks in line with our Service Level Agreements, ensuring all works are recorded and documented properly using our PDA system. You will be undertaking repairs such as repairs of commercial and domestic buildings, door/windows repairs, ceiling repairs and plastering. You’ll work both independently and collaboratively as part of an 10 strong on-site engineering team, interacting with military personnel, VIVO managers, and supply chain partners. A strong focus on health and safety is essential — you’ll be expected to contribute to risk assessments, follow method statements, and champion safe working practices at all times.
What you’ll need; To be successful in this role, you’ll need hands-on experience in one or more trades such as plumbing, carpentry, decorating, plastering, or bricklaying. You must have a full UK driving licence and be eligible to obtain SC-level Security Clearance. You’ll be reliable, self-motivated, and confident in your ability to communicate effectively and work under minimal supervision. We’d love it if you bring experience in a MOD environment or commercial asset maintenance, along with any first aid or health and safety qualifications. Membership in a relevant professional body would also be an advantage.
What we offer;
- Company van & fuel card
- Up to 6% contributory pension scheme
- 25 Days annual leave plus bank holidays
- Volunteer leave
- Established reward and recognition scheme
- One paid professional subscription
- Life Assurance Policy
- Employee discount and reward schemes
- Interesting, varied, and enjoyable work
- A company that recognises your contribution
- Training opportunities and qualifications within a supportive environment to ensure career progression
VIVO Defence Services The role you have applied for is with VIVO Defence Services, a joint venture between Serco and EQUANS. By applying for this role, please be aware that information contained within your CV may be shared between VIVO Defence Services, Serco and EQUANS during the recruitment process.
At VIVO, we are committed to building a diverse and inclusive organisation that supports the needs of all. Therefore, we will make reasonable adjustments at interview through to employment for our candidates and strongly encourage applications from a diverse candidate pool. We are open to discussions around flexibility and flexible working and operate a hybrid work structure in many of our business areas. We are proudly a Disability Confident Leader. Disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the job will be given the opportunity to demonstrate their abilities at an interview.
Fabric Operative | RAF Lakenheath in Suffolk employer: Serco
Serco is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee well-being and development. As a Ward Host Assistant at University Hospital Southampton, you will enjoy flexible shift options and the chance to make a meaningful impact on patient care, all while being part of a team that values hospitality and customer service excellence.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Fabric Operative | RAF Lakenheath in Suffolk
✨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 Fabric Operative | RAF Lakenheath in Suffolk
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 Serco'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 Serco. 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 Serco
✨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 Serco.
