Team Leader (Painting, Decorating and Associated Services) - MT0010

Team Leader (Painting, Decorating and Associated Services) - MT0010

Full-Time 40500 - 49500 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
University of St Andrews

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead a team delivering painting and decorating services across the University Estate.
  • Company: Join a supportive and inclusive University environment focused on equality and diversity.
  • Benefits: Enjoy 34 days annual leave, a contributory pension scheme, and flexible working hours.
  • Other info: Permanent position with excellent career development opportunities.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact by enhancing the University’s environment for students and staff.
  • Qualifications: Experience in painting, decorating, and team leadership is essential.

The predicted salary is between 40500 - 49500 £ per year.

We are seeking to appoint a highly motivated Team Leader (Painting, Decorating and Associated Services) to join our multi-disciplinary Estates Maintenance Team. The successful candidate will be responsible for leading the delivery of painting, decorating, and associated maintenance services across the University Estate, supporting the provision of a safe, attractive, and well-maintained environment for students, staff, and visitors.

The Role

As part of the Estates Trades Team, you will lead and manage a small team responsible for delivering both planned and responsive painting and decorating works throughout the University Estate. You will ensure all work is completed to a high standard, within agreed timescales, and in full compliance with relevant Health and Safety legislation, policies, and procedures.

You will proactively coordinate resources, plan workloads, and monitor performance to maximise efficiency and service delivery. The role requires close collaboration with colleagues across Estates, including Facilities Management, Professional Services, and Environment, Health and Safety Services (EHSS), ensuring a coordinated and customer-focused approach to maintenance activities.

About You

You will be an experienced painting and decorating professional with the ability to lead, motivate, and develop a team. You will possess excellent organisational skills and have experience planning, coordinating, and monitoring maintenance projects within residential, commercial, or institutional environments.

Candidates should be able to demonstrate:

  • Proven experience in painting, decorating, and associated maintenance services.
  • Experience of supervising or leading a team and allocating resources effectively.
  • The ability to plan, coordinate, and monitor both planned and reactive maintenance works.
  • A sound knowledge and understanding of current Health and Safety legislation and safe working practices.
  • Experience inspecting, monitoring, and signing off completed works to ensure quality standards are achieved.
  • An understanding of facilities management and maintenance within residential and commercial properties.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with a customer-focused approach.
  • The ability to work effectively under pressure, prioritise competing demands, and meet deadlines.
  • A flexible and proactive approach to problem solving, with the ability to work independently and as part of a wider team.
  • A commitment to continuous improvement and delivering a high-quality service.

This is an excellent opportunity for an enthusiastic and motivated individual to play a key role in maintaining and enhancing the University Estate while leading a dedicated team of skilled trades colleagues.

Excellent terms and conditions apply – 36.25 hours/week (working hours will vary between the hours of 7am and 6pm and specific timings will vary between work colleagues to suit any operational needs), 34 days annual leave plus 5 statutory days, contributory pension scheme. This is a permanent position.

At St Andrews, equality, diversity, and inclusion are central to who we are and form a core pillar of our University Strategy. We are committed to creating a fair, inclusive and supportive workplace, reflected in our participation in national diversity charters and awards, including Athena Swan, Carer Positive and the Race Equality Charter. Applications are particularly welcome from women, who are under-represented in manual posts at the University. We also welcome applications from people from Black, Asian, minority ethnic and minority religions backgrounds and from LGBTQ+, disabled people.

This role does not meet the minimum requirements set by the UKVI to enable sponsorship of migrant workers.

Closing Date: 30 August 2026

Interview Date: To be confirmed

Team Leader (Painting, Decorating and Associated Services) - MT0010 employer: University of St Andrews

The University of St Andrews is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture that prioritises collegiality and wellbeing. As a Post-doctoral Research Fellow, you will benefit from a generous benefits package, including financial relocation support, a hybrid working environment, and extensive professional development opportunities, all while contributing to impactful research in a stunning coastal location. With a strong commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion, St Andrews fosters a supportive atmosphere where every staff member can thrive and make meaningful contributions.

University of St Andrews

Contact Details:

University of St Andrews Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Team Leader (Painting, Decorating and Associated Services) - MT0010

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 Team Leader (Painting, Decorating and Associated Services) - MT0010

Leadership Skills
Team Management
Planning and Coordination
Health and Safety Knowledge
Quality Assurance
Communication Skills
Interpersonal Skills

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 University of St Andrews'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 University of St Andrews. 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 University of St Andrews

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 University of St Andrews.