At a Glance
- Tasks: Maintain a safe and welcoming environment through hands-on maintenance and repairs.
- Company: Join YMCA Reading, a community-focused organisation making a real difference.
- Benefits: Enjoy private medical insurance, discounted food, and a cycle to work scheme.
- Other info: Flexible shifts with opportunities for personal growth and development.
- Why this job: Make an impact in your community while developing practical skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in building maintenance and good DIY skills required.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 £ per year.
Reporting to: General Manager
Hours: 30 per week, 8am – 4pm or 1:30pm – 9:30pm, on a rota including 1 weekend in 4
About The Role
Are you a practical, hands‑on person who enjoys making a real difference each day? Join us at YMCA Reading as a Facilities Assistant, where you’ll play a key role in maintaining a safe, welcoming environment for our residents. This is a varied and rewarding role that’s perfect for someone who takes pride in their work, enjoys problem‑solving, and thrives in a proactive setting with minimal supervision.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Carrying out day‑to‑day maintenance and repair tasks (e.g. replacing appliances, lightbulbs, small repairs)
- Performing planned preventative maintenance across our buildings and accommodation units
- Painting, decorating, and general refurbishment works
- Assisting with grounds/garden upkeep.
- Supporting health and safety checks to keep our facilities in top condition
- Keeping the maintenance workshop and stores organised
- Handling deliveries, emergencies, and supporting housekeeping where needed
- Representing YMCA Reading with professionalism and respect in all resident/customer‑facing interactions
What You’ll Need
- Experience in general building maintenance
- Qualifications, skills or experience in a trade (e.g. plumbing, electrics, decorator etc.)
- A good level of DIY skills with good fault‑finding abilities
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- A clean, valid UK driving licence
- Knowledge of COSHH regulations
- A clean and professional appearance (uniform provided)
What We’re Looking For
- A reliable, self‑motivated individual with a can‑do attitude
- Someone who can stay calm under pressure and think on their feet
- Comfortable working in a resident/customer‑facing environment
- Flexibility to cover rota shifts
- Calm and professional approach to challenging behaviours
- Ability to take initiative and work with minimal supervision
- Experience in housing, support, or charity sectors
- Knowledge of tenancy sustainment or housing administration
Role Details
- Shift pattern: 8am – 4pm or 1:30pm – 9:30pm, on a rota including 1 weekend in 4
What We Offer
- Private medical insurance and free flu vaccination
- Company pension
- Cycle to work scheme and tech scheme
- Discounted food in our Cafe and discount on hire of our community spaces
- Free on site parking
Facilities Assistant in Reading employer: YMCA Reading
YMCA Reading is an exceptional employer that prioritises the well-being and development of its staff while fostering a supportive and inclusive work culture. As a Facilities Assistant, you will enjoy a range of benefits including private medical insurance, a company pension, and opportunities for personal growth within a community-focused organisation dedicated to making a positive impact in the lives of young people. With a commitment to fairness and opportunity, YMCA Reading offers a rewarding environment where your contributions truly matter.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Facilities Assistant in Reading
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company culture! Before your interview, check out YMCA Reading's social media and website. Understanding their values and mission will help you connect with the team and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their community.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Run through common interview questions with a friend or in front of the mirror. Focus on how your hands-on experience and problem-solving skills make you a great fit for the Facilities Assistant role.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your DIY skills! Bring along examples of past maintenance work or projects you've completed. This will demonstrate your practical abilities and give the interviewers confidence in your hands-on approach.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! After your interview, send a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity. It’s a nice touch that shows your enthusiasm for the role and keeps you fresh in their minds.
We think you need these skills to ace Facilities Assistant in Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Practical Skills:When applying for the Facilities Assistant role, make sure to highlight your hands-on experience in maintenance and repair tasks. We want to see how your DIY skills and problem-solving abilities can contribute to keeping our environment safe and welcoming.
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 job description. We love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect their experiences with what we’re looking for.
Be Professional and Personable:Since this role involves interacting with residents and customers, it’s important to convey your excellent communication skills in your application. We appreciate candidates who can represent YMCA Reading with professionalism and respect, so let that shine through!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for the best chance of getting noticed. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensures you’re considered for the role as soon as possible!
How to prepare for a job interview at YMCA Reading
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, brush up on your general building maintenance knowledge. Be ready to discuss any relevant experience you have in DIY tasks or trades like plumbing or electrics. This will show that you're not just a hands-on person, but also someone who understands the technical side of the role.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Think of specific examples where you've tackled maintenance issues or improved a situation. During the interview, share these stories to demonstrate your proactive approach and ability to think on your feet. Employers love candidates who can handle challenges calmly and effectively.
✨Communicate Like a Pro
Since this role involves interacting with residents and customers, practice your communication skills. Be prepared to explain how you would handle difficult situations or challenging behaviours. Showing that you can maintain professionalism under pressure will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Dress the Part
Even though a uniform will be provided, make sure you present yourself neatly for the interview. A clean and professional appearance speaks volumes about your attitude towards the job. It shows that you take pride in your work and respect the environment you'll be part of.
