Lead Caretaker

Summary:

Lead Caretaker job opportunity at a school in South Manchester. Permanent, full-time role with competitive salary.

About the School:

A school in South Manchester is dedicated to providing an inclusive and supportive learning environment, with a strong focus on academic achievement, citizenship, and personal development. It is committed to empowering students to reach their full potential.

The Opportunity:

As a Lead Caretaker, you will be responsible for the overall management and maintenance of the school site. This is a key role that ensures the school remains a safe, secure, and well-maintained environment for students, staff, and visitors. You will work closely with the Site Manager and lead the estates team to deliver a high standard of service.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage and develop the school’s buildings and specialist facilities to ensure they are maintained to a high standard
• Act as a keyholder and oversee site security, including alarms, CCTV, and emergency procedures
• Deliver hands-on site caretaking tasks, including cleanliness, site presentation, and grounds maintenance
• Lead the delivery of the school’s Planned Preventative Maintenance (PPM) programme
• Ensure all statutory checks are completed and recorded, including fire alarms, extinguishers, and emergency lighting
• Coordinate repairs, manage contractors, and oversee the estates helpdesk system
• Line manage other members of the estates team, including recruitment, performance, and development
• Monitor and enforce health and safety compliance across the site
• Support school events by managing site set-up and logistics

Qualifications & Skills:

Required

• Significant experience in a similar site or estates management role, ideally within a school or similar environment
• Strong knowledge of health and safety, hygiene procedures, and site compliance
• Ability to manage staff and external contractors effectively
• Excellent organisational skills and the ability to work flexibly and independently
• Hands-on maintenance skills and the ability to respond to emergencies effectively
• IT literacy and experience using facilities systems and records

Preferred

• Relevant health and safety training
• Full driving licence
• Experience with school operations or event management

Compensation & Benefits:

• Competitive salary and full-time employment
• Generous pension contributions
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
• Generous annual leave entitlement with increases after 5 years of service
• Access to professional development and training opportunities