Caretaker

You may be able to do a property maintenance or facilities services operative intermediate apprenticeship.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship

More Information

• equivalent entry requirements
• guide to apprenticeships

You can apply directly for caretaker job vacancies. You'll need good practical skills, and some employers may ask for GCSEs in English and maths.

Experience in building maintenance, cleaning, plumbing, electrics or gardening will be useful.

You'll need:

• the ability to use your initiative
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• sensitivity and understanding
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• ambition and a desire to succeed
• excellent verbal communication skills
• customer service skills
• to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

You'll need to:

• pass enhanced background checks

You may need basic computer skills to keep records, and a driving licence for some jobs.

Your day-to-day tasks may include:

• supervising cleaning staff
• carrying out day-to-day maintenance and minor repairs
• booking outside contractors for major repair work
• making sure that heating, lighting and alarm systems are working properly
• making sure that doors and windows are locked when the building is not in use
• checking the premises to guard against vandalism or break-ins
• opening up the building in the morning and locking it at the end of the day
• arranging chairs and tables for meetings and clearing away afterwards
• ordering fuel, cleaning materials, new equipment and furniture
• taking bookings if rooms in the building are available for hire
• driving the minibus if required

You could work at a client's business, at a school, in the community or at a fitness centre.

Your working environment may be at height.