Caretaker

You can get into this job through:

• an apprenticeship
• applying directly

Apprenticeship

You could apply to do a Property Maintenance Operative, or Facilities Services Operative, Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship.

These can take between 1 and 2 years to complete.

Entry requirements

Employers will set their own entry requirements.

Direct Application

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, carpentry, electrics or gardening will be useful.

Skills and knowledge

You'll need:

• the ability to use your initiative
• customer service skills
• knowledge of public safety and security
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• the ability to work well with your hands
• excellent verbal communication skills
• a desire to help people
• ambition and a desire to succeed
• to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

Restrictions and Requirements

You'll need to:

• pass enhanced background checks

You may need a driving licence for some jobs.

Day-to-day tasks

As a caretaker, you could:

• carry out day-to-day maintenance checks and minor repairs
• book outside contractors for major repair work
• make sure heating, lighting and alarm systems are working properly
• open up buildings in the morning and lock them at the end of the day
• keep communal areas clean and gardens neat and tidy
• order fuel, cleaning materials, new equipment and furniture as required
• take bookings if rooms in the building are available for hire
• prepare rooms for meetings or community use
• supervise other cleaning staff

Working environment

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

Your working environment may be physically active.

With experience, you could become a supervisor or move into facility services or cleaning management.

You could also work in related areas, for example commercial property maintenance or security, or as an accommodation warden with a housing association.