General Operative/Handyperson

Role overview

This is an on-site opportunity for a General Handy Person at HMYOI Drake Hall, a women’s prison and young offender institution with a strong rehabilitation focus. The post sits within a small, supportive facilities team where the work directly contributes to safe, reliable and well-maintained operations across the site.

You will be part of a stable, purpose-led environment, helping to deliver planned and reactive maintenance to a high standard while supporting the wider facilities function.

Working pattern and pay

The role is based on 39 hours per week, typically from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. The rota runs across seven days because weekend coverage is required. There is an optional 1-in-3 weekend rota that comes with an extra 15% allowance on top of base pay; taking part is voluntary and not compulsory.

The annual salary is £27,426.

What you will do

• Work with the site team to complete general maintenance tasks and support tradespeople where needed.
• Carry out a range of facilities management duties as instructed by the line manager.
• Help maintain strong health and safety standards across the contract.
• Support local and organisational initiatives aimed at reducing carbon and improving sustainability.

What the employer offers

You will join a friendly team with different levels of experience, creating a good environment to learn, develop and build your career. The organisation works on long-term contracts, offering stability and the chance to plan ahead.

• Competitive annual pay with potential yearly reviews.
• Career progression opportunities.
• Access to training, including fully funded leadership development.
• At least 24 days of annual leave plus bank holidays, with the option to buy more.
• Pension scheme with additional employer contributions.
• Flexible benefits, including insurance options, Cycle2Work and discounted gym membership.
• Online discounts from retailers, healthcare providers and other partners.
• Two Social Impact Days per year for volunteering and fundraising.
• Family-friendly policies for new parents and carers.
• Access to Affinity Networks that support diverse communities within the organisation.

Requirements

• Practical experience in DIY or general building maintenance.
• Relevant CITB certification or an equivalent qualification.
• Willingness to learn additional skills.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team.
• Full UK driving licence and access to a personal vehicle, as public transport options to the site are limited.
• Ability to obtain prison security clearance, with support provided through the process.

Additional information

The employer supports a justice-sector client by helping deliver safe, clean and efficient prison environments across a large estate in England and Wales. The organisation values diversity and welcomes applications from candidates from all backgrounds.

Applicants who meet the minimum requirements and have a disability are guaranteed an interview as part of the organisation’s disability confident commitment.

The recruitment team can provide support with access needs, reasonable adjustments or other recruitment-related help.

This vacancy may close early if enough applications are received, so early application is encouraged.

About the employer

The employer is a global infrastructure consultancy and operations partner focused on designing, delivering, protecting and maintaining critical assets and systems. Its work spans civic, transport and defence sectors, combining strategic insight, engineering, finance and operational expertise to produce secure, resilient and compliant outcomes.

Inspiring impact together.