Cleaning Operative

Role summary

This position is based at St James Quarter in Edinburgh and focuses on keeping the site clean, hygienic, safe, and well presented across both internal and external areas. The role supports planned and reactive cleaning activity so the venue continues to meet high standards for visitors, tenants, and staff. ABM places strong value on guest experience, service quality, and colleagues working together as one team.

Although the post is advertised for external waste and back-of-house presentation duties, there may be times when support is needed from the internal presentation team as well.

Working pattern and pay

You will work a 4 days on / 4 days off rota, averaging 38.5 hours per week. The pay rate is £13.55 per hour.

Key duties

• Help deliver clean, safe, and hygienic environments throughout the site.
• Support the cleaning presentation supervisors and deputy presentation manager with day-to-day operations.
• Work as an active and dependable member of the site team, contributing to service quality and guest experience.
• Carry out cleaning tasks with care, attention to detail, and pride in the standard of work.
• Maintain excellent housekeeping standards and remain flexible to changing operational needs.
• Recommend practical improvements and help deliver best practice in line with the cleaning specification and BICSc standards.
• Keep regular, open communication with supervisors and managers to improve operations and service levels.
• Represent the ABM FS brand positively while supporting service-related needs of the business.
• Look for ways to improve the guest experience through better presentation and site standards.
• Complete assigned cleaning duties, including deep-clean tasks, as directed by management and the cleaning schedule.
• Follow site health and safety procedures, including accident reporting and centre standards.
• Use cleaning machines and equipment correctly, complete pre-use checks, and clean and charge equipment after use.
• Use chemicals safely and correctly in line with COSHH requirements, and store materials properly.
• Monitor and order consumables and materials while keeping stock levels in check and aiming for best value.
• Provide daily updates on completed work, issues encountered, and possible improvements.
• Dress neatly and maintain a professional appearance while representing the site and brand.
• Carry out any other reasonable tasks needed to support the business.

Requirements

• Previous cleaning experience.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work well as part of a team.
• Good organisation and a strong eye for detail.
• Self-motivated approach with the ability to take initiative.
• Confidence to work without supervision and take responsibility.
• Awareness of COSHH and health and safety practices.
• A driving licence is preferred for operating the electric tug and car park cleaning machine.

Benefits

• 24/7 GP access for you and your immediate family through a UK-based service.
• Mental health support and counselling for life events.
• Get Fit programme.
• Financial and legal support.
• Cycle to work scheme.
• Access to the Perks at Work employee app with discounts, gift cards, cashback, and special offers.
• Support resources on family, wellbeing, money, and work topics.
• Urgent crisis support by online chat or telephone.

About ABM

ABM is a global provider of integrated facilities, engineering, and infrastructure services. Its teams help create cleaner, safer, and more efficient environments for more than 100,000 people across a range of sectors including commercial real estate, aviation, mission critical operations, and manufacturing and distribution. The company has a blue-chip client base, significant annual revenue, and a strong focus on innovation, sustainability, and connected spaces.

Additional information

The company states that it is committed to fair employment practices and inclusion, regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, sex, marriage and civil partnership status, pregnancy and maternity status, race, religion, or belief. ABM is also a member of the Armed Forces Covenant Employer Recognition Scheme.