The Role: We are seeking a dependable and proactive Assistant Caretaker to join our Facilities Team at a Belfast-based college. This role is essential in helping maintain a clean, safe, secure, and weing environment that supports the intellectual, physical, emotional, and social development of pupils.
Working under the direction of the Facilities Manager, you will support the smooth day‑to‑day running of the school premises through care-taking, cleaning, porterage, basic maintenance, security, and grounds keeping duties.
Key Responsibilities
Facilities Maintenance
1. Perform daily and periodic cleaning of classrooms, corridors, toilets, offices, and external areas.
2. Carry out minor repairs to furniture, fixtures, and fittings.
3. Report damage, defects, or hazards promptly.
4. Ensure cleaning and maintenance equipment is used safely and maintained properly.
Security Duties
5. Act as a keyholder: unlocking/locking buildings and checking alarms.
6. Operate intruder and fire alarm systems; report faults.
7. Attend out‑of‑hours incidents such as break‑ins or vandalism.
8. Secure doors, windows, and gates daily.
9. Manage traffic and car parking during peak times and events.
10. Provide gatekeeper cover when required.
11. Control pedestrian and vehicle access to the school grounds.
12. Report suspicious activity or hazardous materials in line with school policy.
Mechanical & Electrical Support
13. Assist with heating/boiler system operation to support energy efficiency.
14. Replace lamps, tubes, and plugs (up to
15. Monitor and log utility usage.
16. Report faults in plant or firefighting equipment.
Grounds keeping
17. Carry out grass cutting, strimming, edging, and hedge trimming.
18. Apply weed control measures safely and in line with regulations.
19. Maintain paths, play areas, and car parks.
20. Clear leaves, apply grit/salt, and shovel snow during adverse weather.
21. Check and maintain ground equipment.
Cleaning Duties
22. Clean assigned areas and respond to reactive cleaning needs (spills, flooding, vandalism).
23. Keep external areas litter‑free.
24. Unblock drains/gullies (up to
25. Clean and disinfect refuse bins; empty litter bins daily.
26. Replenish hygiene supplies.
27. Clean external signage, lights, and noticeboards.
Porterage & Logistics
28. Move furniture and equipment for teaching, exams, and events.
29. Assist with setup for school functions (staging, AV, seating).
30. Transport pupils or items between school sites using the school’s 9‑seater vehicle.
31. Move refuse bins to/from collection points.
Health, Safety &pliance
32. Follow all school Health & Safety policies.
33. Use and store chemicals in line with COSHH.
34. Wear appropriate PPE.
35. Report risks or unsafe conditions immediately.
Driving Duties
36. Drive the school’s 9‑seater vehicle as required.
37. Transport staff and pupils safely, planning routes and stops.
38. Maintain the discipline and safety of passengers.
39. Conduct vehicle safety checks and report mechanical issues.
40. Wash vehicles when needed.
Working Environment
41. Work indoors and outdoors, including in adverse weather.
42. Perform physically demanding tasks such as lifting, bending, and working at height.
43. Maintain safe access routes and external areas.
Lone Working
44. Work independently during early mornings, evenings, and occasional weekends.
45. Follow long‑working procedures and risk assessments.
46. Demonstrate reliability and responsibility at all times.
Team Support & Flexibility
47. Work collaboratively with the Facilities Manager and care-taking team.
48. Support teaching and administrative staff when required.
49. Carry out other reasonable duties appropriate to the role and grade.
Why This Role Matters
The Assistant Caretaker helps ensure the school remains a safe, clean, and supportive environment where pupils can thrive. Your work directly contributes to the smooth running of the college and the wellbeing of everyone who uses the site.