Building Maintenance Operative
Great Yorkshire Showground, Harrogate
Monday-Friday, 8:00am-4:30pm (flexibility required)
Facilities Department
Reporting to: Facilities Manager
About Us
The Yorkshire Agricultural Society, founded in 1837, champions farming, the countryside, and food production-especially inspiring children and young people to understand where their food comes from.
We are proud hosts of the Great Yorkshire Show, one of the UK's most prestigious agricultural events. Each July, over 140,000 visitors and 8,500 animals gather at the Great Yorkshire Showground, making it a vibrant and unique place to work. Preparing for the Show takes months of dedicated effort and teamwork to ensure the site is presented in pristine condition.
The Role
We are looking for a practical, reliable Building Maintenance Operative to join our friendly Facilities team. You'll carry out a wide range of planned and reactive maintenance tasks across buildings and external areas, helping to keep our multi-acre site safe, functional, and well maintained.
This is a hands-on role that also involves leading a small team of temporary staff during the build-up to the Great Yorkshire Show, so flexibility and a positive, can-do attitude are essential.
Key Responsibilities
* Carry out general building maintenance including basic carpentry, plumbing, painting, plastering, and minor electrical works (where qualified)
* Undertake routine inspections and respond to reactive maintenance issues
* Maintain external areas such as paths, fences, walls, and grounds
* Safely use hand tools, power tools, and maintenance equipment
* Operate machinery including pressure washers, floor scrubbers, and lawn equipment (training provided if required)
* Lead and supervise temporary staff during peak periods, ensuring work is completed safely and efficiently
* Liaise with contractors and internal teams as needed
* Keep accurate records of work completed and materials used
* Work in line with all health & safety regulations and procedures
Great Yorkshire Show Commitment
In the run-up to the Great Yorkshire Show (second week of July), flexible working is essential. This includes early starts, late finishes, weekend working, and overtime. Holidays are not normally permitted in the six weeks prior to the Show.
What We're Looking For
Essential:
* Experience in building maintenance, facilities, or a similar role
* Practical knowledge of general maintenance tasks
* Ability to work independently and manage workload effectively
* Good understanding of health & safety practices
* Basic literacy and numeracy skills
* Reliable, punctual, and professional
Desirable:
* Relevant trade qualifications or certifications
* Experience operating machinery or mechanical equipment
* First Aid, manual handling, or health & safety training
* Experience in commercial, residential, or public-sector buildings
Personal Attributes
* Friendly, polite, and approachable
* Strong communication skills
* Practical, hands-on problem solver
* Able to work to tight deadlines and juggle priorities
* Flexible and open to change
* Maintains confidentiality and professionalism at all times
What We Offer
* A supportive, close-knit Facilities team including skilled tradespeople
* Full training where required (including Fork Lift Truck and Telehandler)
* Company van for work-related use
* Tools and equipment provided
* A unique working environment at one of the UK's most iconic event venues
Performance will be reviewed after a 6-month probationary period and annually thereafter.