Premises Assistant

Role Overview

Essex County Council is looking for a dedicated Premises Assistant to join the Adult Community Learning (ACL) team, offering lifelong educational opportunities to Essex residents, particularly focusing on underserved communities. This permanent, full-time role is based in Chelmsford, with potential travel to Witham and Maldon sites.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage security by locking/unlocking buildings, acting as emergency key-holder, responding to out-of-hours calls, and handling alarms.
• Perform caretaking and cleaning duties to maintain a clean and safe environment for staff, learners, and visitors, meeting prescribed standards.
• Set up rooms and provide teaching aids as per tutor and visitor bookings.
• Organize and participate in emergency evacuation drills following Health & Safety regulations.
• Prevent unauthorized site and vehicle access within established policies.
• Greet and assist visitors, colleagues, and contractors warmly and professionally.
• Maintain and annually review an inventory of equipment; perform testing and checks on electrical devices.
• Carry out Health and Safety Risk Assessments on site and ensure compliance with policies and procedures.
• Monitor contractors to ensure their work adheres to specifications and safety protocols.
• Maintain the grounds by mowing, weed clearing, litter removal, keeping drains clear, and ensuring accessibility in all weather conditions.
• Maintain records, perform administrative tasks, and support IT communications.
• Manage stock, place orders, and oversee deliveries for cleaning materials and other supplies.
• Complete first-line repairs and maintenance as per maintenance plans for efficient resource use.
• Meet individual and team goals defined in the performance management framework.

Working Hours and Location

The position follows a fixed work schedule:

• Monday: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM
• Tuesday: 2:00 PM – 10:00 PM
• Wednesday: 2:00 PM – 10:00 PM
• Thursday: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM
• Friday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Flexibility may be required to switch to daytime hours during school non-term periods. The role is primarily based at ACL Chelmsford with possible coverage at Witham or Maldon locations.

Candidate Requirements

• Education equivalent to RQF level 2 (GCSE) or suitable relevant work experience.
• Eagerness to learn new skills through on-the-job training and personal development.
• Proactive problem-solving attitude with a practical approach to challenges.
• Hands-on experience in cleaning, caretaking, or maintenance activities.
• Good knowledge of Health & Safety standards including manual handling to ensure safety for self and others.
• Familiarity with basic IT applications such as email, Teams, and general administrative software.
• Good interpersonal skills with a friendly demeanor and ability to communicate effectively to visitors and colleagues.
• Must hold a valid driving license and have access to a vehicle or alternative mobility means to cover travel between sites.

Additional Information

Applicants must have an unrestricted right to work in the UK, as visa sponsorship is not offered. The role requires mobility throughout the work areas. Essex County Council is an inclusive employer committed to equal opportunities and supporting disabled applicants, veterans, and care leavers through guaranteed interview schemes if minimum job criteria are met.

Employees will benefit from flexible working arrangements, support for unpaid carers, and access to a range of employee benefits. Upon commencement, roles requiring DBS clearance must register with the DBS update service to maintain ongoing certification.

Essex County Council upholds the Nolan principles of integrity and ethical standards in the workplace. The council also emphasizes safeguarding children and vulnerable adults as part of its duties.

For those interested in additional career opportunities and council updates, joining the Essex Talent Community is encouraged.