Cleaning Operative (2025/GK085)

Job Introduction

East Durham College is seeking a reliable and hardworking Cleaning Operative to join our Estates and Facilities team at the Peterlee Campus.

This role plays an important part in ensuring our learning and working environments are clean, safe, and welcoming for students, staff, and visitors.

About the role

The successful candidate will be responsible for maintaining high standards of cleanliness across a range of College facilities, including classrooms, corridors, toilets, staircases, and kitchen areas. Duties will include routine and deep cleaning tasks, waste management, and replenishment of cleaning supplies, all carried out in line with health and safety requirements.

You will work under the direction of the Leading Hand Cleaner and Soft Services Supervisor and may occasionally be required to support other East Durham College sites.

What we’re looking for

We are looking for someone who:

• Has recent and relevant experience in a cleaning role
• Takes pride in their work and maintains high standards of cleanliness
• Is reliable, punctual, and flexible
• Can work both independently and as part of a team
• Has good communication skills and a positive, “can‑do” attitude
• Is physically able to carry out cleaning duties

Relevant cleaning qualifications are desirable but not essential.

What we offer

• A supportive and inclusive working environment
• Uniform and relevant PPE provided
• Access to training and development opportunities
• Participation in the College’s Performance Appraisal and Development Programme

Please note: An enhanced DBS check is required for this role.

What we offer: 

• LGPS Pension Scheme with up to 17.5% employer contributions. 
• Access to a Cash Healthcare Plan. 
• Heavily discounted Gym Membership.
• Enhanced Maternity/ Paternity and Adoption leave. 
• 3 days paid emergency leave per year.
• Various Paid and unpaid leave for other needs.
• Funded Continuous Professional Development (CPD) where appropriate.
• Onsite restaurant, Canteen and Hair and Beauty Salon.
• Free onsite parking.
• On site Nursery facilities (up to 5 yoa).
• Cycle to work scheme and much more.
• Access to free Beamish Tickets. 

Join Our Team at East Durham College

Now is the perfect time to become part of our fantastic team at East Durham College! With recent investments enhancing our already outstanding teaching facilities and further development on the horizon, the College offers an excellent environment for both staff and students. We take pride in providing access to education for all, offering clear pathways through various stages of learning with a strong focus on employment opportunities across the North East region. We’re also thrilled to have earned our fifth consecutive ‘GOOD’ rating from Ofsted.

East Durham College operates across three campuses, delivering a wide range of courses from general further education and A-Levels to specialist land-based and technical programs, ensuring there is something for everyone. As a team member, you’ll enjoy a generous holiday entitlement, Local Government or Teachers Pensions, free gym access (Willerby Grove Campus), free parking, and much more.

We are committed to creating a diverse, inclusive community where everyone can be themselves and succeed. We encourage qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply and join our dynamic workforce.

As part of our commitment to equality and diversity, East Durham College operates a Guaranteed Interview Scheme for applicants who meet the essential criteria, as part of our status as a Disability Confident Employer.

At East Durham College, we uphold Safer Recruitment and Keeping Children Safe in Education standards. This role requires an enhanced DBS check. It is an offence to apply for the role if the applicant is barred from engaging in regulated activity relevant to children. 

For more information about the College, please visit our Creating outstanding futures | East Durham College.

Artificial intelligence

Artificial intelligence can be a useful tool to support your application, however, all examples and statements provided must be truthful, factually accurate and taken directly from your own experience. Where plagiarism has been identified (presenting the ideas and experiences of others, or generated by artificial intelligence, as your own) applications may be withdrawn and internal candidates may be subject to disciplinary action.