Cleaner

Job Overview

The Cleaner will work under the supervision of the Cleaning Supervisor or another designated person, performing cleaning duties as part of a team. The role involves cleaning any assigned areas within the premises, following directions from the line manager.

Key Responsibilities

• Use appropriate equipment and techniques to sweep, suction clean, mop, dry buff, spray clean, spray wax, machine scrub and dry, strip and re-polish floors.
• Clean and remove stains from carpets and matting using suitable methods.
• Maintain cleanliness of toilet and shower areas, including all fixtures and fittings.
• Wash and dust ledges, walls, fixtures, fittings, and internal surfaces up to 3.35 meters high, including furniture polishing where appropriate.
• Empty internal litter bins, clean them, and remove litter to designated disposal points.

General Conditions

• Perform duties in compliance with relevant legislation including the Health and Safety at Work (NI) Order 1978, COSHH Regulations, and applicable Codes of Practice.
• Wear assigned protective clothing or uniforms and flat-soled enclosed-toe footwear during cleaning tasks.
• Handle assigned cleaning equipment carefully, reporting any defects without delay.
• Complete all necessary paperwork accurately.
• Cover for absent colleagues as needed following Education Authority procedures.
• Tasks may include duties up to the grade level of the position, within the employee's competence.

Training and Development

• Participate in required induction and refresher training to maintain safety and effectiveness in cleaning tasks.
• Accept additional training for responsibilities of a higher grade when requested; payment applies only to work at that higher grade.

Statutory and Organizational Requirements

The role complies with the Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups (NI) Order 2007, requiring an enhanced criminal record check undertaken at the applicant's cost (£33 currently).

Candidate Specification and Selection Process

Applicants must clearly demonstrate how they meet both essential and desirable criteria on their application form. Shortlisting will be based on essential criteria related to experience, skills, and understanding of cleaning practices and safety.

Essential interview criteria include knowledge of school cleaning requirements, cleaning methods and machinery, health and safety and COSHH regulations. Skills assessed include initiative, communication in English, organizational ability, teamwork, and flexibility.

Desirable criteria (for shortlisting if needed) include at least three months’ cleaning experience outside the home and experience with commercial cleaning equipment like buffing machines.

Equality and Values

The Education Authority is committed to equality of opportunity and values that promote service excellence, removing barriers so all children and young people have equal access to education.