Maintenance Operative

Company: Sykes Cottages
Apply for the Maintenance Operative
Location: Salcombe
Job Description:

Join the Coast and Country Cottages team – Creating special memories in Devon

  • Salary: Up to £26,000 per annum
  • Working Hours: 37.5 per week, 9am until 5:30pm
  • Days of Work: 5 days – Monday to Saturday with a day off in the week (requirement to work every Saturday)
  • Location: Our friendly Coast and Country Cottages, Salcombe team

About the Role

We’re looking for a skilled and hands‑on Maintenance Operative to join our team. You’ll be the go‑to person for tackling property repairs, carrying out routine maintenance, and responding quickly to any issues during a guest’s stay. Working closely with property owners, guests, and contractors, you’ll help keep every property safe, functional, and looking its best.

As part of the team, you’ll also join our on‑call rota covering an out‑of‑hours emergency phone with additional payment provided for this duty. Due to the travel included, access to a car and valid driving licence is essential.

What You’ll Do

  • Respond quickly to guest maintenance requests with effective solutions
  • Carry out repairs, routine upkeep, and seasonal adjustments (heating, hot water, etc)
  • Liaise with contractors for specialist work
  • Complete regular property inspections and log via our KEA system
  • Communicate clearly with owners and guests, in person and by phone
  • Assist with property quality checks alongside the QA team
  • Keep the company vehicle maintained, stocked, and ready
  • Support winter projects such as decorating and refurbishments
  • Arrange refuse collections as required
  • Follow all Health & Safety and company policies
  • Submit expenses promptly via Concur

What You’ll Bring

  • General maintenance knowledge plus at least one trade skill (carpentry, plumbing, electrics, painting/decorating)
  • Full, clean driving licence
  • Able to work independently and stay calm in emergencies
  • Strong problem‑solving skills and attention to detail
  • Clear communicator with guests and owners
  • Basic IT skills for reporting and inventory management

Bonus Points

Professional trade qualifications, experience in building systems (boilers, alarms), local area knowledge, holiday let or hospitality experience, or familiarity with Health & Safety standards in holiday accommodation.

Why You’ll Love Working With Us

At Coast and Country Cottages & Sykes, we believe in doing right by our people.

  • Annual bonus scheme linked to company performance
  • Generous holiday allowance + extra days with long service
  • Option to purchase extra holiday days if you wish
  • A day off for your birthday
  • 2 volunteering days per year
  • Enhanced parental leave (24 weeks maternity, 3 weeks paternity at full pay)
  • Pension scheme with employer contributions
  • Discounted and last‑minute stays at Forest Holidays and Sykes Cottages for you, your friends & family
  • Special offers and discounts designed to enhance your overall wellbeing
  • Health cash plan & life assurance
  • Training & development opportunities
  • 24/7 mental health support
  • Employee savings scheme
  • Long service awards and company events

Apply Now

Become a key part of keeping our properties guest‑ready, safe, and welcoming – making every stay a memorable one.

We’re all about diversity, inclusion, and bringing your authentic self to work. Need adjustments for the recruitment process? Just ask, our team is happy to help.

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Posted: July 13th, 2026