The Corporate Services team provides a wide range of services to both UK based and locally engaged staff. It is responsible for the efficient running of the Canada Network and provides all the support services needed for its day-to-day operation. The Canada Network is comprised of the British High Commission in Ottawa and Consulate Generals in Toronto, Montreal, Calgary and Vancouver.

The Estates team is responsible for the day to day management and running of the UK’s estate in Canada including all maintenance, repair or servicing of existing residential and commercial buildings, including their components and equipment. Ensuring compliance with policy and guidelines on Estate standards, implementing Estates Operations maintenance projects and ensuring fixed and variable maintenance work
is carried out.

Maintenance officers are responsible for the upkeep of the FCDO estate in Ottawa which includes a new state of the art office building, Heritage Residence and staff residential properties. They deliver reactive and planned day-to-day maintenance and repairs and regular H and S and security works. Providing a professional service on all aspects of property and construction in respect of the FCDO’s building assets.

The purpose of the job is to be responsible for the delivery of a customer focused preventative and reactive maintenance service. Proactively engaging with occupants and staff members to provide support, advice and interventions to ensure that properties are effectively maintained, all repairs are undertaken promptly and to high standards, contractors are monitored and supervised ensuring performance targets and high levels of customer satisfaction is achieved with a strong focus on delivering Health and Safety standards.

This position requires varied technical skills in the performance of commercial and residential building maintenance tasks, including, but not limited to:

• Minor plumbing, drywall and electrical repairs, handset and lock changes, grouting, painting and other general handyman assignments
• Operating, monitoring, troubleshooting and performing routine maintenance on building systems, such as air conditioning, ventilation, heating, air compressors, pumping systems, water treatment, security, fire system, electrical, controls systems, plumbing systems, etc.
• Perform preventative and reactive maintenance tasks in residential accommodation and office suites and in common areas
• Respond to emergencies during business hours and after hour’s services, as required.
• Respond to service request and complete work orders efficiently and safely.
• Purchase materials and reconcile credit card transactions following FCDO finance guidance
• Continuously update tracking system using Microsoft Excel and Property Management Software
• Co-ordinate work with trades and specialists when it is necessary
• Complete job/task specific risk assessments
• Assist the Estates Manager in the preparation of appropriate Tender & Contract Documentation
• To ensure that all repairs and contracts are commenced and completed in accordance with agreed programmes and within budget
• To ensure that the quality of work by contractors appointed for maintenance and service contracts is of the highest standard and complies with the British High Commission’s requirements
• Communicate effectively with internal and external stakeholders. Liaise with residents, key stakeholders and other departments directly affected by estates activities to ensure that they are fully aware of the initial proposals and any variations instructed during the course of the works
• To carry out change of occupancy remedial works, co-ordinate and supervise all necessary remedial works to return properties to a condition suitable for new occupants.
• Manage and report on performance against departmental targets for all repairs and contractors
• Report on the performance of all Contractors and Consultants against set criteria and to agree with the Estates Manager any direct action to be taken in the event of unsatisfactory performance
• Contribute to the development and regular review of departmental services and policies, ensuring that these are consistent, compliant with statute and regulation and reflect best practice.
• To behave in a manner consistent with organisational values and service standards, ensuring there is a commitment to a customer focussed service and high quality. Represent the British High Commission Corporate Services Team in a professional way, consistent with standing policies and direction from the Corporate Services Charter.
• Manage operational relationships with contractors and consultants
• Other activities as directed

• This position requires varied technical skills in the performance of commercial and residential building maintenance tasks. You must have previous experience and skills in performing general building repairs, or have recently received training, so you are capable of completing tasks such as minor plumbing, drywall, electrical, mechanical, handset and lock changes, painting and other general handy person assignments.
• Excellent customer service and communication skills
• Ability to multitask and prioritize while working under pressure within deadline parameters
• Problem solving skills
• Physical ability to carry out the duties of a maintenance technician (e.g. lifting up to 40lbs.)
• Good written and verbal communication skills
• Strong inter-personal skills with the ability to liaise effectively with internal and external clients
• Must have strong computer literacy; ability to use smartphone, tablet, MS Outlook, MS Word, MS Excel
• Ability and desire to learn
• Delivery oriented
• A valid driver’s license with ability to drive the High Commission’s vehicle
• fluency in written and spoken English