General Operative

Role overview

This full-time General Operative position supports Mears Group PLC’s Planned and Retrofit branch in Eastbourne and Lewes. The role sits within a social housing retrofit programme and is designed to help deliver improvement works that raise property standards, improve energy efficiency, and support local communities. The salary is up to £36,000 per year, with a company van and fuel card included. The working pattern is 42.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday.

What you’ll do

You’ll help keep retrofit works running smoothly by carrying out general site duties, supporting trades, and maintaining a safe, tidy, and well-organised working environment. The role also involves direct customer interaction, clear communication throughout the works journey, and a focus on completing tasks right first time, on budget, and within agreed timeframes.

• Prepare the site and tidy the site office and work areas at the end of tasks
• Remove waste and debris from the site safely
• Move and manage materials efficiently and with care
• Assist qualified tradespeople on retrofit-related tasks
• Carry out minor repair and maintenance duties that support the retrofit programme
• Work in line with health and safety requirements at all times
• Keep standards high and pay close attention to detail
• Work closely with colleagues so deadlines are achieved
• Escalate problems or concerns to the site supervisor without delay
• Attend site meetings and contribute ideas for improving delivery
• Take ownership of assigned work and support planned works delivery with a right-first-time approach
• Provide consistently strong customer care
• Work safely at height when required

Candidate requirements

Applicants should already have experience in the duties listed above, along with the ability to carry out manual work such as lifting, standing, bending, and repetitive activity. A full UK driving licence is required, and knowledge of PAS 2035 domestic retrofit and asbestos awareness are also needed.

Benefits and extras

• 25 days of annual leave plus bank holidays
• Company van, fuel card, and uniform
• Annual Mears Fun Day as a thank-you event for employees
• Paid volunteering leave to support community activity
• Access to Mears Rewards discounts, including savings on groceries, holidays, eye test vouchers, a share save scheme, and more
• Family-friendly policies

Important conditions

All applicants must have the right to work in the UK, as visa sponsorship is not available for this role. To drive a company vehicle, you must be over 21 years old, have held your licence for at least 3 months, and have fewer than 9 penalty points. Employment is also subject to relevant background, identity, and security checks before you start.

Inclusion and support

Mears Group states that it is a Disability Confident employer committed to an inclusive workplace where individual differences are valued and equal opportunities are promoted. The organisation also supports the Armed Forces Covenant and holds recognition for its work with veterans and service leavers. Applicants may optionally share background information during the hiring process to help improve social mobility; this information is voluntary and will not affect the application outcome.

Application contact

For further discussion about the role or application process, the contact provided is Laura Bourne.