Planned & Responsive maintenance
We’re the number one provider of planned and responsive maintenance services in the UK social housing sector. Our reputation for customer service is second to none.
We’re the number one provider of planned and responsive maintenance services in the UK social housing sector. Our reputation for customer service is second to none.

Building a thriving career
At Wates, people always come first. You’ll be part of a brilliant team, in a successful company with a proven track record. We’ve been operating for over 125 years and have the values and ethos of the Wates family behind us. Join us and we’ll make sure you – and your career – thrive.
Our work covers responsive repairs, voids, healthy homes and planned maintenance in social housing, for both housing associations and local authorities. We also run facilities management services across the UK for private and public sector clients.
We offer a huge range of opportunities, from trades to employees. For example, a Scheduler, Admin, Supervisor, Operations Manager, Divisional Director. There are also supporting roles like HR Advisor, Business Partners, Safety Team, Commercial team, Finance team, and our IT team.
At Wates, we value our employees. We also believe in ‘growing our own’. That means we’ll give you every opportunity to take that next step on the ladder. You’ll find no better place to build your career.

You’ll thrive at Wates
Whether you have sector experience, want to change career, or returning to work after a break, we’d love to hear from you.
We’re looking to recruit people with a ‘can do’ attitude, who are reliable and genuine team players. Someone who has an honest, thorough, and flexible approach to work. When it comes to transferable skills, problem solving, and commercial awareness would be useful. You should also understand reports, both reading and putting them together.
Risk management is another key area, and an ability to work independently and manage your own time. Good timekeeping is vital, as is an open and positive attitude. You should be able to quickly identify issues, ask for support when needed, and work together as a team to fix them.
Testimonials
Project Manager
"I joined Wates in 2014 as part of an acquisition and really wasn’t sure what to expect. From day one I felt supported and encouraged to develop my career within the Repairs and Maintenance business. I have had opportunities to mobilise new contracts, taken a role as Contracts Manager on one of these contract-wins, and progressed to the position of Customer Service Manager for a Responsive Maintenance Division in the Midlands. I continue to develop my skills and grow within my career. Recently I started a new role as a Mobilisation Project Manager and have been able to expand my knowledge even further working within our FM business. Wates has always recognised my abilities, determination, and passion to succeed, and continues to support my aspirations and career development.”
Multi Trader
Location: Hammersmith
Job Type: Trades and Labour
Application Deadline: 09-02-2026
📍 Based in Hammersmith🔨 Multi Trader – (Responsive Maintenance)Make an Impact with WPS – Supporting Communities Through Quality MaintenanceWPS is looking for a skilled Multi Trader to join our Responsive Maintenance team, operating from our Hammersmith office. In this role, you’ll provide essential reactive maintenance services to residents as part of a social housing contract, helping us maintain safe and comfortable homes.🔧 Your Role Perform repairs and renewals across a variety of properties. Identify when additional trades are required and communicate with your Supervisor. Work independently or as part of a team to complete tasks efficiently. Accurately complete daily work sheets, noting tasks and materials used. Ensure all work is completed to a high standard and within set timeframes.🚗 What We’re Looking For A full UK driving licence is essential. NVQ L2 qualification in a relevant trade. Solid experience in multi-trade work. High standards of workmanship and productivity. Strong communication and problem-solving abilities. A customer-focused approach and ability to meet deadlines.💬 Why Choose WPS?At WPS, we’re more than just a maintenance provider—we’re community builders. You’ll be part of a supportive, skilled team that values your contribution and encourages your growth. Join us in making a real difference in people’s lives.Ready to make an impact? Apply now and help us deliver quality maintenance services that truly matter.Given the nature of this position, you will need to undergo a Standard Disclosure and Barring Service Check (DBS) at offer stage. Applicants with criminal convictions will be assessed individually, and we assure you that we do not discriminate based on an applicant's criminal record or the details of any disclosed offenses. Additionally, certain roles may be subject to additional pre-employment checks. To learn more about the checks included in this process, please click on the following link: National Security Vetting
Supervisor
Location: Finsbury Park
Job Type: Trades and Labour
Application Deadline: 09-02-2026
🌟 We're Hiring: Supervisor 🌟📍 Location: Finsbury Park💰 Salary: Competitive🏢 Contract Type: Full-timeAre you a natural leader with a passion for delivering high-quality maintenance services? Do you thrive in a fast-paced environment and know how to get the best out of your team? If so, we want to hear from you!🔧 About the RoleWe’re looking for a Supervisor with a strong background in responsive repairs, who has a proven track record of managing operatives and delivering excellent service. In this role, you’ll support the Project Lead and manage a team of administrators, operatives, and subcontractors across workstreams including Voids, Disrepair, Day-to-Day Repairs, and Planned Works.You’ll drive performance, ensure service excellence, and uphold high standards of customer satisfaction. You’ll also step up to lead the contract when required—making this a fantastic opportunity for someone looking to grow into a senior leadership role.🗂️ Key Responsibilities• Lead and support your team to meet KPIs and service standards• Manage scheduling, inspections, and quality control• Conduct 1-2-1s, toolbox talks, and team meetings• Liaise with clients and produce performance reports• Oversee health & safety, ensuring compliance across all activities• Support onboarding, training, and development of staff🎯 What We’re Looking For• Background in responsive repairs with experience managing operatives• Strong leadership and communication skills• Solid understanding and competency in Health & Safety• Minimum SSSTS qualification, with SMSTS or IOSH preferred• Trade-related certifications (e.g., Asbestos Awareness, Scaffold Inspections)• Experience in housing maintenance and site management• Commercial awareness and ability to manage budgets• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and report writing• A proactive, supportive, and assertive approach• Must hold a valid UK driving licence🚀 Why Join Us?• Be part of a dynamic and supportive team• Opportunity for progression to Senior Supervisor or Contract/Operations Manager• Make a real impact in your community• Work in a collaborative environment where your ideas matter📩 Ready to Apply?If you're ready to take the next step in your career and lead with purpose, apply today and help us build better communities—one repair at a time.Given the nature of this position, you will need to undergo a Standard Disclosure and Barring Service Check (DBS) at offer stage. Applicants with criminal convictions will be assessed individually, and we assure you that we do not discriminate based on an applicant's criminal record or the details of any disclosed offenses. Additionally, certain roles may be subject to additional pre-employment checks. To learn more about the checks included in this process, please click on the following link: National Security Vetting
Multi Skilled Plasterer
Location: Barnsley
Job Type: Trades and Labour
Application Deadline: 05-02-2026
WPS are looking for a skilled and reliable Multi‑Skilled Plasterer to join our Responsive Maintenance team, delivering high‑quality repairs and maintenance works to social housing properties across Barnsley and nearby areas. You will play a key role in achieving first‑time fixes, maintaining high workmanship standards, and providing excellent customer service to residents.Key Responsibilities Carry out plastering works including patch repairs and full‑wall replastering. Undertake additional multi‑trade tasks where required, such as minor joinery, tiling, or decorating (in line with responsive maintenance needs). Work efficiently to complete all tasks to a high standard and within agreed timescales. Use a PDA/handheld device to receive jobs and submit work details. Liaise with supervisors and schedulers where follow‑on work is required. Ensure all work is completed safely and in line with industry and company Health & Safety standards. Provide excellent service to residents, colleagues, and client representatives.Minimum Requirements NVQ Level 2 in Plastering (essential). Proven experience working within social housing or a similar maintenance environment. Full UK driving licence (company vehicle provided). Ability to deliver high‑quality workmanship across plastering and other associated trades. Strong customer‑service skills and a professional attitude.What We Offer Competitive salary Company vehicle + fuel card 22 days annual leave + bank holidays (or client equivalent) Pension scheme Training and development opportunities to support your career progression Supportive team environment within a leading provider of social housing maintenance servicesGiven the nature of this position, you will need to undergo a Basic Disclosure and Barring Service Check (DBS) at offer stage. Applicants with criminal convictions will be assessed individually, and we assure you that we do not discriminate based on an applicant's criminal record or the details of any disclosed offenses. Additionally, certain roles may be subject to additional pre-employment checks. To learn more about the checks included in this process, please click on the following link: National Security Vetting
Painter / Multi trader
Location: Barnsley
Job Type: Trades and Labour
Application Deadline: 05-02-2026
Fixed‑Term, 12 MonthsHere at Wates, we are proud to support the communities we serve and we’re pleased to offer a fantastic opportunity for a skilled Multitrade Operative / Painter to join our Responsive Maintenance Team in the Barnsley area.This is an excellent chance to play a key role in delivering high‑quality repairs and painting works within social housing properties, ensuring residents receive a safe, efficient and customer‑focused service every time.About the RoleWorking as part of our busy Responsive Maintenance team, you will undertake a variety of painting, decorating, and minor multi‑trade repairs to achieve a first‑time fix wherever possible. You’ll take pride in producing quality workmanship and representing Wates in a professional and customer‑focused manner.Key Responsibilities Carry out high‑quality interior and exterior painting and decorating, ensuring excellent finish and preparation standards. Undertake minor multi‑trade repairs where required, such as patch plastering, basic joinery, sealing, or small remedial works, in line with responsive maintenance needs. Complete all allocated jobs using a PDA, including recording materials used and updates on progress. Work both independently and collaboratively with other operatives to complete works efficiently. Deliver a professional and respectful customer experience at every visit. Adhere to Wates Health & Safety Professional Standards and safeguarding commitments at all times. Maintain productivity and high‑quality workmanship across all tasks.What We’re Looking ForWe’d love to hear from you if you can demonstrate: NVQ Level 2 (essential) — preferably in Painting & Decorating or a related trade. Proven experience in a social housing responsive repairs environment. Strong painting and decorating skills with excellent attention to detail. Ability to undertake basic multi‑trade tasks confidently. A problem‑solving mindset and the ability to work to deadlines. A full UK driving licence (company van provided for business use).What We OfferYou’ll be joining a supportive, friendly team within one of the UK’s leading providers of social housing maintenance services. As part of Wates, you’ll benefit from: Competitive salary Corporate benefits including pension and health & wellbeing programmes Excellent learning and development opportunities A company vehicle for business use The chance to progress your career within a respected national organisationGiven the nature of this position, you will need to undergo a Basic Disclosure and Barring Service Check (DBS) at offer stage. Applicants with criminal convictions will be assessed individually, and we assure you that we do not discriminate based on an applicant's criminal record or the details of any disclosed offenses. Additionally, certain roles may be subject to additional pre-employment checks. To learn more about the checks included in this process, please click on the following link: National Security Vetting