The hiring process


Our recruitment process has several stages, including initial screenings, interviews, and skills assessments. This is so we can evaluate each applicant’s qualifications and fit with our company culture in a fair and transparent way. We promise all our applicants a positive experience throughout, reflecting our supportive and inclusive work environment.

Image representing employee recognition and care: "We value and care for our people with great pay and flexible benefits"

Our hiring process

Your recruitment journey with us

There is a huge range of jobs at Wates. See and apply for job opportunities.

  • To apply for a job, complete an application and submit your CV online. Instructions on how to apply are provided for each vacancy.  
  • We’ve designed our online application forms to be accessible and can provide alternative formats upon request.
  • The recruitment team will review your application against the job criteria and share a shortlist with the hiring manager.

You can apply for an early careers programme here.

Application: Our online application forms are designed to be accessible, and we can provide alternative formats upon request.

Interview: We are dedicated to making reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process. If you require any adjustments, please inform our recruitment team in advance and we will work with you to ensure a smooth process.

Outcome: Offer details will include salary and benefits to be offered, however, any offer of employment would be conditional on you providing satisfactory evidence to us that you have the right to work in the UK.

Onboarding: Our onboarding process is designed to be flexible, ensuring a smooth transition for all new team members.
a man smiling because Wates is Disability Confident

Reasonable adjustments

Some candidates may need us to adjust the recruitment process due to a disability. This helps ensure that we are fair and consistent and that everyone has the chance to do well.

You can tell us if you require reasonable adjustments when you apply.

Search our latest jobs today

Administrator

Location: Swadlincote

Job Type: Clerical & Administration

Application Deadline: 25-02-2026

WPS Responsive is looking for an Administrator to join our team based in Swadlincote. This is an office‑based role supporting the delivery of responsive maintenance services within the social housing sector.You will provide essential administrative support to the wider operational team, helping ensure the smooth day‑to‑day running of the contract and maintaining accurate records and systems.Key responsibilities Provide general administrative support to the Responsive Maintenance team Manage and maintain trackers, spreadsheets, and contract documentation Update internal systems and databases accurately and in a timely manner Support site teams and management with day‑to‑day administration Handle incoming calls, emails, and queries professionally Assist with reporting, data input, and document control Carry out general office administration duties as requiredEssential requirements Previous administration experience – essential Strong Microsoft Office skills, particularly Excel, Outlook, and Word Good organisational skills with strong attention to detail Confident communicator, both written and verbal Ability to manage workload and prioritise tasks effectivelyDesirable experience Previous experience working within social housing Experience in construction, maintenance, or property services environmentsWhat we offer Permanent, stable role within an established responsive maintenance business Office‑based role with consistent working hours Supportive team environment Competitive salary and benefits package Opportunity to develop within WPS and the wider Wates GroupGiven 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

Carpenter

Location: Finsbury Park

Job Type: Trades and Labour

Application Deadline: 11-03-2026

🛠️ Carpenter – Finsbury Park (Responsive Maintenance)Join the WPS Team – Make a Difference in Social HousingWPS has an exciting opportunity for a Carpenter to join our Responsive Maintenance division, working from our Finsbury Park office. You’ll be delivering reactive maintenance services to our valued residents as part of a social housing contract.🔧 What You’ll Be Doing Carrying out carpentry repair and renewal works across various properties. Advising your Supervisor when additional support or materials are needed. Working independently or collaboratively with other operatives. Completing daily work sheets detailing tasks and materials used. Ensuring timely and productive completion of assigned tasks.🚗 Requirements Full UK driving licence is essential. NVQ L2 in Carpentry or a similar trade Proven experience in carpentry. Ability to work to high standards of workmanship and productivity. Excellent communication and problem-solving skills. Strong customer service mindset and ability to meet tight deadlines.💬 Why Join WPS? At WPS, we’re committed to building communities and improving lives. You’ll be part of a supportive team that values your skills and helps you grow.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

Commercial Administrator

Location: East Anglia

Job Type: Clerical & Administration

Application Deadline: 11-03-2026

We’re looking for a proactive, organised, and curious Commercial Administrator to join our team. This role puts you right where it counts: on-site with our project and commercial teams, supporting the smooth running of construction projects from the ground up.This is a Fixed Term Role (12 months) based at our site in Newmarket, Suffolk where you’ll gain hands-on experience, real-time insight, and a close connection to the people and processes that make our projects happen.ABOUT THE ROLEOur Administrators are a valuable part of our team playing a pivotal role in supporting our day-to-day operations. Ensuring seamless communication between various departments and providing exceptional support to our team members and clients. This role offers an exciting opportunity to be at the heart of our operations, contributing to the smooth running of our projects.As our Commercial Administrator you will: Supporting site teams with records, documentation, drawings and H&S files Preparing valuations, pricing documents and subcontractor communications Attending site meetings, taking minutes, and capturing progress Learning directly from experienced professionals across disciplinesWHAT WE OFFER Competitive salary & profit share scheme Flexible working Travel covered to any of our sites* Extensive corporate benefits including, Private Medical, Pension 8% employers contribution, Health and Wellness programme, 26 days holidays + bank holidays and much more… One of the best learning and development programmes which is customizable to support your career progression goals. (c.7000 training sessions delivered year to date across the WATES Group) Industry leading family leave benefits to included 26 weeks fully paid maternity, 12 weeks fully paid paternity.(*Subject to role…….)To find out more about LIFE AT WATES please click on the following link https://www.wates.co.uk/careers/We are always looking for a variety of new talent to join our teams, to help us grow and innovate as a business. Although you may not have all of the skills listed, many of them may be transferable to other roles within the WATES Group.If you would like clarity on any of our vacancies or to discuss career opportunities in strict confidence, please contact our In-House Recruitment Team directly via recruitment@wates.co.uk and one of us will get in touch as soon as possible.As a responsible and inclusive employer, we are committed to equality and are proud to have been recognised for this through a range of accolades including gold accreditation with Investors in People, we are also a Disability Confident employer. Being a family owned, business means we understand and value long term relationships.Given 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

Electrician

Location: Crawley

Job Type: Trades and Labour

Application Deadline: 11-03-2026

🔧 Electrician Opportunity – Join the WPS Team! ⚡This role is a Fixed Term ContractLocation: CrawleyDivision: Reactive Maintenance – Social Housing ContractWe’re looking for a skilled and qualified Electrician to join our dedicated team at Wates. Based out of our Crawley Office, you’ll be working across the surrounding areas, delivering high-quality maintenance and repair services in social housing properties.🔍 What You’ll Be Doing: Full electrical testing and production of EICRs Fault finding and rectification Installation of fans, including core drilling where required Replacing and cleaning accessories as needed PAT testing of appliances and tools Delivering a first-time fix approach with excellent customer service Working safely and in line with Health & Safety and safeguarding standards Collaborating with other trades to complete repairs Completing job records and material usage via PDA✅ What You’ll Need: Full NVQ Level 3 in Electrical Installation Inspection & Testing qualifications (2391 or equivalent) 18th Edition Wiring Regulations A full UK driving licence💡 What We’re Looking For:A confident and experienced Electrician who can manage their own workload, deliver small projects and repairs, and ideally has experience in the housing maintenance sector. You’ll be proactive, reliable, and committed to delivering top-tier workmanship.If you're ready to make a difference in social housing and work with a supportive team, apply today and power up your career with Wates! ⚡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