The British Government is committed to fostering an inclusive and diversity-friendly workplace. We value difference, promote equality, and challenge discrimination to enhance our organizational capability. We encourage applications from all backgrounds and do not discriminate based on disability, race, ethnicity, gender identity, religion, sexual orientation, age, veteran status, or any other legally protected category. Additionally, we support flexible, family-friendly working arrangements where operational and security needs allow.
If you are a skilled carpenter with experience in construction, maintenance, and project management, this is your chance to work in a dynamic and professional environment. Read on to learn more about this exciting opportunity and how you can apply.
Job Details
- Position: Carpenter S1
- Job Category: Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (Operations and Corporate Services)
- Job Subcategory: Estates
- Location: British High Commission Nairobi, Kenya
- Number of Vacancies: 1
- Type of Position: Permanent
- Working Hours per Week: 44 hours
- Salary: KES 113,397.73 per month
- Start Date: 1 April 2025
- Application Deadline: 10 February 2025
About the Role
Main Purpose of the Job
The Carpenter will be responsible for carpentry work on new projects, refurbishments, and maintenance across the British High Commission Nairobi estate. The role includes working on residential and office spaces, workshops, and outdoor structures. The individual will ensure that all work meets high standards of workmanship, follows safety regulations, and adheres to British and Kenyan building regulations.
Roles and Responsibilities
1. Carpentry Duties (60%)
- Perform planned maintenance, repairs, and refurbishments in a timely and professional manner.
- Carry out building projects according to industry best practices and British and Kenyan building standards.
- Read and understand work orders or receive instructions from the Team Leader/Line Manager.
- Erect and inspect scaffolding up to 3 meters high to enable safe working conditions.
- Maintain tools and equipment in clean, safe, and working condition.
- Safeguard materials and tools, ensuring proper use, security, and return of unused items.
- Ensure all tasks comply with Health and Safety standards, including risk assessments and site safety orders.
- Conduct carpentry and remodeling work with precision and professionalism.
- Operate both manual and power tools safely and efficiently.
- Demonstrate and suggest improvements to enhance efficiency, safety, and quality.
- Set up and operate woodworking machinery such as lathes, drill presses, sanders, shapers, and planning machines.
- Execute stain-grade trim work, door hanging, window setting, and installation of door hardware.
- Interpret and work with blueprints and technical drawings.
- Perform general maintenance, including road/path construction, full building constructions or modifications, and special projects such as swimming pool repairs.
- Work at heights and outdoor locations as required.
2. Contractor Supervision (20%)
- Ensure contractors comply with British High Commission policies and procedures.
- Monitor contractor adherence to project schedules and report any delays.
- Inspect contractor work to ensure it meets agreed standards and specifications.
- Ensure contractors follow BHC health and safety regulations.
- Conduct risk assessments and report incidents to the Health & Safety officer.
- Oversee material usage and proper storage by contractors.
- Manage contractor access to BHC properties and escort them as required.
3. Health and Safety Compliance (10%)
- Support the Health and Safety Officer and Team Leader in conducting property risk assessments.
- Conduct regular safety inspections and ensure adherence to safety protocols.
- Wear and maintain PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) properly.
4. Driving Duties (10%)
- Deliver materials and transport TWG colleagues using assigned vehicles across the BHC estate.
- Maintain cleanliness and service schedules for TWG fleet vehicles.
- Ensure all vehicles are properly parked and secured after use.
Essential Skills and Experience
- At least 4 years of hands-on carpentry, joinery, and cabinetry experience.
- Computer literacy, including proficiency in Microsoft Outlook, Teams, Word, and Excel.
- Valid driver’s license with at least 3 years of clean driving experience (a driving test will be conducted before employment is offered).
- Minimum Grade 1 qualification in carpentry and joinery.
- Strong communication skills, attention to detail, and initiative.
- Excellent customer service skills and teamwork abilities.
Desirable Skills and Experience
- Artisan or Craft Certificate in Carpentry & Joinery or an equivalent building-related qualification.
- Civil works experience.
- Ability to multi-skill (e.g., plumbing, masonry, painting).
- Good written and verbal communication skills.
Required Behaviours
- Delivering at Pace
- Managing a Quality Service
- Working Together
Additional Information
- The British High Commission Nairobi supports a culture of continuous learning and development, offering in-person and online training programs.
- The selected candidate will have the opportunity to apply for professional certification and further skills training.
- The British High Commission does not request any payment or fees at any stage of the application process.
- Applicants must have the legal right to live and work in Kenya without requiring a work permit.
- Employees not liable for local income tax on their Mission salary may have their salaries reduced by an equivalent amount.
- Reference checks and security clearances will be conducted for successful candidates.
- Regularly check your application status through the official British Government application portal.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit their applications through the official British Government job portal. Ensure that your application is complete before submission, as no changes can be made once submitted.
