The Office of Public Works (OPW) invites applications for the position of General Operative Band 3 (Rural) – Cleaner at Kilkenny Castle, Co. Kilkenny.
Competition Reference 2026/054
Minimum Eligibility Requirements
Candidates, must possess the following, at the closing date:
- Proven experience in a similar role;
- Experience in the use of cleaning equipment;
- Fluent level of English both written and oral.
Desirable Eligibility Requirements
- Manual Handing Certificate.
Principal Duties and skills
Note: The following list, which is not exhaustive, sets out the broad range of duties that may be required to be undertaken by a General Operative Band 3 (Rural) - Cleaner. Variances in the requirements of individual posts will reflect the management and operational requirements of individual sites and areas of work.
- To understand and interpret requests from the Head Cleaner / Foreperson and any other person to whom responsibility has been delegated;
- To have knowledge of cleaning products and solutions, best practice;
- To assist in the set-up of rooms as prescribed and to clear areas after events;
- To carry out all cleaning duties as required including restrooms, stocktaking, vacuum and other household/facility upkeep as per cleaning programme in place;
- To follow instructions on the correct storage and cleaning procedures for glassware, silverware and china; (if applicable)
- To have some knowledge of the care of specialised equipment, furniture, fabrics, silver, crystal and crockery; (if applicable)
- Responsible for all aspects of cleaning within the Castle and Parade Tower Conference Centre) such as vacuuming, damp, mopping, dusting, retaining excellent cleaning standards;
- Undertake general cleaning of the buildings;
- Empty Bins;
- Clean all machines, including glass, brass and stainless steel;(if applicable)
- Cleaning of all chrome and light switches;
- Cleaning of tea station; (if applicable)
- Bathrooms, including toilets, wash hand basins and mirrors, thoroughly cleaned;
- Floors, internal windows, kitchens, bathrooms, dishwasher, microwave, extractor fan, sinks, etc.;
- Demonstrating a good manner when dealing with OPW staff, contractors and visitors;
- Ensuring that all cleaning products/chemicals and equipment are used and stored appropriately.
- Assessing and confirming that all equipment/furnishings are in good repair and clean: reporting faults to Head Cleaner / Foreperson;
- Informing management of stock required if stock requires replenishing;
- Being aware of all health and safety regulations, reporting hazards/potential hazards immediately;
- Adhering to Infection Prevention and Control protocols;
- Maintaining confidentiality at all times;
- Follow security protocols;
- Reporting to management any damage or situation which may lead to members of the public/residents/staff injuring themselves.
- Ad hoc duties as required;
- To carry out other duties that are considered appropriate to the grade as delegated by Senior Management and any other member of staff to whom responsibility has been delegated.
The General Operative Grade 3 (Rural) - Cleaner is required to:
- Demonstrate flexibility and mobility, consistent with the needs of the service;
- Carry out all work in a safe manner both to colleagues and visitors through understanding, observance and application of Health and Safety requirements;
- Maintain a high standard of personal hygiene and dress in an appropriate manner, in line with management dress code;
- Use correct protocol when addressing visitors;
- Carry out other duties/works deemed by management as appropriate to the grade and to the position;
- Co-operate with the introduction of new work practices and technology;
- Contribute to a good team spirit;
- Successfully undertake training as and when required.