Handyperson
Job Description:A handyperson carries out minor repairs and small jobs in people's homes and businesses.
Job Category:What you will do:
In this role you could:
- put up curtain rails, shelves and picture frames
- fit smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors and grab rails
- replace fuses, plugs and light bulbs
- fit door and window locks and alarms
- unblock sinks and fix leaking taps and overflow problems
- adjust or re-hang doors
- move or assemble items of furniture
- paint and decorate
- do routine gardening work, clear out guttering or take on minor building repairs
Skills:
You’ll need:
- knowledge of building and construction
- the ability to use, repair and maintain machines and tools
- to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device
As well as:
- the ability to work well with your hands
- problem-solving skills
- practical skills for repairing and maintaining equipment
- adaptable to the needs of each client
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- customer service skills
- the ability to work well with others (teamwork)
While formal education is not always a strict requirement for becoming a handyperson, gaining practical experience, learning from mentors, and acquiring relevant certifications or licenses (if applicable) can play a significant role in building a successful career in this field.
Entry Requirements:
School Subjects
Becoming a handyperson typically does not require specific GCSE subjects, as the role primarily involves practical skills and experience. Here are some GCSE subjects, however, that could be beneficial for becoming a handyperson:
- Design and Technology (DT): This subject can help you develop practical skills, such as woodworking, metalworking, and other hands-on tasks that are relevant to many aspects of handy work.
- Mathematics: Basic math skills are essential for measurements, calculations, and problem-solving in a handyman role.
- Science: A basic understanding of science can be useful for tasks that involve simple electrical work, plumbing, or other technical aspects.
- English: Good communication skills are important for understanding clients’ needs, providing instructions, and maintaining clear communication throughout the job.
- Information Technology (IT): Basic computer skills can be helpful for tasks that involve researching solutions, communicating with clients, and managing appointments.
- Personal and Social Education (PSE): This subject can help develop interpersonal skills, time management, and professionalism, which are important in any service-oriented role.
You can get into this job through:
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- volunteering
- applying directly
College
You can take a short course in DIY skills at college. This can be a good starting point and useful when applying for jobs.
Apprenticeship
You could do an intermediate property maintenance apprenticeship or an intermediate or advanced apprenticeship in a construction trade like plumbing or carpentry.
Volunteering
You can volunteer to help out with DIY jobs for a housing association or a charity. This can give you the chance to pick up skills and make contacts, which may lead to paid work.
You can look for volunteering opportunities through Do IT.
Direct Application
You can apply directly to become a handyperson. Employers will expect you to have good DIY skills.
You may also find it useful to have experience or qualifications in joinery, plumbing or electrics.
Career tips
Experience of working with older people or people with disabilities in a housing or social care setting can be useful.
Working Hours and Environment:
You could work in a government or private hospital, in a therapy clinic, at a client’s home or from home. Typically you could work 37 to 45 hours a week.
Career Path & Progression:
With experience, you could become a team leader or jobs coordinator with a service and repair company. You could also move into related areas of work like caretaking.
With formal qualifications you could become a qualified tradesperson, like a carpenter or plumber.