Keeping over 2,600 stores and a whole host of offices, warehouses, and distribution centres across the UK safe and running smoothly is no small feat.
That means, for a Service Maintenance Technician, HVAC (Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning) two days rarely look the same. And that’s just how Elizabeth likes it. Since joining TESCO, she’s found variety, support, and plenty of great perks. Learn all about her favourite parts of the role, and why she thinks maintenance looks different at TESCO:
“I’d been a commercial engineer for over 30 years working in various organisations including British Gas, before joining in 2021. I didn’t actually realise Tesco had a Maintenance department – a lot of supermarkets use contracting firms. But I had a few recommendations from people I’d worked with over the years, who all said it was a good place to work.
I always say, you’ve got to have broad shoulders to work in this industry, it can be challenging. You might come across people who’re surprised about you being “a woman in a man’s world”. But I think attitudes have changed and people are more open. Tesco is certainly more progressive than other firms I’ve been at. They’re focused on gender equality in the workplace. And just think, during WW1, all the engineering jobs were done by women.
“It’s really very varied, and that’s something I do love about the job”
A typical day? There’s no such thing. I’ll get up in the morning, log in, and there’s a new job on my system. It could be anything. Replacing a boiler, fixing a door heater, servicing an air conditioning unit. I could be in Sheffield, Liverpool, Manchester. And it’s not just Tesco stores, we’ve also got distribution centres, One Stop shops, Booker warehouses and more. We’re definitely never quiet!
It’s really very varied, and that’s something I do love about the job. That, and getting things working again. It’s all about fault finding and critical thinking. I’m constantly challenged to problem solve. Of course, there’s planned work, when you’ve had to order a part, or you’ve got appliances to service. But otherwise, you never know what a day will look like. You just get in your van and go.
“You can create your own personal development plan.”
Unlike a lot of smaller firms that would expect you to supply your own equipment, your van is provided by Tesco, which you can take for personal use too. And you get all the approved tools, and your uniform provided too. I’ve got a specific set of ladders, a multipurpose one that can get me quite high. They’re a little bit lighter so that I can carry them on my own.
Training varies depending on your role. I’ve got my IOSH (Institution of Occupational Safety and Health) and HVAC qualifications. You can create your own personal development plan. And there are opportunities to put a case forward if you want specific training or to study for a degree – if it will benefit your role and career.
“I really do think you can be anything you want here.”
Tesco’s a good employer. You get hot drinks and meals throughout the day – toast, soup, fresh fruit. You wouldn’t believe how many places I’ve worked where you won’t get a tea or coffee, even though that’s just the basics. The Colleague Clubcard is great too, you get loads of discounts in store (I really like F&F jammies).
They do a lot for the community too. Me and a few people in my team painted a community centre using our volunteer days. I also went to a school to be part of a career day for kids choosing their GCSE options. And even before I started – during the pandemic – I was one of the key workers who helped deliver food parcels, donated by Tesco, to vulnerable people.
I really do think you can be anything you want here. If you’re career-minded, there are endless opportunities. As a 50-year-old woman, I’m at the stage where I’m reevaluating life and thinking about challenges I’ll face, like the delightful menopause. And I can’t be climbing ladders at 60. I’m thinking about positions in Controls, where I can still use my technical knowledge and skills. I know I’m not ready to put down my tools just yet. But whatever comes next, my future at Tesco will definitely be rosy.” Elizabeth, Service Maintenance Technician
Curious about a career in maintenance at Tesco? Find out more