At a Glance
- Tasks: Engage with visitors, manage bookings, and deliver guided tours at the Scottish Parliament.
- Company: Join the Visitor Services team in one of Scotland's most influential institutions.
- Benefits: Enjoy 41.5 days leave, a generous pension scheme, and flexible working hours.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team that enhances public engagement and delivers high-quality services.
- Qualifications: Experience in customer service and excellent communication skills are essential.
- Other info: Open to secondments; applications from diverse backgrounds are encouraged.
The predicted salary is between 19589 - 21176 £ per year.
Salary: £19,589.78 to £21,176.16 (FTE £31,514 to £34,066 per annum) plus 6% uplift for Saturday working
Location: Holyrood, Edinburgh
Contract: Fixed Term until 31 August 2026
Leave: 41.5 days per annum (including public holidays) pro-rated
Working Pattern: 4 days per week – 23 hours
Monday: 10:00 – 15:30
Thursday: 10:00 – 15:30
Friday: 10:00 – 15:30
Saturday: 10:00 – 17:00 (with a 30-minute lunch)
Pension: Civil Service pension arrangements with an employer contribution of 28.97% of basic annual salary
Clearance Required: CTC security clearance will be processed at job offer stage
There may be seasonal adjustments to working patterns, including extended opening hours during summer months and to support major events.
Want to work in one of the most influential places in Scotland? Now is your chance!
This is an excellent opportunity to join the Visitor Services (VS) team as a Visitor Services Officer. We have a fixed term post available. This may be extended, or become permanent, subject to the outcome of a review of our service.
This appointment is also open to people looking to apply on a secondment basis.
VS is made up of approximately 18 staff with a variety of work patterns and is one of the main public-facing teams in the Scottish Parliament. The Office sits within our Directorate of People, Communications, and Inclusion.
The team provides a range of services for the Members of the Scottish Parliament (MSPs), their guests and other visitors to the Parliament and they’re currently developing new services online. Having led on the successful attainment of a Visit Scotland Five Star award, VS provides innovative and popular services and facilities to a world-class level and quality which support the Parliament’s public engagement strategy and activities.
Key activities include general office administration; organising and booking of tickets for Parliamentary business sessions, tours and events using digital booking systems; staffing the Visitor Information Desk; general visitor management and reception; providing support for major and regular events and delivering the guided tours and talks programme. The Parliament Shop is also part of Visitor Services operations and therefore sales, cash-handling and stock-processing duties are included in this role.
Reporting to a Visitor Services Supervisor, you‘ll ensure that activities are delivered according to high standards, consistently and with an excellent demonstration of high-quality service. You’ll be responsible for delivering our services and key activities.
You’ll be experienced in working with the public in a busy visitor or customer service environment and will have exceptional customer care skills. You’ll be able to demonstrate a proactive approach and will have a high level of accuracy and attention to detail. With excellent communication skills, you’ll have the ability to communicate effectively to a wide range of service users and speak publicly to a diverse range of audiences both internally and externally.
You’ll have the ability to develop and maintain positive working relationships, especially across publicly engaging offices.
You will encourage a culture where your team members are empowered to deliver high quality work which will enhance the reputation of the Parliament. You’ll also champion collaborative working with colleagues across the parliamentary service, promoting positive and open communication, as well as our commitment to diversity and inclusion.
We particularly welcome applications from candidates from a Minority Ethnic background and Disabled candidates. All appointments will be made on merit. We have a values-based culture of respect and inclusion embedded in our organisation, and everyone has the ability to make a difference.
For full information about this role and to apply for this job follow the link below.
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Visitor Services Officer employer: ASVA: Association of Scottish Visitor Attractions
Contact Detail:
ASVA: Association of Scottish Visitor Attractions Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Visitor Services Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the Scottish Parliament and its services. Understanding the role of Visitor Services in enhancing public engagement will help you demonstrate your enthusiasm and knowledge during any interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight your customer service experience, especially in busy environments. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've handled challenging situations or provided exceptional service to visitors.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your communication skills. Since the role involves speaking to diverse audiences, think of instances where you've effectively communicated complex information in an engaging way.
✨Tip Number 4
Show your commitment to teamwork and collaboration. Be prepared to talk about how you've worked with others to achieve common goals, as this is crucial for maintaining a positive working environment in Visitor Services.
We think you need these skills to ace Visitor Services Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the key responsibilities and required skills for the Visitor Services Officer position. Tailor your application to highlight how your experience aligns with these requirements.
Craft a Strong CV: Ensure your CV is up-to-date and clearly outlines your relevant experience in customer service or visitor management. Use bullet points to make it easy to read and focus on achievements that demonstrate your skills in communication and teamwork.
Write a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the role and the organisation. Provide specific examples of how you have successfully worked in similar environments and how you can contribute to the Visitor Services team.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread all documents for spelling and grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for this role.
How to prepare for a job interview at ASVA: Association of Scottish Visitor Attractions
✨Showcase Your Customer Service Skills
As a Visitor Services Officer, you'll be interacting with the public regularly. Be prepared to share specific examples of how you've provided excellent customer service in previous roles. Highlight your ability to handle difficult situations and maintain a positive attitude.
✨Demonstrate Attention to Detail
This role requires a high level of accuracy, especially when managing bookings and handling cash. During the interview, mention instances where your attention to detail made a significant difference in your work. This will show that you understand the importance of precision in this position.
✨Communicate Effectively
You'll need to communicate with a diverse range of visitors and colleagues. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Consider preparing a brief presentation or explanation about a relevant topic to demonstrate your public speaking skills.
✨Emphasise Teamwork and Collaboration
The Visitor Services team values collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've worked effectively within a team in the past. Share examples of how you’ve supported colleagues and contributed to a positive working environment, as this aligns with their commitment to diversity and inclusion.