At a Glance
- Tasks: Support adults in building confidence and skills for long-term career success.
- Company: Bath & North East Somerset Council, dedicated to improving lives in the community.
- Benefits: Flexible working hours, competitive pay, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to community impact and personal growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference by empowering individuals to overcome barriers to employment.
- Qualifications: Experience in careers advice and strong communication skills required.
At Bath & North East Somerset Council we have one overriding purpose – to improve people’s lives.
Are you driven to support others in building confidence, skills, and long-term career success? We’re looking for a dedicated and compassionate Information, Advice, and Guidance (IAG) Officer to join our Skills Connect team in Bath and North East Somerset.
In this role, you’ll support adults aged 18 and over—including those who face barriers to employment—to build confidence, develop essential skills, and take meaningful steps toward lasting and sustainable work. You’ll work one-to-one with individuals to understand their goals, challenges, and aspirations, offering tailored support every step of the way.
You’ll help people identify their strengths, explore career options, and overcome barriers to employment. Support will include CV writing, job searching, interview preparation, travel training, and in-work support. You’ll also connect participants with training, volunteering, and placement opportunities, offering personalised career coaching to help them move forward.
You’ll work closely with local partners and services to ensure joined-up support, while managing your own caseload and keeping accurate records. The role requires experience in delivering one-to-one careers advice or coaching, particularly with individuals who may be vulnerable or face complex challenges. You’ll also need experience in managing challenging behaviour in a supportive and professional manner, helping participants stay engaged and motivated.
You’ll need strong communication, problem-solving, and ICT skills, as well as the ability to work independently and meet project targets. A Level 4 qualification in Careers Development or IAG is desirable, or equivalent experience. A full UK driving licence and the ability to travel across Bath and North East Somerset is essential, as is an enhanced DBS check. Knowledge of local employment support services and multi-agency working would be a bonus.
If you’re committed to empowering people and want to make a real difference in our community, we’d love to hear from you.
PLEASE NOTE: this position is fixed term until 26/02/2027 to cover unprecedented capacity demands on the service. The position is 37hrs per week, but we would consider reduced hours for the right candidate.
Interview date: 29/09/2026
No Agencies Please.
About Bath and North East Somerset Council. Working at Bath and North East Somerset provides an opportunity to contribute to your community and make a positive impact on the lives of residents. Our values shape how we work to deliver public services, and how we communicate with the residents we serve. We care about the best outcomes for local people, through our public services.
We aspire to have a diverse and inclusive workplace and strongly encourage suitably qualified applicants from a wide range of backgrounds to apply and join us. The Council is committed to having a diverse and inclusive workforce. Applications for job-share, part-time and flexible working arrangements are welcomed and will be considered in line with business needs.
Please note that this role is subject to an Enhanced/Basic DBS Check. Safeguarding Statement: The Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable groups and expects all employees and volunteers to share this commitment.
Skills Connect Information Advice and Guidance Officer employer: Bath & North East Somerset Council
Bath and North East Somerset Council is an excellent employer for Trauma-Informed Social Workers, offering a supportive work environment that prioritises professional development and collaboration. With strong leadership backing, extensive training opportunities, and relocation assistance, employees can thrive while making a meaningful impact on the lives of children in care. The council's commitment to family-centred interventions ensures that staff are engaged in rewarding work that truly makes a difference in the community.
Contact Details:
Bath & North East Somerset Council Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Skills Connect Information Advice and Guidance Officer
✨Get Involved in Local Community Projects
One of the best ways to land a temporary role in social work is to dive headfirst into local community projects. Volunteer your time or skills at local charities or community centres to not only gain experience but also to connect with professionals in the field. They might just have some insider knowledge on temporary positions that pop up!
✨Engage with Social Work Networks
Join online forums and social media groups specifically for social workers. Platforms like Facebook or LinkedIn have dedicated groups where professionals share temporary job opportunities. Being an active member can help you stay in the loop and even get recommendations from those already in the field.
✨Attend Workshops and Seminars
Keep an eye out for workshops, seminars, or conferences related to social work in your area. These events aren't just great for learning; they're also hotbeds for networking! You never know who might be hiring or can point you towards a temporary position while you're soaking up new skills.
✨Apply Directly Through Our Website!
When you spot a role that piques your interest, especially for a temporary position, make sure to apply directly through our website! This not only shows your commitment to Bath & North East Somerset Council, but also gives you an edge by putting your application right in front of the hiring team. Let’s get you moving on that path to your next opportunity!
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Social Work:In your cover letter, let's highlight why you're passionate about social work and how your values align with those of Bath & North East Somerset Council. Share specific experiences where you made a difference, as this field thrives on genuine motivation and connection.
Demonstrate Relevant Experience:When listing your experience, focus on any internships, volunteer roles, or temporary positions you've had in social work or related fields. Those skills are gold! Think about situations where you helped individuals or communities, and don't forget to mention any relevant certifications, like safeguarding or mental health first aid.
Keep It Concise and Relevant:Remember, for a temporary role, hiring managers want to see how you fit in and can hit the ground running. Keep your CV clear and to the point, showcasing only the experience that really matters for the role at Bath & North East Somerset Council. We recommend a two-page limit – make every word count!
Emphasise Flexibility and Adaptability:Considering this is a temporary position, it's vital to show you can adapt to new environments quickly. In your application, highlight any past experiences where you had to adjust to different teams or roles smoothly. This shows you understand the nature of temporary work and are ready for the challenge!
How to prepare for a job interview at Bath & North East Somerset Council
✨Sharpen Your Empathy Skills
In social work, it's all about understanding and connecting with people from diverse backgrounds. Make sure to prepare some examples from your experience where you've demonstrated empathy and resilience. Practising active listening techniques can help you articulate your approach during the interview with Bath & North East Somerset Council.
✨Know Your Frameworks
Familiarise yourself with key social work theories and frameworks, like the ecological systems theory or person-centred approaches. These concepts might pop up during your interview for the temporary Skills Connect Information Advice and Guidance Officer role at Bath & North East Somerset Council, so it's good to have a couple of insights ready to share.
✨Highlight Flexibility and Adaptability
Since this is a temporary position, showcasing your flexibility is key. Be prepared to discuss past experiences where you quickly adapted to new environments or changing client needs, which is crucial in the dynamic world of social work.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect some scenario-based questions that test your decision-making skills and ethical judgement. Think about how you would handle specific challenges you might face in the field. Having a clear structure for your answers will show Bath & North East Somerset Council that you can think critically and act effectively under pressure.
