At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide proactive admin support to the science team and manage various administrative tasks.
- Company: Join BGS, a leading geoscience organisation in Cardiff with a supportive culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy 30 days annual leave, a generous pension scheme, and competitive salary.
- Other info: Full-time role with excellent career growth opportunities and a commitment to diversity.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while working in a dynamic and collaborative environment.
- Qualifications: A-level equivalent education or relevant experience in administration required.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 € per year.
A great benefits package is offered, including an outstanding pension scheme (with a generous employer contribution – on average 27% of your pay), 30 days annual leave plus bank holidays (pro rata).
Contract Type: 6 month fixed term
Hours: Full-time 37 Hours a week (this post is not suitable for home working)
Location: BGS Cardiff
About the role
BGS is looking for an Administrator/Business Assistant to join the BGS Cardiff Office. The successful candidate will provide comprehensive and proactive administrative support to the science team, including the Chief Geologist Wales. The role also provides significant support to the wider National & International Geoscience Directorates in BGS. This will include a wide variety of administrative tasks, including the use of a range of software packages and IT systems. Working independently on day-to-day tasks, you will also be part of a small team of wider Business Assistants based across all our sites.
About you
We are looking for someone who is approachable, very well organised and who has a willingness to help all colleagues while respecting confidentiality. You should be proactive and enthusiastic. Educated to at least ‘A’ level equivalent standard and/or have relevant comparable work experience of providing high-quality support, you will have a good amount of experience in an administrative or secretarial role. Qualifications in business administration and/or customer service (e.g. NVQ level 2 or 3) would be desirable.
- Educated to at least ‘A’ level equivalent standard or have relevant comparable work experience (S)
- A good amount of experience in an administrative/secretarial role providing high-quality support (S&I)
- Proficient IT skills including Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint (S&I)
- Evidence of ability to work well with others and also work unsupervised (I)
- Approachable and professional, using judgement to resolve or advance issues and maintain confidentiality and discretion (S&I)
- Committed to a diverse and inclusive approach to work in the geosciences (S&I)
- Relevant qualification in customer service and/or business administration skills (e.g. NVQ level 2 or 3) (S)
How to apply
Applicants are required to include a CV and covering letter outlining their suitability for the role. We stress the importance of this paperwork in our selection process. A well thought through application providing evidence and examples of how you meet the advertised essential and desirable criteria for the post will be considered far more favourably than a generic covering letter and CV. If you experience any issues applying for this role, please contact Recruitment@ukri.org. The closing date for receipt of applications is Sunday 15 March 2026. Interviews will be held on 26 March 2026.
Administrator / Business Assistant in Cardiff employer: British Geological Survey
BGS Cardiff is an exceptional employer, offering a comprehensive benefits package that includes a generous pension scheme and 30 days of annual leave, fostering a supportive and inclusive work culture. Employees are encouraged to grow professionally within a collaborative environment, where they can contribute meaningfully to the geosciences while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of Cardiff.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Administrator / Business Assistant in Cardiff
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at BGS on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral, which can really boost your chances.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions related to administrative roles. Think about how your experience aligns with what BGS is looking for, especially in terms of IT skills and teamwork.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your organisational skills! During the interview, share specific examples of how you've managed multiple tasks or projects. This will demonstrate that you're the proactive and well-organised candidate they need.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the BGS team.
We think you need these skills to ace Administrator / Business Assistant in Cardiff
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Administrator/Business Assistant role. Highlight your relevant experience and skills that match the job description, rather than sending a generic application. We want to see how you fit into our team!
Show Off Your IT Skills:Since the role requires proficiency in Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, don’t forget to mention your experience with these tools. Give specific examples of how you've used them in previous roles to support your claims. We love seeing those skills in action!
Be Approachable and Professional:In your application, convey your approachable nature and professionalism. Use examples from your past experiences where you’ve worked well with others or handled sensitive information discreetly. This will show us you’re the right fit for our team culture!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. Make sure all your documents are polished and ready to go before hitting that submit button. We can’t wait to see your application!
How to prepare for a job interview at British Geological Survey
✨Know Your Role Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the job description. Familiarise yourself with the key responsibilities and required skills, especially those related to administrative support and IT proficiency. This will help you tailor your answers to show how your experience aligns perfectly with what they’re looking for.
✨Showcase Your Organisational Skills
As an Administrator/Business Assistant, being organised is crucial. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you successfully managed multiple tasks or projects. Highlight your ability to work independently and as part of a team, demonstrating your proactive approach to problem-solving.
✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions
Expect questions that assess your interpersonal skills and ability to maintain confidentiality. Think of specific situations where you’ve had to use your judgement to resolve issues or support colleagues. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses clearly.
✨Craft a Tailored CV and Cover Letter
Your application paperwork is vital! Make sure your CV and cover letter are tailored to the role, highlighting relevant experience and qualifications. Provide concrete examples that demonstrate your high-quality support skills and customer service experience, as this will set you apart from other candidates.
