At a Glance
- Tasks: Support AV/IT setup for exciting events at the British Science Festival.
- Company: Join Europe’s longest-standing science festival and be part of something inspiring.
- Benefits: Earn £13.45 per hour, with flexible hours and paid training.
- Other info: Perfect for students at the University of Southampton looking to enhance their CV.
- Why this job: Gain hands-on experience in a dynamic environment while meeting diverse people.
- Qualifications: Tech-savvy, good communication skills, and a team player.
The predicted salary is between 13 - 14 £ per hour.
Duration: 16 - 20 September 2026, plus training day on Monday 14 September.
Core Hours: Hours will be assigned between the core hours of 08:00-22:00 and will be confirmed on appointment. You will be allocated no less than 35 hours over the course of the festival and may be scheduled for up to 48 hours between 14 and 20 September 2026. Some roles may involve minimal supervision and could require working late evenings or early mornings.
The British Science Festival is Europe’s longest standing science festival, travelling to a new location in the United Kingdom each year. We bring an inspiring programme of free events to the public over five days, bursting with exciting opportunities to get involved.
About the role
- Support speakers and event organisers with the set-up of AV (audio-visual) and IT equipment before events.
- Work alongside Event Assistants to support event hosts and audiences during sessions.
- Assist with the set-up and pack-down of venues.
- Ensure equipment is handled appropriately and left in good working order.
- Support other roles as required, including assisting with audience-facing tasks and covering breaks.
About you
- Comfortable using technology, including laptops and presentation software (e.g. PowerPoint).
- Confident in picking up new tech skills via training (e.g. how to operate handheld microphones).
- Confident communicating with a range of people, including speakers, audiences and other festival assistants.
- Able to work both independently and as part of a team.
- An ability to stay calm under pressure, show initiative and solve problems under pressure.
- Able to work flexibly across different shifts.
- Good level of spoken English.
- Knowledge of Southampton.
- Experience using basic AV equipment (e.g. microphones, projectors).
- Previous experience working or volunteering at events or in a public-facing role.
- Student at University of Southampton.
- Based in Southampton.
Remuneration & Conditions
The assignment is offered at a salary of £13.45 per hour. You will be allocated at least 35 hours, with the possibility of up to 48 hours between 16-20 September, including 6 hours for training on 14 September. The training day on Monday 14th September 2026 will be paid at the above rate and is compulsory. The BSA will reimburse reasonable travel costs incurred in attending the training day. The BSA will not be covering travel, accommodation, or subsistence costs for the duration of the Festival.
We are a Disability Confident employer. All disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria will be offered an interview under our guaranteed interview scheme.
British Science Festival 2026 - AV/IT Assistant in Southampton employer: British Science Association
Join the British Science Festival team as an AV/IT Assistant and immerse yourself in a vibrant work culture that celebrates innovation and collaboration. With opportunities for personal growth and skill development, particularly in technology and event management, this role offers a unique chance to contribute to Europe's longest-standing science festival while working in the dynamic city of Southampton. Enjoy flexible hours, competitive pay, and the satisfaction of being part of an inspiring public event that engages and educates audiences.
Contact Details:
British Science Association Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land British Science Festival 2026 - AV/IT Assistant in Southampton
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the festival vibe! Research the British Science Festival and its past events. This will help you understand what they value and how you can fit in, making you a more appealing candidate.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to previous festival assistants or volunteers on social media. They can share insider tips and maybe even put in a good word for you!
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your tech skills! Be ready to demonstrate your comfort with AV equipment during any interviews or informal chats. If you’ve got experience with specific tools, mention them!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about being part of this amazing event!
We think you need these skills to ace British Science Festival 2026 - AV/IT Assistant in Southampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Tech Savvy:Make sure to highlight your comfort with technology in your application. Mention any experience you have with AV equipment or presentation software like PowerPoint, as this is key for the AV/IT Assistant role.
Be Personable:Since you'll be interacting with speakers and audiences, it's important to showcase your communication skills. Share examples of how you've successfully engaged with people in previous roles or events.
Flexibility is Key:The festival requires a flexible approach to working hours, so let us know about your availability. If you can work late evenings or early mornings, make that clear in your application!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently, so don’t miss out on this opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at British Science Association
✨Know Your Tech
Familiarise yourself with the AV and IT equipment mentioned in the job description. Brush up on your skills with presentation software like PowerPoint, and be ready to discuss any previous experience you have with microphones or projectors.
✨Show Your Communication Skills
Since you'll be interacting with speakers and audiences, practice clear and confident communication. Think of examples from past experiences where you've successfully engaged with different people, especially in public-facing roles.
✨Demonstrate Flexibility
Be prepared to discuss your availability and willingness to work various shifts, including late evenings or early mornings. Highlight any past experiences where you've had to adapt quickly to changing circumstances.
✨Stay Calm Under Pressure
The festival environment can be hectic, so think of situations where you've had to solve problems on the spot. Share how you managed stress and maintained a positive attitude while ensuring everything ran smoothly.
