We’re looking for an enthusiastic and organised individual with a passion for bringing the heritage of Calanais and the Outer Hebrides to life. You will promote the Centre and its programmes, strengthen community connections and support the visitor experience.
22.5 hours Per week, permanent contract
£31,827 fte (£19,096 pro rata) per annum
job description
ROLE OVERVIEW
About the Calanais Visitor Centre
At the Calanais Visitor Centre, we are committed to preserving, researching, and sharing the rich archaeological heritage of the Calanais Standing Stones. Our vision is to create an outstanding visitor experience while maintaining a deep connection between the site, the community, and the wider world.
We are proud to be an equal opportunities employer that celebrates diversity, operates within a culture of respect, and creates a welcoming environment for all employees.
Role Purpose
Support the Heritage Manager with heritage and communication activities that help people connect with Calanais. You will promote the Centre and its programmes, strengthen community connections and support the visitor experience.
Normal working days are three days per week, Monday to Friday, with flexibility to agree which days are worked. Occasional evening and weekend work may be required to support events and operational needs.
Reports to: Heritage Manager
Direct Reports: N/A
Who We're Looking For
We’re looking for an enthusiastic and organised individual with a passion for bringing the heritage of Calanais and the Outer Hebrides to life. Working closely with the Heritage Manager, you’ll help develop and deliver an engaging heritage programme that connects visitors and local communities with the site’s rich history. You’ll bring strong interpersonal and project delivery skills, a collaborative approach to building partnerships, and a commitment to diversity, inclusion and accessibility through our Heritage for All programme. You’ll champion Gaelic culture and language, confidently represent the Centre at events and public engagement opportunities, and use visitor feedback to help shape and improve our activities. Experience in heritage, community engagement or partnership working, alongside Gaelic language skills, would be welcome but is not essential.
This role would suit someone who:
- Has a passion for culture and heritage
- Takes pride in being organised, accurate and highly dependable.
- Is confident managing multiple priorities while remaining calm under pressure.
- Has a keen eye for detail and enjoys producing work of a consistently high standard.
Requirements
Roles and ResponsibilitiesHeritage Programme Delivery
- Develop and deliver aspects of the heritage program in partnership with the Heritage Manager.
- Promote diversity, inclusivity, and accessibility through the heritage for all programme, fostering an environment where all voices are heard and valued.
- Ensure that gaelic culture and language are championed throughout our activities.
- Develop and maintain effective partnerships with community groups, heritage organisations, archaeologists, educational institutions, tourism bodies and other stakeholders.
- Coordinate the collection and management of visitor feedback through surveys, observation logs and evaluation activities.
Communications, Marketing and PR
- Create engaging, accurate and accessible content that communicates the significance of the Calanais Standing Stones and the wider heritage of the area.
- Support the delivery of the centre's communications and marketing plan in collaboration with the heritage manager.
- Coordinate media enquiries, press releases, online reviews, key marketing assets and affiliate websites and promotional campaigns in line with organisational priorities.
Other Responsibilities
- Commit to continuous professional development and undertake relevant training.
- Keep up to date with developments in communications, digital engagement and the heritage sector.
Person Specification
Essential Skills, Experience and Qualifications
- Excellent organisational, planning and interpersonal skills.
- Experience of planning and delivering projects within agreed budgets and timescales.
- A genuine enthusiasm for promoting heritage, culture and visitor engagement.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with exceptional attention to detail and proofreading ability.
Desirable Skills, Experience and Qualifications
- Ability to speak Gaelic.
- Qualification in communications, marketing, heritage, event management or a related discipline.
- Experience of working within the heritage, tourism, culture or charitable sectors.
Personal Attributes
- Able to work effectively as part of a small team while also being confident working independently.
- Creative, enthusiastic and proactive, with the ability to develop innovative ways of engaging audiences.
- Flexible, adaptable and willing to support a wide range of organisational activities.
Benefits
WHAT WE OFFER
At the Calanais Visitor Centre, we believe in creating a supportive, rewarding, and inspiring workplace. We offer:
· Competitive Salary & Benefits – Including a comprehensive benefits package.
· Fair Work Scotland Accreditation – Commitment to being a Living Wage employer and promoting Fair Work principles.
· Personal & Professional Development – Ongoing training, leadership development, and opportunities for career growth.
· Work-Life Balance – A flexible and supportive work environment that prioritises employee wellbeing.
· Recognition & Reward – A culture that values contributions and celebrates achievements.
· An Inclusive & Supportive Workplace – A welcoming and dynamic environment where employees feel valued and empowered to grow.
Join us in shaping the future of the Calanais Visitor Centre and ensuring its legacy for generations to come.
Our Working Environment
At Calanais, every role matters. Whether you are welcoming visitors, serving coffee, preparing food, assisting in the shop or supporting behind the scenes, every member of our team contributes equally to the experience our visitors receive. We believe in treating everyone with the same respect, supporting one another, celebrating success together and creating a workplace where everyone feels valued.
Questions?
Interested?
If you'd like an informal conversation before applying, we'd be delighted to hear from you. Please get in touch with Heritage Manager Kathryn Lamont Smith at: kathryn@calanais.org
Engagement Officer employer: Calanais Visitor Centre
At Calanais Visitor Centre, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that values every team member's contribution to creating memorable experiences for our visitors. With a supportive work culture that emphasises respect, kindness, and teamwork, we offer flexible employment opportunities in a stunning location steeped in heritage. Join us during our busy season and be part of a dedicated team where your enthusiasm and commitment to customer service will be celebrated and rewarded.
