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- Tasks: Support exciting exhibitions by engaging with visitors and assisting in installations.
- Company: Join the Royal Scottish Academy, a hub for contemporary art in Edinburgh.
- Benefits: Earn £12.60 per hour, with pay rising to £13.45 in 2026, plus paid breaks.
- Why this job: Be part of high-profile exhibitions and share your passion for contemporary art.
- Qualifications: Interest in Scottish contemporary art and strong communication skills are essential.
- Other info: Flexible shifts available, perfect for students looking to gain experience.
The predicted salary is between 10 - 16 £ per hour.
We are looking for Gallery Assistants to join our team to support us with our two biggest exhibitions of the year, RSA New Contemporaries and the RSA Annual Exhibition. Based within the RSA Galleries, this position will provide exhibition supervision and installation assistance for the Royal Scottish Academy exhibitions programme between the dates of the contract.
Hours: There are currently several three, four and five day-per-week positions available.
Location: Royal Scottish Academy, The Mound, Edinburgh, EH2 2EL.
Remuneration: £12.60 per hour, rising to £13.45 from April 2026. Hours worked after 5pm paid at time and a half.
Contract Type: Fixed term: 15 March – 21 June 2026 (exact start date subject to shift pattern).
Shift information: Monday to Saturday shifts begin at 9:45am, ending at 5pm. Two fifteen-minute breaks and a half hour lunch. Sunday shifts begin at 11:45am, ending at 5pm and one half hour break. Breaks are paid.
Your key duties will include:
- Safeguarding the integrity of the artworks on exhibition.
- Assisting with the exhibition installation and take-down.
- Proactively engaging with exhibition visitors to ensure that all visitors have the best possible experience.
- Ensuring the visitor code of conduct is upheld.
- Participating in gallery tours / educational events as and when required.
- Selling tickets and exhibition catalogues (including cash handling and credit card sales).
- Working with artists and participants to assist with exhibition-based events.
- Representing the Royal Scottish Academy and our work in a public setting.
- Sharing knowledge and appreciation of the artworks on view with visitors.
- Ensuring that high standards of presentation are always maintained in the gallery.
Required Skills / Qualifications:
- A knowledge of, and interest in, Scottish contemporary art.
- Previous retail and/or customer service experience would be desirable.
- Experience of working independently in a small team.
- Excellent public communication skills and ability to speak confidently about artwork.
- Ability to work independently and prioritise.
- Artwork handling skills are essential and some knowledge of exhibition installation.
- The postholder will be expected to be outgoing and professional, representing the Royal Scottish Academy and Scottish contemporary artists during high-profile exhibitions.
The deadline is Saturday 07 February 2026 at 12:00.
Gallery Assistant – Temporary in Edinburgh employer: Creative Scotland
Contact Detail:
Creative Scotland Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Gallery Assistant – Temporary in Edinburgh
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the Royal Scottish Academy and its exhibitions inside out. Familiarise yourself with the current and past exhibitions, especially RSA New Contemporaries and the RSA Annual Exhibition. This way, when you chat with the team or during interviews, you can show off your passion and knowledge about the art scene!
✨Tip Number 2
Don’t just wait for job openings to pop up! Network like a pro. Attend gallery events, engage with artists, and connect with other art enthusiasts. The more people you meet, the better your chances of hearing about opportunities before they’re even advertised.
✨Tip Number 3
When you get that interview, be ready to showcase your customer service skills. Think of examples from your past experiences where you’ve gone above and beyond for visitors or customers. This will help you stand out as someone who can enhance the visitor experience at the gallery.
✨Tip Number 4
Finally, apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the RSA team. Don’t miss out on this opportunity – get your application in before the deadline!
We think you need these skills to ace Gallery Assistant – Temporary in Edinburgh
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Art: When writing your application, let your love for Scottish contemporary art shine through! We want to see how your interests align with our exhibitions, so share any relevant experiences or insights that showcase your enthusiasm.
Highlight Relevant Experience: Make sure to mention any previous retail or customer service roles you've had. We’re looking for candidates who can engage with visitors and handle ticket sales, so don’t be shy about sharing your experience in these areas!
Be Professional Yet Approachable: Your written application should reflect the professional yet friendly vibe we aim for at the Royal Scottish Academy. Use a conversational tone while maintaining professionalism to show us you can represent our gallery well.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy – just follow the link provided in the job description!
How to prepare for a job interview at Creative Scotland
✨Know Your Art
Brush up on your knowledge of Scottish contemporary art before the interview. Be ready to discuss your favourite artists or exhibitions and how they inspire you. This shows genuine interest and helps you connect with the role.
✨Showcase Your Customer Service Skills
Prepare examples from your previous retail or customer service experience where you went above and beyond for a visitor or customer. Highlighting these moments will demonstrate your ability to engage positively with exhibition visitors.
✨Practice Your Communication
Since you'll be representing the Royal Scottish Academy, practice speaking confidently about artworks. You might even want to rehearse explaining a piece of art to a friend to get comfortable with public communication.
✨Be Ready for Practical Questions
Expect questions about artwork handling and exhibition installation. Brush up on any relevant skills you have and be prepared to discuss how you would ensure the integrity of the artworks during installation and take-down.
