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- Tasks: Uncover and share the rich 125-year history of Hackney Empire through research and storytelling.
- Company: Hackney Empire, a vibrant theatre with a legacy of community engagement.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on experience in heritage research and community engagement.
- Other info: Collaborate with young participants and cultural institutions in a dynamic environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by celebrating underrepresented voices in the arts.
- Qualifications: Passion for history, research skills, and a love for community storytelling.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Hackney Empire seeks a Community Heritage Researcher to support the uncovering, curating and communicating of the rich 125-year history of the theatre. Hackney Empire is about to embark on the Development Phase of a project, The Heart of Hackney, made possible by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, thanks to National Lottery players.
The Community Heritage Researcher will work closely with the wider project team and young participants to identify and document the contributions of former artists, audiences, and community participants to the 125-year history of Hackney Empire. The role involves collecting oral histories, supporting archive research, and advising on the historical content to inform the exhibition and storytelling on site at Hackney Empire, in the local neighbourhood and across the London Borough of Hackney.
The researcher will engage with archives, private collectors, and cultural institutions to identify materials and stories that illuminate Hackney Empire’s role as a platform for underrepresented artists and communities.
This role is sought in conjunction with a Cultural Heritage Researcher in a mirrored job description. We are open to proposals from candidates who are interested in combining both these roles.
To apply: Please send your CV and a covering letter (no more than one sides of A4) setting out your interest in the role, how you meet the person specification and examples of similar projects you have worked on previously. Applications should be sent to creative.futures@hackneyempire.co.uk including in the subject line reference HECOHR by 10am on Mon 26 Jan 2026.
Community Heritage Researcher employer: Disability Arts
Contact Detail:
Disability Arts Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Community Heritage Researcher
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the heritage and arts sectors, especially those connected to Hackney Empire. Attend local events or workshops to meet potential collaborators and get your name out there.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion for community heritage! When you get the chance to chat with someone about the role, share your enthusiasm for uncovering stories and engaging with diverse communities. Let them see how much this means to you!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching Hackney Empire’s history and its impact on the community. Bring examples of your previous work that align with their mission, and be ready to discuss how you can contribute to The Heart of Hackney project.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Community Heritage Researcher
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make sure to express your passion for community heritage and how it aligns with Hackney Empire's mission. Keep it concise, but don’t shy away from showcasing your personality and enthusiasm for the role.
Tailor Your CV: We want to see how your experience fits the role! Highlight relevant projects you've worked on, especially those involving oral histories or community engagement. Use keywords from the job description to make it clear you’re the perfect fit.
Showcase Your Research Skills: Since this role involves a lot of research, be sure to mention any specific methods or tools you’ve used in past projects. Whether it’s engaging with archives or collecting oral histories, let us know how you’ve successfully navigated these tasks before.
Follow Application Instructions: Make sure to send your application to the right email and include the reference in the subject line. It sounds simple, but following instructions shows attention to detail, which is super important for this role!
How to prepare for a job interview at Disability Arts
✨Know Your History
Dive deep into the 125-year history of Hackney Empire. Familiarise yourself with key events, artists, and community contributions. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you connect your past experiences to the role.
✨Showcase Your Research Skills
Prepare examples of previous research projects you've worked on, especially those involving oral histories or archival work. Be ready to discuss your methods and how you engaged with communities to gather stories.
✨Engage with the Community
Think about how you can engage with local communities in Hackney. Have ideas ready on how to involve young participants in the project. This shows that you’re proactive and understand the importance of community involvement.
✨Tailor Your Application
When crafting your CV and covering letter, make sure to highlight relevant experiences that align with the job description. Use specific examples that demonstrate your passion for cultural heritage and community engagement.