At a Glance
- Tasks: Engage visitors and ensure they have a memorable experience at Dover Castle.
- Company: Join a charity dedicated to preserving England's rich heritage and historic sites.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible hours, discounts, and free access for you and friends to heritage sites.
- Why this job: Be part of a passionate team that connects people through history and culture.
- Qualifications: No experience needed; just bring your enthusiasm for customer service.
- Other info: Seasonal role with opportunities for career progression and enhanced leave benefits.
Location: Dover Castle, Dover, Kent, CT16 1HU
Salary: £12.21 per hour / 8 - 20 hours per week / seasonal role during peak school holidays
Job type: Permanent
Ref: 16058
About the Role
Would you like to work for a charity that cares for hundreds of historic sites across England? We are seeking a Visitor Assistant to join us at Dover Castle, working 8 - 20 hours per week during peak school holidays.
Who We Are
No history background? No problem. We value passion for people and excellent customer service above all. You will enjoy working as part of a team and providing engaging experiences to a diverse range of visitors. Heritage is for everyone. It connects us to the past and to each other through stories, artefacts, and traditions. We care for over a million objects and hundreds of sites, making heritage accessible and enjoyable for all.
Your Responsibilities
- Ensure visitors have a memorable experience from arrival to departure.
- Offer personalized recommendations, promote memberships, and suggest activities.
- Maintain site accessibility, safety, and presentation.
- Assist with busy days and adapt to quieter times, especially in bad weather.
- Work weekends and Bank Holidays as required.
Qualifications and Experience
Previous experience with the public is beneficial but not essential; full training will be provided.
Benefits
- Career progression opportunities in retail, food, and management.
- Access to English Heritage events, sites, and discounts.
- Free access for you and up to 6 friends or family members.
- Discounts in shops and cafes.
- Enhanced maternity/paternity/shared parental leave.
- Holiday entitlement starting at 25 days plus Bank Holidays, increasing after 3 years.
- Option to buy additional leave.
- Matched pension contributions up to 10%.
Inclusivity and Wellbeing
We are committed to diversity, inclusion, and wellbeing. We support various networks and provide resources for mental health and workplace adjustments.
Application
For inquiries, contact Becky Smith at becky.smith@english-heritage.org.uk. No agencies, please.
Visitor Assistant employer: English Heritage
Contact Detail:
English Heritage Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Visitor Assistant
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Dover Castle and its history. Understanding the site's significance will help you engage with visitors and provide them with a memorable experience.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for customer service during any interactions. Highlighting your enthusiasm for helping people will resonate well with the hiring team, as they value excellent customer service.
✨Tip Number 3
Be prepared to discuss how you can adapt to different situations, such as busy days or inclement weather. Demonstrating flexibility and problem-solving skills will make you a strong candidate.
✨Tip Number 4
Network with current or former Visitor Assistants if possible. They can provide insights into the role and the work environment, which can be beneficial during your application process.
We think you need these skills to ace Visitor Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description carefully to understand the responsibilities and qualifications required for the Visitor Assistant position. Highlight your passion for customer service and working with people, as these are key attributes they value.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects any relevant experience, even if it's not directly related to heritage or history. Emphasise your customer service skills and any previous roles where you interacted with the public.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your enthusiasm for the role and the organisation. Mention why you want to work at Dover Castle specifically and how you can contribute to creating memorable experiences for visitors.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, double-check for any spelling or grammatical errors. A well-presented application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which is important in a customer-facing role.
How to prepare for a job interview at English Heritage
✨Show Your Passion for Customer Service
As a Visitor Assistant, your enthusiasm for providing excellent customer service is key. Be prepared to share examples of how you've engaged with the public in previous roles or situations, even if they are not directly related to this job.
✨Demonstrate Teamwork Skills
This role requires working as part of a team, so highlight any experiences where you collaborated effectively with others. Discuss how you adapt to different team dynamics and contribute to a positive work environment.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Dover Castle
Research Dover Castle and its history before the interview. Being knowledgeable about the site will not only impress your interviewers but also help you understand the visitor experience you’ll be enhancing.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess how you would handle various visitor scenarios, such as busy days or adverse weather conditions. Think of specific examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your problem-solving skills and adaptability.