At a Glance
- Tasks: Be the friendly face of the festival, ensuring visitors have an amazing experience.
- Company: Join the UK's largest visual art festival and be part of something special.
- Benefits: Earn £13.45 per hour with flexible part-time or full-time roles.
- Other info: We value diversity and encourage applications from all backgrounds.
- Why this job: Make connections in the arts while helping to showcase incredible visual projects.
- Qualifications: Enthusiasm and a passion for art are key; no prior experience needed!
The predicted salary is between 27000 - 28000 £ per year.
£13.45 per hour
Part Time, Fixed Term, Full Time
About Us
EAF (Edinburgh Art Festival) is the UK’s largest annual festival of visual art. The festival was founded in 2004 to provide a dedicated platform for the visual arts at the heart of Edinburgh’s summer festivals. EAF cultivates connections between communities, artists and collaborators to develop contemporary visual art projects. Every August, we present the UK’s largest visual art festival that is rooted in Edinburgh and Scotland, with global dialogue. Our year-round Civic programme allows us to work year-round, building ongoing relationships with local artists, initiatives, and communities.
About the Role
We are seeking enthusiastic, friendly and engaged individuals to join our team and provide an outstanding visitor experience. Programme Assistants will play a key role in the festival, being the first point of contact for visitors to our programme, whilst playing an important role in ensuring the security of artworks, and the safety of visitors and staff. In 2026 Programme Assistants will be based across a range of sites and venues relating to: our Commissions Programme; the EAF welcome space and wider events programme.
Apply: by sending a CV and cover letter (max 2 pages), by email, outlining how your skills and experience meet the requirements of the job, to Alice Keen, Festival Manager at jobs@edinburghartfestival.com and quoting Programme Assistant in the email subject header.
Deadline: midnight on Monday 1 June
Interviews: TBC
EAF is committed to creating a more equitable and inclusive arts sector. We actively encourage applications from individuals who are underrepresented in the visual arts, including those from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds, disabled people, LGBTQ+ communities, and those from lower socio-economic backgrounds. We are committed to making our recruitment process as accessible as possible. If you require this information in an alternative format, or need support at any stage of the application process, please get in touch and we will do our best to accommodate your needs.
Programme Assistant - Front of House employer: Festivals Edinburgh
EAF is an exceptional employer that fosters a vibrant and inclusive work culture, making it an ideal place for those passionate about the arts. With a commitment to employee growth and community engagement, Programme Assistants will not only gain invaluable experience in the visual arts sector but also contribute to meaningful projects that resonate with diverse audiences. Located in the heart of Edinburgh, employees enjoy a dynamic environment that celebrates creativity and collaboration, ensuring a rewarding and fulfilling work experience.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Programme Assistant - Front of House
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the festival! Dive into EAF's past events and current projects. This will not only help you in interviews but also show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Attend local art events or connect with people in the industry on social media. Building relationships can lead to insider info about job openings.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to talk about your experience and how it relates to providing an outstanding visitor experience. Confidence is key when you're face-to-face with potential employers.
✨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 joining the EAF team!
We think you need these skills to ace Programme Assistant - Front of House
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Programme Assistant role. Highlight relevant experience and skills that match what we’re looking for, like customer service or teamwork. This shows us you’re genuinely interested in the position!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you’re passionate about the arts and how your background makes you a great fit for our team. Keep it concise and engaging – we want to get to know you!
Follow the Application Instructions:Don’t forget to follow the application instructions carefully! Send your CV and cover letter to the specified email address and make sure to include 'Programme Assistant' in the subject line. It helps us keep everything organised!
Show Your Enthusiasm:Let your enthusiasm for the role and the festival shine through in your application. We love candidates who are excited about contributing to the visual arts community. A little passion goes a long way!
How to prepare for a job interview at Festivals Edinburgh
✨Know the Festival Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you research the Edinburgh Art Festival thoroughly. Understand its mission, key projects, and the role of Programme Assistants. This will show your genuine interest and help you answer questions more confidently.
✨Showcase Your People Skills
As a Programme Assistant, you'll be the first point of contact for visitors. Prepare examples of how you've provided excellent customer service in the past. Think about situations where you’ve handled difficult visitors or created a welcoming atmosphere.
✨Demonstrate Your Passion for the Arts
Express your enthusiasm for visual arts during the interview. Share any relevant experiences, whether it’s attending exhibitions, volunteering at art events, or even creating art yourself. This passion can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Prepare Questions to Ask
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the festival's future projects, community engagement, or how Programme Assistants contribute to the overall experience. This shows you're engaged and thinking ahead.
