At a Glance
- Tasks: Support access to Scotland’s National Collections and engage with the public.
- Company: Join Historic Environment Scotland, a leader in heritage preservation.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, flexible hours, and a generous pension scheme.
- Other info: Diverse workplace welcoming applicants from all backgrounds.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in heritage access while working with a passionate team.
- Qualifications: Experience in heritage settings and strong communication skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 29622 - 29622 € per year.
Starting salary: £29,622 per year
Contract type: 12 month fixed term contract
Grade: 2
Location: John Sinclair House, Edinburgh, EH8 9NX
Working Hours: Full-time, 35 hours per week
Interviews: To be held in person at Historic Environment Scotland John Sinclair House
This is an exciting opportunity to join a team of dedicated professionals who document, care for, and provide access to one of Scotland’s National Collections. With physical archives dating from the 17th century through to the most recent digital archives, and extensive library collections, it is a remarkable collection focused on the entirety of the historic environment.
Benefits of joining us at Historic Environment Scotland:
- Enrolment onto a Civil Service Pension scheme – 28% employer contribution
- 25 days annual leave, pro-rata (increasing to 30 days after 3 years) + 11.5 public holidays
- Reimbursement for relevant professional subscriptions
- Support for further education and personal development
- Study leave for work related courses
- Flexible working hours (where appropriate)
- Free entry to all of our properties (with up to three guests)
- Free entry to English Heritage, Manx and Cadw properties
Key Responsibilities of this role:
- Monitor and triage internal and external customer enquiries supporting quality and timely responses, responding directly to archive enquiries and escalating sales and licensing enquiries to the public service Archivists.
- Assist with the preparation and delivery of the archives access and engagement programme, including invigilating the Search Room & Library, group visits to the search room and administration of the Archive Talks programme.
- Develop and maintain knowledge of the archive collections and web services, and wider Historic Environment Scotland work, to inform responses to user enquiries.
- Following established procedures and handling training, retrieve archive items from the stores for use in enquiries and in the search room, reshelving items afterwards.
- Contribute to discussions regarding continuous service improvement and the content of the engagement programme.
- Assist with building and managing stakeholder relationships (internal and external) to ensure customer satisfaction.
- Assist with research, special initiatives, lectures and exhibitions and other activities within the Archives forward plan.
- Occasional travel to sites across the UK to assist with outreach activities.
- Other duties delegated by the Head or Deputy Head of Archives.
Key requirements of the role:
In order for you to be successful in this post, we will be looking for you to submit a cover letter which addresses how you can meet each of the essential and desirable criteria (in up to 1,200 words), using examples of where you have demonstrated these criteria previously. Please ensure that you provide real life examples for each of the criteria to be considered for this post. You can use examples of how you have met this criteria from your work life, home life, education or volunteer experience.
Essential Criteria:
- A demonstrable commitment to heritage access and engagement work (for example archive, library or museum) as a career with experience of working in a heritage setting.
- Excellent attention to detail and proven ability to maintain a high level of accuracy and motivation when performing routine and repetitive tasks.
- Good written and verbal communication skills.
- Experience in delivering quality customer service in a friendly and professional manner.
- The ability to be a good team worker and to work with minimal supervision.
- A flexible approach and willingness to learn new skills, practices, procedures and to build a knowledge of the HES archives and library.
- A high standard of computer literacy and IT skills including using Microsoft Office – Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
- A minimum of 3 qualifications at SCQF Level 6, including English and Maths or demonstrable relevant experience.
We are dedicated to building a workforce which is reflective of diversity within Scotland. We warmly welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds, regardless of age, race, gender or gender identity, religious beliefs, marital status, sexual orientation, disability, or neurodiversity. In support of our Gaelic Language Plan, we welcome applications from Gaelic speakers.
We want every candidate to have the best chance to succeed during the recruitment process. If you require your application in an alternative format, please reach out to us via email at recruit@hes.scot or call our Head Office at 0131 668 8600 and speak to a member of our People Team.
Please note that, at this time, we are unfortunately unable to provide sponsorship as part of the recruitment process, therefore you must have current right to work in the UK to be considered for a post.
To submit your application online, please read our ‘How to Apply’ section followed by ‘Apply Now’ button to begin your application.
Archive Services Officer in Edinburgh employer: Historic Environment Scotland
Historic Environment Scotland is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that values professional development and employee well-being. With generous benefits including a Civil Service Pension scheme, flexible working hours, and opportunities for further education, employees are encouraged to grow within their roles while contributing to the preservation of Scotland's rich heritage. Located in the heart of Edinburgh, the company provides a unique chance to engage with one of Scotland’s National Collections, making it a rewarding place to work for those passionate about heritage access and engagement.
Contact Detail:
Historic Environment Scotland Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Archive Services Officer in Edinburgh
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the team and the organisation before your interview. Research Historic Environment Scotland, their values, and recent projects. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice common interview questions related to customer service and teamwork. Think about specific examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your skills and commitment to heritage access and engagement work.
✨Tip Number 3
Dress appropriately for the interview. While it’s important to be comfortable, showing that you take the opportunity seriously can make a great first impression. Aim for smart-casual if you're unsure!
✨Tip Number 4
After the interview, don’t forget to send a thank-you email! It’s a nice touch that shows your appreciation for the opportunity and reinforces your interest in the position. Plus, it keeps you on their radar!
We think you need these skills to ace Archive Services Officer in Edinburgh
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully:Before you start writing, give the job description a good read. It’s packed with info on what we’re looking for, so make sure you understand the key responsibilities and criteria. This will help you tailor your application to show us why you’re the perfect fit!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Address how you meet each of the essential and desirable criteria with real-life examples. We want to see your passion for heritage access and engagement, so don’t hold back on sharing your experiences!
Show Off Your Attention to Detail:We love candidates who pay attention to the little things. Make sure your application is free from typos and errors. A well-structured and clear application shows us that you can maintain accuracy, which is super important for this role.
Apply Through Our Website:When you’re ready to submit, make sure you do it through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re following the right process. Plus, it gives you a chance to double-check everything before hitting send!
How to prepare for a job interview at Historic Environment Scotland
✨Know Your Archives
Before the interview, dive deep into the history and collections of Historic Environment Scotland. Familiarise yourself with their archives, especially any recent projects or initiatives. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you answer questions about how you can contribute to their mission.
✨Showcase Your Customer Service Skills
Prepare specific examples from your past experiences where you've delivered excellent customer service. Whether it was in a previous job, during volunteer work, or even in educational settings, be ready to discuss how you handled inquiries and ensured satisfaction, as this role heavily involves engaging with the public.
✨Demonstrate Attention to Detail
Since the role requires maintaining accuracy while handling archives, think of instances where your attention to detail made a difference. Be prepared to share stories that highlight your ability to manage routine tasks meticulously, as this will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Engage with the Team Spirit
This position is all about teamwork, so come equipped with examples of how you've successfully collaborated with others. Discuss how you’ve contributed to team goals and adapted to different working styles, showcasing your flexibility and willingness to learn new skills.
