At a Glance
- Tasks: Join us in preserving Scotland's heritage through hands-on conservation and maintenance work.
- Company: Historic Environment Scotland, a charity dedicated to protecting our historic environment.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous leave, pension scheme, and free entry to all properties.
- Other info: Flexible hours and training opportunities available for personal development.
- Why this job: Make a real difference by working at iconic sites like Urquhart Castle.
- Qualifications: Experience with lime mortars and small plant operation is essential.
The predicted salary is between 27740 - 27740 £ per year.
Starting salary: £27,740
Contract type: Permanent
Grade: 1
Location: Urquhart Castle
Working Hours: Full Time - 1932 hours per year (annualised hours)
Interviews: w/c 3rd August 2026
Thank you for your interest in the post of Labourer with Historic Environment Scotland, based at Urquhart Castle. This is a permanent and pensionable appointment. As part of the Monument Conservation Unit you will have responsibility for the on-going implementation of conservation, routine maintenance and presentation tasks of Historic Environment Scotland monuments within the Area.
About us: We are the lead body for Scotland's historic environment; a charity dedicated to the advancement of heritage, culture, education and environmental protection. We're at the forefront of researching and understanding the historic environment and addressing the impact of climate change on its future. We investigate and record architectural and archaeological sites and landscapes across Scotland and care for more than 300 properties of national importance. We have a People Strategy, which is an overarching strategy to ensure we support and develop staff within the organisation.
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:
- Mixing of both lime and cement mortars and transportation to and from working area (Training as required)
- Operation of plant equipment (training as required)
- Upkeep & maintenance of small plant and equipment
- Providing semi-skilled assistance to enable the tradespersons to carry out their duties along with basic masonry conservation after training
- Throughout your employment with HES you will be required to attend training courses identified to assist the work, or to comply with health and safety legislation, including First Aid (training as required, this may require overnight stays away from home)
- Keeping the working site clean and tidy
- Key grounds maintenance works and repairs, including turf repairs, weed control, landscape management etc. (training for {PA1 & PA6 pesticides} plus any other training as required)
- Car park and transport facilitation including snow clearance
- Basic responsive repairs as requested by visitor operation via the Property Maintenance & Compliance Manager
- This work would at times be carried out at height and in relatively confined spaces
- All operations will be carried out in a considerate and courteous manner
- Delivery of an effective and appropriate service to all service users, fairly and without discrimination
- Transporting MCU staff, plant, equipment and materials from depot to various sites within the region (training as required)
- Ad hoc responsive maintenance requirements as directed by the Property Maintenance & Compliance Manager
Key requirements of the role:
In order for you to be successful in this post, we will be looking for you to complete a cover letter which addresses:
- Why you are interested in the post with Historic Environment Scotland
- How you can meet each of the essential and desirable criteria (in up to 800 words), using examples of where you have used these skills in the past. 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.
Please read our CV and Cover Letter Guidance first before completing, as you will only be eligible for selection if you use examples of how you meet the essential and desirable criteria.
Essential Criteria:
- Good all-round understanding and practical experience of using lime mortars
- Good understanding of Health & Safety
- Operation of small plant and equipment such as cement mixers etc.
- Working with different types of mortar and mix proportions
- Good hand eye co-ordination
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.
Labourer - Urquhart Castle and Highlands in Inverness employer: Historic Environment Scotland
Historic Environment Scotland (HES) is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to contribute to the preservation of Scotland's rich heritage while advancing your legal career. With a collaborative work culture, employees benefit from professional development opportunities and the chance to engage in meaningful projects that have a real impact on the community. Located in a vibrant environment, HES fosters a supportive atmosphere where innovation and teamwork thrive, making it an ideal place for those seeking a rewarding role in the legal field.
Contact Details:
Historic Environment Scotland Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Labourer - Urquhart Castle and Highlands in Inverness
✨Get Your Hands Dirty
In skilled trades, practical experience is everything. Consider volunteering or doing odd jobs in your area to build up your skills and visibility. Local businesses often appreciate helping hands and it might just lead to a full-time gig!
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Look into joining organisations specific to your trade (like the National Federation of Builders or similar). They often have job boards, networking events, and apprenticeships that can put you in touch with employers who value skilled workers. Plus, being part of these communities adds credibility to your profiles!
✨Showcase Your Work Online
Craft a portfolio that highlights your craftsmanship—before and after photos, project descriptions, and client testimonials are all golden! Share this on platforms that cater to skilled trades, like Instagram or dedicated forums, to attract potential employers looking for your skillset.
✨Apply Directly and Follow Up
Don’t just rely on job boards—visit local businesses, introduce yourself, and drop off your CV. Building rapport face-to-face can work wonders in the skilled trades sector. And remember, following up after applying through our website shows dedication; it might just give you an edge over other candidates!
We think you need these skills to ace Labourer - Urquhart Castle and Highlands in Inverness
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Skills with Certificates:In the skilled trades world, your practical skills and certifications are key! Make sure you highlight any relevant qualifications or training you've completed. If you’ve got a trade-specific certificate, like an NVQ or City & Guilds, include it in your CV to catch Historic Environment Scotland's eye.
Tailor Your CV to the Job:Don’t just send out a generic CV; tailor it specifically for the skilled trades role at Historic Environment Scotland. Emphasise your hands-on experience, the tools and techniques you’re proficient in, and any notifiable compliance standards you've met. This shows that you’ve put thought into your application.
Highlight Your Projects or Achievements:Don’t forget to showcase any significant projects or achievements in your cover letter. Whether it’s completing a complex installation or meeting deadlines on a large project, these details make a big difference. They help paint a picture of your expertise and dedication!
Keep It Concise and Relevant:When applying for a full-time role in skilled trades, keep your writing to the point. Hiring managers appreciate clear, concise applications. Focus on relevant experiences and skills, and avoid fluff. Remember, they’re looking for someone who can get the job done—so show them you can!
How to prepare for a job interview at Historic Environment Scotland
✨Master the Hands-On Skills
In skilled trades, practical skills matter a ton. Be ready to showcase your hands-on abilities during the interview—whether it's through a practical test or a demonstration of your craftsmanship. Bring your best examples of past projects to discuss them in detail!
✨Know Your Tools Like the Back of Your Hand
Employers in the skilled trades often want to hear about your proficiency with specific tools and equipment. Brush up on the tools relevant to your field and be prepared to discuss your experiences using them. This shows you’re not just experienced but also safe and competent.
✨Be Ready to Talk About Safety Practices
Safety is paramount in skilled trades. Be prepared to discuss your knowledge of safety regulations and how you've implemented them in previous roles. This will demonstrate your commitment to a safe working environment—a quality that employers highly value.
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
When tackling skilled trade roles, employers want to know about your ability to think on your feet. Be ready with examples of how you've solved unexpected problems on the job. This will illustrate your adaptability and resourcefulness, key traits for a full-time position at Historic Environment Scotland.
