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- Tasks: Manage daily operations of a youth hostel and enhance guest experiences.
- Company: Join Hostelling Scotland, a non-profit charity dedicated to affordable travel.
- Benefits: Live-in accommodation, outdoor adventures, and a chance to make a difference.
- Why this job: Experience stunning landscapes while helping others discover the beauty of Scotland.
- Qualifications: Customer service experience and team management skills are essential.
- Other info: Ideal for those who thrive in independent roles and love the outdoors.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 £ per year.
Contract: Fixed Term Contract, Provisional start 09/Mar/2026 until 01/Nov/2026
Hours Per Week: 40 hpw during summer season - Opportunity for winter hours – Will be discussed at interview
Accommodation: Live-in accommodation available (Note: a small weekly utility levy applies.)
Are you passionate about running a youth hostel and sharing the real Scotland with guests? Do you want to enjoy the great outdoors and take advantage of hillwalking, climbing, and other activities right on your doorstep? At Cairngorm Lodge Youth Hostel, you’ll have the opportunity to experience this while helping others discover Scotland.
As part of Hostelling Scotland, a non-profit charity, you'll be contributing to our mission of providing affordable breaks for those who need it most, while also supporting youth programs aimed at developing life, learning, and work skills.
We’re looking for a self-motivated, enthusiastic individual to manage Cairngorm Lodge Youth Hostel, located in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park with stunning views over the Corries. A car is recommended, as we are in a remote location. The area offers fantastic hillwalking, wild swimming, road and mountain biking adventures, and more.
You’ll be part of a small team, often working independently, so this role is ideal for someone who thrives in such environments. Some catering experience would be beneficial, as we cater for in-house guests and takeaways, always striving to deliver high-quality food and meet budgetary targets while maintaining the highest standards of cleanliness and hygiene.
Key Responsibilities- Managing the day-to-day operations of the hostel, ensuring smooth business management.
- Delivering excellent customer service by maintaining a welcoming, clean, safe, and accessible environment for guests.
- Enhancing guest experiences and addressing feedback professionally.
- Ensuring health, safety, and security standards are met for both guests and staff at all times.
- Implementing operational plans, risk assessments, policies, and procedures to achieve Hostelling Scotland’s charitable goals and KPIs.
- Proven experience in a customer-facing role, with experience managing a small team in a similar hospitality setting (or similar).
- A commitment to providing excellent customer service.
- Strong communication skills (both verbal and written) and the ability to engage with people at all levels.
- A solid understanding of health and safety at work, with practical experience in monitoring and improving best practices.
- Business acumen, including financial and budget management experience.
- A strong understanding of data protection protocols.
- Understanding of hostel asset management and managing contracts/contractors.
- Flexibility and adaptability, with shift work, particularly during busy periods.
You must be able to present evidence of your right to work in the UK prior to start with us. You will also need to provide two satisfactory references and apply for a Basic Disclosure.
Please note: We do reserve the right to close this advertisement early if we receive a high volume of suitable applications.
Hostel Manager - Cairngorm Lodge YH in Aviemore employer: Hostelling Scotland
Contact Detail:
Hostelling Scotland Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Hostel Manager - Cairngorm Lodge YH in Aviemore
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the hostel scene! Research Cairngorm Lodge and similar hostels. Understanding their vibe and what makes them tick will help you tailor your approach during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with people in the hospitality industry, especially those who have worked in hostels. They can offer insider tips and might even put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your passion! When you get the chance to chat with the hiring team, let your enthusiasm for managing a youth hostel shine through. Share your love for Scotland and the outdoors!
✨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 team at Cairngorm Lodge.
We think you need these skills to ace Hostel Manager - Cairngorm Lodge YH in Aviemore
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for running a youth hostel shine through. Share why you love the outdoors and how you can help guests discover the beauty of Scotland. We want to see your personality!
Tailor Your Experience: Make sure to highlight your relevant experience in hospitality and customer service. We’re looking for someone who can manage a small team and deliver excellent service, so connect your past roles to what we need at Cairngorm Lodge.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to describe your skills and experiences, making it easy for us to see why you’d be a great fit for the role. Remember, less is often more!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the position. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hostelling Scotland
✨Know Your Hostel Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you research Cairngorm Lodge Youth Hostel thoroughly. Understand its mission, values, and the unique experiences it offers to guests. This will not only show your enthusiasm but also help you answer questions about how you can contribute to enhancing guest experiences.
✨Showcase Your Customer Service Skills
Prepare examples from your past experiences where you delivered excellent customer service or resolved issues effectively. Highlight your ability to create a welcoming environment and how you’ve handled feedback in a professional manner. This is crucial for a role that focuses on guest satisfaction.
✨Demonstrate Your Leadership Qualities
As a Hostel Manager, you'll be leading a small team. Be ready to discuss your management style and provide examples of how you've successfully managed a team in a hospitality setting. Emphasise your ability to motivate others and maintain high standards of cleanliness and hygiene.
✨Understand Health and Safety Protocols
Familiarise yourself with health and safety regulations relevant to the hospitality industry. Be prepared to discuss how you would ensure compliance and improve best practices at the hostel. This knowledge will be key in demonstrating your suitability for the role.
