At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist guests with check-in/out, enquiries, and maintain hostel cleanliness.
- Company: Join a non-profit charity dedicated to helping guests explore Scotland.
- Benefits: Enjoy membership perks, employee assistance, pension, and uniform provided.
- Other info: Flexible hours with opportunities for personal growth and adventure.
- Why this job: Perfect for outdoor lovers wanting to meet new people and gain experience.
- Qualifications: Great communication skills and ability to work in a team.
The predicted salary is between 27300 - 27300 £ per year.
Location: Edinburgh Youth Hostel, (EH7 4AL)
Contract: Fixed Term Contract – Provisional Start date 05/Jun/2026 until 31/Oct/2026
Hours per week: 22.5hrs
Salary: £13.00 per hour
Accommodation: This is a Live out position
Do you enjoy outdoor activities and exploring your surroundings in your spare time? From cities to islands, beaches to hills or mountains and all points in between, our youth hostels provide the perfect base for field trips, activity breaks or cultural tours. Hosting is open to all. We are a non‑profit charity, and we take our responsibilities seriously, helping guests of all ages and backgrounds to discover and experience all that is Scotland.
As a Hostel Assistant, you will be undertaking a range of hostel duties including:
- Full reception service
- Check‑in/out
- Handling customer enquiries
- Cleaning & housekeeping
- Basic catering duties
You should be adaptable, as workloads & priorities can change during the busy periods. Naturally a great communicator who loves to work as part of a team. Someone who can support and respect their colleagues, as some of the teams live in depending on location.
In Return We Offer:
- Membership of Hostelling Scotland - so you too can enjoy the wonderful locations of our hostels and experience the great service that our guests receive when it is your time away from work.
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Pension and holidays
- Uniform is provided
Additional Information:
A successful candidate is required to provide one satisfactory reference and a recent Basic Disclosure clearance. You must be able to provide evidence of your right to work in the UK before starting with us.
How To Apply:
If you would like to apply please visit our website www.hostellingscotland.org.uk/careers to learn about how we process job applicants’ information and apply through our website.
Closing Date: 29th May 2026
Interview: 26th//27th May 2026
Please note: We do reserve the right to close this advertisement early if we receive a high volume of suitable applications.
Part-Time Hostel Front Desk & Guest Services employer: Hostelling Scotland
As a non-profit charity, we pride ourselves on fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment at the Edinburgh Youth Hostel. Our team members enjoy unique benefits such as membership to Hostelling Scotland, allowing them to explore our beautiful hostels across the country, alongside a comprehensive Employee Assistance Programme and pension scheme. With a focus on employee growth and teamwork, we offer a rewarding opportunity for those passionate about hospitality and outdoor activities in the heart of Scotland.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Part-Time Hostel Front Desk & Guest Services
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the hostel vibe! Before your interview, check out the Edinburgh Youth Hostel's social media and website. This will help you understand their culture and values, making it easier for you to connect during your chat.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your people skills! As a Hostel Assistant, you'll be interacting with guests from all walks of life. Role-play common scenarios with friends or family to boost your confidence and show off your communication skills.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to showcase your adaptability! The job description mentions changing workloads, so think of examples from your past where you've successfully handled unexpected situations. This will demonstrate your flexibility and problem-solving abilities.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining the team. Don’t forget to highlight your passion for outdoor activities and teamwork in your application!
We think you need these skills to ace Part-Time Hostel Front Desk & Guest Services
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Hospitality:When writing your application, let your love for hospitality shine through! Share any experiences you've had in customer service or working in a team. We want to see that you’re excited about helping guests and making their stay memorable.
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Hostel Assistant role. Highlight relevant skills like communication, adaptability, and teamwork. We appreciate when applicants take the time to connect their experiences with what we’re looking for!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon. We want to understand your qualifications and enthusiasm without having to sift through unnecessary fluff!
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 role. Plus, you can find all the info you need about the application process there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hostelling Scotland
✨Know the Hostel Inside Out
Before your interview, take some time to research the Edinburgh Youth Hostel and its services. Familiarise yourself with their mission, values, and the types of guests they cater to. This will show your genuine interest in the role and help you answer questions more effectively.
✨Show Off Your Communication Skills
As a Hostel Assistant, you'll be interacting with guests from all walks of life. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Think of examples from your past experiences where you've successfully handled customer enquiries or resolved issues, as this will demonstrate your ability to communicate well.
✨Be Ready for Adaptability Questions
The job requires adaptability during busy periods, so prepare for questions about how you've managed changing workloads in the past. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers and highlight your flexibility and teamwork skills.
✨Dress the Part and Bring Your Enthusiasm
While the role is casual, it's important to present yourself professionally. Dress smartly and bring a positive attitude to the interview. Show your passion for outdoor activities and hospitality, as this aligns with the hostel's ethos and will make you stand out as a candidate.
