At a Glance
- Tasks: Welcome and support visitors at our historic mansion, delivering engaging tours and experiences.
- Company: Join the National Trust at Castle Ward, a stunning 18th-century mansion.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, flexible hours, and perks like free entry to National Trust sites.
- Other info: Flexible working, substantial pension scheme, and discounts on various services.
- Why this job: Be part of a passionate team preserving history and creating memorable experiences for visitors.
- Qualifications: Great customer service skills, team player, adaptable, and eager to learn.
The predicted salary is between 12 - 12 € per hour.
We're looking for a Service Assistant to join us at Castle Ward in the County Down Portfolio to help support the House & Collections team in our historic mansion.
Salary: £12.75 per hour
Contract/duration: Fixed term contract until 31-Dec-2026
Hours/working pattern: Seasonal, flexible, weekends. This is a zero-hour contract, meaning we can't guarantee a set number of hours each week. While we aim to provide a consistent work pattern, flexibility is needed as schedules may change based on business needs. We'll try to give as much notice as possible. The role includes weekends and Bank Holidays but does not require evening or split shifts.
For this role, you'll need to complete our online assessment instead of using a C.V. or online application form. This will help us understand more about your strengths and give you more information on the role.
What it's like to work here: Castle Ward is a unique 18th-century mansion famed for its mixture of architectural styles and interiors. One half is built in the classical Palladian style, while the other half - which faces out across Strangford Lough - is built in the more elaborate Gothic Side. The estate has been home to both 8 generations of the Ward family, along with their servants and friends. There are many fascinating stories and histories to share with our visitors of all generations and backgrounds, along with new history being made every day!
Reporting to the Collections & House Manager, you'll be part of a passionate House team of 7 staff and over 40 volunteers working at Castle Ward in the County Down portfolio. In the wider portfolio team, everyone brings their own knowledge and passion to their specialist areas to ensure this place is looked after for everyone for ever.
What you'll be doing: You will perform an integral role in greeting and supporting visitors in our historic mansion. This can range from delivering tours or acting as the day leader to a group of volunteers on our self-guided days. You are responsible for bringing our visitor experience to life in house and ensuring our visitors learn all there is to know about Castle Ward. No two days will be the same. You can expect to meet many different people and gain experience in different visitor areas. You will contribute towards keeping our visitors safe as well as our highly significant collections. You will liaise with the House Team leads and duty manager regularly to ensure the smooth running of the house offer during busy weekends and event days.
We are seeking people who are passionate about history and the National Trust and able to communicate this vital message to our visitors. Being able to build relationships with both staff and our dedicated house volunteers is integral. The role requires someone who is adaptable and can make decisions based on the needs of our visitors and the historic house.
Who we're looking for: We'd love to hear from you if you're:
- focused on giving great service to everyone you meet
- a team player, but also happy to work on your own initiative
- well-organised and adaptable
- willing to learn new skills
The package: The National Trust has the motto 'For everyone, for ever' at its heart. We're working hard to create an inclusive culture, where everyone feels they belong. It's important that our people reflect and represent the diversity of the communities and audiences we serve. We welcome and value difference, so when we say we're for everyone, we want everyone to be welcome in our teams too.
- Substantial pension scheme of up to 10% basic salary
- Free entry to National Trust places for you, a guest and your children (under 18)
- Rental deposit loan scheme
- Season ticket loan
- EV car lease scheme (for roles that meet the salary criteria)
- Perks at work discounts such as gym memberships, shopping discount codes, cinema discounts
- Holiday allowance up to 32 days relating to length of service, plus holiday purchase scheme, subject to meeting minimum criteria.
- Flexible working whenever possible
- Employee assistance programme
- Free parking at most Trust places
To be considered for this role you will be redirected to and must complete the application process on our careers page. To start the process, click the Apply button below to Login/Register.
Service Assistant TLNT1_NI employer: IrishJobs
Working as a Service Assistant at Castle Ward offers a unique opportunity to be part of a passionate team dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich history of this stunning 18th-century mansion. With a strong focus on inclusivity, employee growth, and a range of benefits including a substantial pension scheme and flexible working arrangements, the National Trust ensures that every team member feels valued and empowered. Join us in creating memorable experiences for visitors while enjoying the beauty of County Down.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Service Assistant TLNT1_NI
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know Castle Ward! Familiarise yourself with its history and unique features. This will not only help you in the online assessment but also impress during any interviews or discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills. Since you'll be interacting with visitors, being able to convey information clearly and engagingly is key. Try explaining a historical fact to a friend or family member!
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for service! Think of examples where you've gone above and beyond for someone. This will help you stand out as someone who truly cares about visitor experiences.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! Completing the online assessment is crucial, so make sure you set aside some time to focus on it. We want to see your strengths shine through!
We think you need these skills to ace Service Assistant TLNT1_NI
Some tips for your application 🫡
Get to Know Castle Ward:Before you start your application, take some time to learn about Castle Ward and its unique history. This will not only help you in the online assessment but also show us your genuine interest in the role and the National Trust.
Be Yourself:When completing the online assessment, let your personality shine through! We want to see the real you, so don’t be afraid to share your passion for history and visitor service. Authenticity goes a long way!
Show Your Flexibility:Since this is a zero-hour contract, it’s important to highlight your adaptability in your responses. Let us know how you can handle changing schedules and still provide great service to our visitors.
Follow the Application Process:Make sure to apply through our website as instructed. Completing the online assessment is key, so don’t skip this step! It’s designed to help us understand your strengths and fit for the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at IrishJobs
✨Know Your History
Brush up on the history of Castle Ward and its architectural styles. Being able to share interesting facts or stories during your interview will show your passion for the role and the National Trust.
✨Showcase Your People Skills
Since the role involves greeting and supporting visitors, be prepared to discuss your experience in customer service. Think of examples where you've gone above and beyond to help someone, as this will highlight your commitment to great service.
✨Flexibility is Key
Given the zero-hour contract and the need for adaptability, be ready to talk about how you handle changing schedules. Share instances where you've successfully adapted to unexpected situations or worked independently.
✨Team Player Vibes
Emphasise your ability to work well in a team, especially with volunteers. Prepare to discuss how you've built relationships in previous roles and how you can contribute to a positive team environment at Castle Ward.
