At a Glance
- Tasks: Be the friendly face of our festival, ensuring visitors have an amazing experience.
- Company: Join the UK's largest visual art festival and be part of something special.
- Benefits: Earn £13.45 per hour with flexible part-time or full-time roles.
- Other info: We value diversity and encourage applications from all backgrounds.
- Why this job: Make connections in the arts while helping to showcase incredible visual projects.
- Qualifications: Enthusiasm and a passion for art are key; no prior experience needed!
The predicted salary is between 27000 - 28000 £ per year.
About Us
EAF (Edinburgh Art Festival) is the UK's largest annual festival of visual art. The festival was founded in 2004 to provide a dedicated platform for the visual arts at the heart of Edinburgh's summer festivals. EAF cultivates connections between communities, artists and collaborators to develop contemporary visual art projects. Every August, we present the UK's largest visual art festival that is rooted in Edinburgh and Scotland, with global dialogue. Our year-round Civic programme allows us to work year-round, building ongoing relationships with local artists, initiatives, and communities.
About the Role
We are seeking enthusiastic, friendly and engaged individuals to join our team and provide an outstanding visitor experience. Programme Assistants will play a key role in the festival, being the first point of contact for visitors to our programme, whilst playing an important role in ensuring the security of artworks, and the safety of visitors and staff. In 2026 Programme Assistants will be based across a range of sites and venues relating to: our Commissions Programme; the EAF welcome space and wider events programme.
Apply: by sending a CV and cover letter (max 2 pages), by email, outlining how your skills and experience meet the requirements of the job, to Alice Keen, Festival Manager at and quoting Programme Assistant in the email subject header.
Deadline: midnight on Monday 1 June
Interviews: TBC
EAF is committed to creating a more equitable and inclusive arts sector. We actively encourage applications from individuals who are underrepresented in the visual arts, including those from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds, disabled people, LGBTQ+ communities, and those from lower socio-economic backgrounds. We are committed to making our recruitment process as accessible as possible. If you require this information in an alternative format, or need support at any stage of the application process, please get in touch and we will do our best to accommodate your needs.
Programme Assistant - Front of House employer: Job Search Place Limited
EAF is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that celebrates creativity and community engagement in the heart of Edinburgh. With a commitment to inclusivity and employee development, we provide meaningful opportunities for growth within the arts sector, making it an ideal place for those passionate about visual arts and community connection.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Programme Assistant - Front of House
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the festival! Dive into the Edinburgh Art Festival's past events and current projects. This will not only help you understand their vibe but also give you some great talking points during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to people who have worked at EAF or similar festivals. A friendly chat can lead to insider tips and maybe even a recommendation. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the role!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions. Think about how your skills align with providing an outstanding visitor experience. We want to see your enthusiasm shine through!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the easiest way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to engage with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Programme Assistant - Front of House
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Programme Assistant role. Highlight any relevant experience you have in customer service or the arts, and don’t forget to showcase your enthusiasm for visual arts!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about the Edinburgh Art Festival and how your skills align with the role. Keep it concise and engaging – we want to see your personality!
Follow the Application Instructions:Be sure to follow the application instructions carefully. Send your CV and cover letter via email to Alice Keen, and remember to include 'Programme Assistant' in the subject line. It shows us you pay attention to detail!
Show Your Enthusiasm:We love seeing candidates who are genuinely excited about the role! In both your CV and cover letter, let us know what draws you to the Programme Assistant position and the festival itself. Your passion can really make you stand out!
How to prepare for a job interview at Job Search Place Limited
✨Know the Festival Inside Out
Before your interview, dive deep into the Edinburgh Art Festival's history, mission, and current projects. Familiarise yourself with their past exhibitions and community initiatives. This knowledge will not only impress but also show your genuine interest in being part of their team.
✨Showcase Your People Skills
As a Programme Assistant, you'll be the first point of contact for visitors. Prepare examples of how you've provided excellent customer service or handled difficult situations in the past. Highlight your friendly and engaging personality, as this is key to creating an outstanding visitor experience.
✨Demonstrate Your Passion for the Arts
Express your enthusiasm for visual arts during the interview. Share any relevant experiences, whether it's attending art events, volunteering, or even personal projects. This will help you connect with the interviewers and show that you're aligned with the festival's values.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare a few insightful questions about the role and the festival. This could be about their upcoming projects or how they engage with local communities. Asking questions shows your interest and helps you determine if the role is the right fit for you.
