At a Glance
- Tasks: Ensure a safe environment, provide excellent customer service, and assist with sports activities.
- Company: Join Sport Lancaster, a vibrant team at the University of Lancaster.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, diverse work environment, and opportunities for personal growth.
- Why this job: Be part of an inspiring team shaping the future of sport and fitness.
- Qualifications: Must have RLSS UK lifeguard qualification and great communication skills.
- Other info: Flexible shift patterns and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 27000 £ per year.
Location: Bailrigg, Lancaster, UK
Salary: £23,580 (Full-time indefinite)
Closing Date: Wednesday 11 February 2026
Interview Date: To be confirmed
Reference: 1005-25
Be part of something inspirational. Sport Lancaster has recently undergone an exciting period of change and development, creating a wide range of opportunities within a dynamic and evolving environment. Joining the team at this stage offers a unique opportunity to help shape the future of sport at the University.
Significant investment has been made in Sport Lancaster in recent years, including a new 8-court badminton sports hall completed in June 2020, contributing to an outstanding sports facility. The Sport Lancaster team operate a purpose-built Sports Centre featuring an 8.5m climbing wall, multi-function sports halls, swimming pool, sauna and steam room, 100-station Technogym fitness suite and squash courts. We also manage extensive outdoor facilities including rugby pitches, 3G surfaces and tennis courts. The Sports Centre is owned and managed by the University and is open to students, staff and the local community, as well as hosting several national events each year. Our knowledgeable team aim to inspire people of all abilities to be physically active in a welcoming, fully accessible environment.
Role and Responsibilities
As a Recreation Assistant, you will work as part of a team to ensure a safe environment and high levels of customer service. Duties include lifeguarding, cleaning tasks, setting up sport areas and moving equipment safely.
Shift Work: This role involves shift work including early mornings, evenings, weekends, University closure days and bank holidays. You must be able to start and finish at the following times:
- Monday–Friday: Early shifts 5.30am start / Late shifts 10.30pm finish
- Weekends: Early shifts 7.00am start / Late shifts 6.30pm finish
You must hold a current RLSS UK lifeguard qualification (or equivalent), have lifeguarding experience, excellent communication skills and a positive, customer-focused attitude, with the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Qualifications and Requirements
- Current RLSS UK lifeguard qualification (or equivalent)
- Lifeguarding experience
- Excellent communication skills
- Positive, customer-focused attitude
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
How to Apply and Contact
For informal enquiries, please contact Chris Mitchell at c.mitchell3@lancaster.ac.uk. We welcome applications from people in all diversity groups.
Further Details
Please note: unless specified otherwise in the advert, all advertised roles are UK based. Find out what it’s like to work at Lancaster University, including information on our wide range of employee benefits, support networks and our policies and facilities for a family-friendly workplace. The University recognises and celebrates good employment practice undertaken to address all inequality in higher education whilst promoting the importance and wellbeing for all our colleagues. We warmly welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of their age, religion, gender identity or expression, race, disability or sexual orientation, and are committed to promoting diversity, and equality of opportunity.
Recreation Assistant - 1005-25 employer: Lancaster University
Contact Detail:
Lancaster University Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Recreation Assistant - 1005-25
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the Sport Lancaster vibe! Visit the Sports Centre, chat with staff, and soak up the atmosphere. This will help you understand what they value and how you can fit in.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current employees on LinkedIn or at local events. A friendly face can make all the difference when it comes to landing that Recreation Assistant role.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your lifeguarding skills! If you have the chance, volunteer at community events or local pools. This not only boosts your CV but also demonstrates your commitment to safety and customer service.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about joining our team!
We think you need these skills to ace Recreation Assistant - 1005-25
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Sport: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for sports and recreation shine through. We want to see how you can contribute to our vibrant community at Sport Lancaster!
Highlight Relevant Experience: Make sure to detail any lifeguarding experience or qualifications you have. We’re looking for candidates who can demonstrate their skills and commitment to safety in a recreational environment.
Tailor Your Application: Don’t just send a generic application! Take the time to tailor your CV and cover letter to the Recreation Assistant role. We love seeing how your unique experiences align with what we’re looking for.
Apply Through Our Website: For the best chance of success, make sure to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and keep track of all the amazing candidates like you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Lancaster University
✨Know Your Role Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Recreation Assistant. Familiarise yourself with lifeguarding protocols, customer service expectations, and the facilities available at the Sports Centre. This will help you answer questions confidently and show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As communication is key in this role, prepare examples of how you've effectively communicated in previous jobs or experiences. Think about times when you resolved conflicts, assisted customers, or worked as part of a team. Practising these scenarios can help you articulate your skills during the interview.
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
The job requires working both independently and as part of a team. Be ready to discuss your experiences in team settings, highlighting how you contribute positively to group dynamics. Mention any specific instances where you supported colleagues or collaborated on projects to achieve common goals.
✨Prepare for Shift Work Questions
Since the role involves shift work, be prepared to discuss your availability and flexibility. Think about how you manage your time and commitments, especially during early mornings and late evenings. Showing that you're adaptable and willing to meet the demands of the job will impress the interviewers.