At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist Housing Officers with property management and support homelessness initiatives.
- Company: Join the Council Offices in Kirkwall, dedicated to community housing services.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary and the opportunity for professional development.
- Other info: Must be able to travel within Orkney; Level 1 Disclosure Scotland Clearance required.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in your community while gaining valuable experience in housing services.
- Qualifications: Confident communicator with excellent IT skills; training provided for housing law certification.
The predicted salary is between 29010 - 29594 £ per year.
Location: Council Offices Kirkwall Orkney, KW15 1NY
Salary: £29,010 - £29,594 per year
Contract Type: Permanent
Position Type: Full Time
Hours: 35 hours per week
Advert
EDUCATION, COMMUNITIES AND HOUSING
Housing Services
Housing Assistant
35 hours per week
Permanent
We have a vacancy for a dedicated individual, to join our Housing team.
This is a varied role which assists both our Homelessness and Advice and Housing Management teams in the management of properties and provides support to Housing Officers.
Duties will include assisting Housing Officers on ensuring data on homelessness is recorded as required by the Scottish Government, assisting Housing Officers with paperwork on arrears and tenancy breach work, assisting with the process of making empty properties (including emergency properties) available for re-let including the purchase and acquisition of furniture.
In addition, this will involve accompanying Housing Officers on home visits / interviews as required. The post will also include drafting a range of legal notices and the administration of various processes including consultations and mailshots.
To be successful you will be a confident communicator who is diplomatic and tactful with a positive approach to tackling issues. You will have the ability to work with the minimum of supervision as part of a team and will have the ability to work under pressure.
The post also requires that you have an appreciation of local housing issues affecting the Council housing sector and can demonstrate excellent IT skills.
You will be required to hold or complete the Professional Development Award in Housing Law for Advisers at the first intake following appointment.
You will be required to attend training courses within and outwith Orkney.
You should be able to travel efficiently and effectively between work locations within Orkney to meet the operational requirements of the Service.
This post requires Level 1 Disclosure Scotland Clearance.
Prospective applicants are invited to discuss the post by contacting Moira Adamson, Team Manager (Housing and Homelessness), on 01856 873535 extension 2173, or Moira.Adamson@orkney.gov.uk
Closing Date: 23:59 on Sunday 31 August 2025
Please note that interview expenses are not payable for this post.
#J-18808-LjbffrHousing Assistant in Kirkwall employer: Orkney Islands Council
Join our dedicated Housing team at the Council Offices in Kirkwall, Orkney, where we prioritise a supportive work culture and professional development. As a Housing Assistant, you will benefit from a permanent full-time position with competitive salary, opportunities for training, and the chance to make a meaningful impact in the community. Our commitment to employee growth and a collaborative environment makes us an excellent employer for those seeking a rewarding career in housing services.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Housing Assistant in Kirkwall
✨Dive into Local Government Events
Get yourself to local government events and public sector job fairs. These are great for meeting recruiters and understanding what different organisations, like Orkney Islands Council, are looking for. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the sector!
✨Join Relevant Networks
Look for communities focused on public sector careers. Whether it’s local networking groups or online forums, connecting with professionals in the field can provide insider knowledge and opportunities that you won’t find on typical job boards.
✨Utilise Your University’s Resources
If you’re freshly graduated or still studying, make the most of your university's careers service. They often have exclusive partnerships with companies like Orkney Islands Council and can help you get your foot in the door for these full-time public sector roles.
✨Stay Updated with Government Initiatives
Keep your finger on the pulse regarding new government projects and policies. Understanding current initiatives can give you a leg up in interviews, showing that you are informed and genuinely interested in making a difference in the public sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Housing Assistant in Kirkwall
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for Orkney Islands Council and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Orkney Islands Council
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Orkney Islands Council, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration
The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for Orkney Islands Council.
