At a Glance
- Tasks: Transcribe confidential information into accessible formats while meeting deadlines.
- Company: Join All Formats, a leading transcription company supporting students with disabilities for over 25 years.
- Benefits: Enjoy perks like flexible working, fitness centre access, and employee assistance programmes.
- Other info: Full training provided, with opportunities for career progression and personal development.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while developing your skills in an inclusive environment.
- Qualifications: No experience needed; just bring your Microsoft Office skills and a passion for helping others.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 22000 £ per year.
Transcription Officer
Application Deadline: 2 June 2026
Department: All Formats
Employment Type: Permanent - Full Time
Location: Harborne, Birmingham, UK
Compensation: £24,493 - £26,455 / year
Description
The post holder will be expected to produce transcription documents in Braille, Audio, and Large Print within deadlines, in line with commercial contract specifications and service level agreements. This is a fantastic opportunity to join All Formats, one of the UK’s leading accessible format transcription companies established over 25 years ago. All Formats is part of Queen Alexandra College, a college that supports students with a wide range of disabilities. Any profits generated by All Formats go directly back into the college to help enhance our students’ learning journey.
As an entry‑level position, no prior experience is required; full training will be provided. A high level of competence in Microsoft Office software such as Word is a must, along with good verbal and written communication skills, excellent time‑management and organisational skills. A customer‑focused approach, attention to detail, and the ability to work accurately and calmly under strict deadlines are essential. Candidates must be flexible to assist in meeting fluctuating deadlines across various areas of the business.
Key Responsibilities
Core Role Responsibilities
- To provide required transcriptions for all live projects, ensuring these are produced within Service Level Agreements.
- Reconcile the delivery with client instructions; prepare received data for scanning and the transcription process.
- Use a wide variety of specialist software to produce items in the preferred format.
- Prepare and complete basic maintenance on equipment to be used for transcription purposes (e.g. printers, Braille embossers, scanners).
- Liaise with colleagues and manager to ensure the department is aware of outstanding work against the SLA.
- Liaise with clients regarding live projects and within the team assist with providing daily and monthly reports.
- Collate relevant data on completed jobs, in preparation for invoicing.
- Follow essential security protocols as necessary for the business.
- Respond to incoming enquiries from potential clients via email and/or telephone, providing information and quotes as required.
- Monitor All Formats stock levels for transcription stationery and postal services, informing relevant individuals to ensure orders can be progressed.
- Facilitate postal duties, as commensurate with the role.
- Provide support for a range of QAC Enterprise activities, and represent the team at events, where appropriate.
- Occasionally distribute printed marketing materials for College Enterprises.
General Duties
- Work with the All Formats Manager to implement improvement projects/initiatives across the enterprise and services.
- Adhere to the College’s Health and Safety Policy at all times, recognising responsibility for own safety and that of others.
- Act at all times in accordance with the Staff Code of Conduct and QAC Values of Respect, Excellence, Enabling, Collaboration and Inclusion.
- Comply with all College policies and procedures.
- Maintain CPD and undertake appropriate training and development as required, including any mandatory and/or refresher training required for the role.
- Undertake other duties as commensurate with the role and in agreement with the All Formats Manager.
Transcriptions Officer (Extended Role)
- Prepare and transcribe documents across the full range of formats.
- Support on‑the‑job training and quality control/consistency checking of documents for new Transcription Officer colleagues.
- Produce reports as requested by the Team Leader and/or All Formats Manager/Deputy Manager.
- Undertake training and/or qualifications to develop specialist skills and expertise, e.g. Braille.
- Undertake designated work or ad hoc projects, as determined by the All Formats Manager/Deputy, in line with specialist skills and experience.
- Cover the Transcription / Production areas in the absence of Team Leaders, including assigning work, ensuring work is completed within SLA and reporting any issues to All Formats Manager.
The above list is not exhaustive, but is indicative of the general nature and level of responsibility of the work to be undertaken. Responsibilities and duties may vary from time to time without changing the nature of the post. The post holder will be expected to adopt a flexible approach to enable efficient and effective running of the College.
Safeguarding Statement
Queen Alexandra College is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility and all staff and volunteers are required to act in a way that safeguards the health and wellbeing of our students/clients. Successful applicants will be subject to an enhanced DBS check.
Skills, Knowledge and Expertise
- GCSE English or Equivalent
- Understanding of Data Protection/GDPR
- Meticulous attention to detail, with ability to concentrate for long periods of time
- Flexible and adaptable communication style
- Able to work with conflicting demands whilst meeting deadlines
- Able to work effectively both independently and as part of a team
- Able to work on your own initiative
- Proficiency in MS Office applications (MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access and Outlook)
- Strong commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion; identifies with and demonstrates QAC Vision and Values and FREDIE (Fairness, Respect, Equality, Diversity, Inclusion and Engagement)
Benefits
Schedule 1 Benefits (reviewed annually and/or as appropriate)
Academic Year 2024/25
- Access to on‑site car parking
- Use of QAC Fitness Centre (subject to opening hours)
- Cycle to Work Scheme (Salary Sacrifice)
- 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme Helpline (BHSF)
- Access to Education Support Free Helpline for Teachers & Education Staff
- QAC Mental Health First Aiders & activities to support health and wellbeing
- BHSF Benefits Package including Healthcare Plans, discounted shopping/services
- Annual Flu vaccination/voucher
- Access to other benefit/discount schemes (may be subject to charge) e.g. Blue Light Card, TOTUM (NUS), Charity Worker Discounts, Discounts for Teachers
- Dell Advantage programme – a free programme that offers savings to students, parents and all staff at QAC – up to 20% off: https://www.dell.com/en-uk/lp/dell-advantage
- Health and Wellbeing Services (Occupational Health/Counselling)
- Free Tea/Coffee and Staff Room facilities
- Dining Room facilities with hot/cold food (free meal provided for those supporting students at mealtimes)
- Additional discretionary concessionary/closure days as part of leave entitlement (including closure over Christmas/New Year period)
- Reward and Recognition Policy – Living the Values Awards (team & individual) and long service
- Enhanced/Occupational paid leave e.g. maternity/paternity (subject to qualifying criteria)
- Occupational sick pay (based on length of service)
- On‑site wellbeing activities (e.g. yoga, meditation)
- Support for training/CPD (either by way of study leave and/or funding)
- Flexible working arrangements including Flexible Working Policy Agreements, Time Off in Lieu (TOIL) in prior agreement with line manager.
This list is not exhaustive and may be subject to review and/or change.
Transcription Officer employer: Queen Alexandra College
Join All Formats, a leading accessible format transcription company based in Harborne, Birmingham, where your work directly supports students with disabilities at Queen Alexandra College. We pride ourselves on a vibrant and inclusive work culture that fosters personal and professional growth, offering comprehensive training and development opportunities. With a strong commitment to employee wellbeing, we provide a range of benefits including access to fitness facilities, mental health support, and flexible working arrangements, making it an excellent place for those looking to make a meaningful impact in education.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Transcription Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific software and tools used in transcription. Since the role requires proficiency in Microsoft Office, especially Word, consider brushing up on your skills or exploring online tutorials to enhance your efficiency.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your time management skills by setting personal deadlines for tasks. This will help you demonstrate your ability to work under pressure and meet strict deadlines, which is crucial for this position.
✨Tip Number 3
Engage with the community around accessibility and inclusion. Understanding the needs of individuals with disabilities can give you valuable insights that will resonate during your interview and show your commitment to the college's mission.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for the in-tray exercise by practising how to prioritise tasks effectively. Simulate scenarios where you have to manage multiple projects at once, as this will help you showcase your organisational skills during the interview process.
We think you need these skills to ace Transcription Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights relevant skills and experiences that align with the job description. Emphasise your proficiency in Microsoft Office, attention to detail, and any customer service experience.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter:Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for supporting students with disabilities and your commitment to inclusivity. Mention how your skills can contribute to the mission of All Formats and Queen Alexandra College.
Highlight Relevant Skills:In your application, specifically mention your communication skills, time management abilities, and flexibility. These are key attributes for the Transcription Officer role, so make them stand out.
Proofread Your Application:Before submitting, carefully proofread your application for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for this position.
How to prepare for a job interview at Queen Alexandra College
✨Know Your Software
Since proficiency in Microsoft Office, especially Word, is crucial for this role, make sure to brush up on your skills. Familiarise yourself with formatting documents and using templates, as these will likely come up during the interview.
✨Demonstrate Attention to Detail
This position requires meticulous attention to detail. Be prepared to discuss examples from your past experiences where you successfully managed tasks that required precision and accuracy, even under tight deadlines.
✨Understand the Company’s Mission
All Formats is dedicated to supporting students with disabilities. Show your understanding of their mission and values during the interview. This will demonstrate your alignment with their goals and your commitment to making a difference.
✨Prepare for the In-Tray Exercise
As part of the interview process, you'll likely face an in-tray exercise. Practice managing multiple tasks and prioritising effectively. This will help you showcase your organisational skills and ability to work under pressure.
