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- Tasks: As a Careers Adviser, you'll provide career guidance and support individuals in their career planning.
- Company: Skills Development Scotland is the national skills agency focused on driving productivity and inclusive growth.
- Benefits: Enjoy progressive benefits, employee wellbeing initiatives, and a supportive work culture.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by helping others achieve their career potential in a vibrant community.
- Qualifications: You need a recognised qualification in Career Development and strong coaching skills.
- Other info: This full-time role is based in Galashiels, with travel required across the Borders.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 ÂŁ per year.
ers – Skills Development Scotland
Join to apply for the Careers Adviser role at Skills Development Scotland and help shape Scotland’s skills future.
Pay & Benefits
Pay range is provided by Skills Development Scotland. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience – talk with your recruiter to learn more.
We offer a wide variety of progressive benefits and working practices. Click here to see the full range of our Benefits.
About the Role
To deliver the role of Careers Adviser at SDS, it is essential that you possess the Career Development Institute (CDI) UK‑recognised professional accredited Qualification in Career Development (QCD or its predecessor equivalent) and Post Graduate Diploma in Career Guidance and Development. Current students pending completion in May 2024 will be considered.
In your role as Careers Adviser, you’ll be delivering impartial career guidance, developing career management skills and supporting individuals to plan and manage their career decisions, now and in the future, including services which respond to those facing redundancy.
You’ll be able to demonstrate strong interview, group work and coaching skills with a sound knowledge and understanding of policy, theory and practice in the field of career guidance and you will work with and through a range of partner agencies to engage, inspire, motivate and encourage clients to achieve their full potential.
Work Environment
Our East Lothian CIAG team is a supportive and creative group based in East Lothian. You will work with a full locality model and will have opportunities to support people with a wide range of aspirations from careers in science and technology to hospitality and care.
SDS – National Skills Agency
Skills Development Scotland is the national skills agency. Our ambition is to drive productivity and inclusive growth through investment in skills, enabling businesses and people to achieve their potential. Find out more about SDS here.
Values
- We put the needs of our customers at the heart of all we do.
- We make use of our combined strengths and expertise to deliver the best outcomes.
- We demonstrate self‑motivation, personal responsibility, and respect.
- We continually improve to achieve excellence.
Equality & Inclusion
At SDS we are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion. We encourage applications from the right candidates regardless of age, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, belief or race. To support our ambitions our application process is anonymised. Therefore, while we want to know about your relevant skills and experience, please avoid disclosing any identifying characteristics.
Application Process
The closing date to submit your application is Sunday 18th January 2026. Due to the festive period, interviews will take place week commencing 26th January 2026.
More information on the interview format will be made available if you are invited to interview. To find out more about working at SDS and our application process please visit https://www.skillsdevelopmentscotland.co.uk/work-with-us/.
If you would like to discuss the role in more detail, contact chris.brand@sds.co.uk.
Seniority Level
Not Applicable
Employment Type
Temporary
Job Function
Education
Industries
Non‑profit Organizations, Primary and Secondary Education, and Higher Education
Referrals
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Careers Adviser employer: Skills Development Scotland
Contact Detail:
Skills Development Scotland Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Careers Adviser
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in career guidance and development. This will not only help you during interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to staying updated in the field.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current Careers Advisers or professionals in the field. Engaging with them can provide valuable insights into the role and may even lead to referrals, increasing your chances of landing the job.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for potential interview scenarios by practising your coaching and group work skills. Role-playing common situations you might encounter as a Careers Adviser can boost your confidence and performance.
✨Tip Number 4
Research Skills Development Scotland's values and mission thoroughly. Tailoring your responses to align with their organisational culture during the interview can make a strong impression on the hiring team.
We think you need these skills to ace Careers Adviser
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Careers Adviser position. Familiarise yourself with the qualifications needed, such as the Career Development Institute (CDI) accredited Qualification in Career Development and the Post Graduate Diploma in Career Guidance and Development.
Tailor Your CV: Craft your CV to highlight relevant experience and skills that align with the job description. Emphasise your interview, group work, and coaching skills, as well as any experience working with partner agencies or in career guidance.
Write a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should express your passion for the role and how your background makes you a suitable candidate. Mention specific examples of how you've helped individuals manage their career decisions and demonstrate your understanding of the current economic climate affecting career guidance.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread all documents for spelling and grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial in a role like this.
How to prepare for a job interview at Skills Development Scotland
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Careers Adviser. Familiarise yourself with the key skills required, such as delivering impartial career guidance and developing career management skills. This will help you articulate how your experience aligns with the role.
✨Showcase Your Qualifications
Since the role requires specific qualifications like the CDI-recognised Qualification in Career Development, be prepared to discuss your educational background and how it has equipped you for this position. Highlight any relevant training or certifications that demonstrate your expertise.
✨Demonstrate Your Coaching Skills
As a Careers Adviser, strong coaching and interview skills are essential. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully guided individuals or groups. This will showcase your ability to inspire and motivate clients effectively.
✨Align with Company Values
Skills Development Scotland places great importance on their organisational values. Research these values and think about how your personal values align with them. Be ready to discuss how you can contribute to their mission of driving productivity and inclusive growth.
