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- Tasks: Help coordinate and deliver a project focused on Scotland's churches.
- Company: Join the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland, dedicated to preserving heritage.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, pension contributions, and flexible working hours.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on community heritage while working in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: No specific qualifications required; passion for heritage and community engagement is key.
- Other info: Hybrid working model with opportunities for community engagement and event organization.
The predicted salary is between 24200 - 33680 ÂŁ per year.
The Society of Antiquaries of Scotland are looking to hire a new member of staff to help co-ordinate and deliver the Finding Futures for Scotland’s Churches Project.
Working closely with Scotland’s Churches Trust, this role will collate country-wide information on both heritage and community value of Scotland’s churches. This will include collating existing information and where knowledge gaps are identified, co-ordinating heritage surveys, and engaging community-representative groups to undertake community value assessment applying the University of Stirling’s Social Value Toolkit. It will also involve setting up and supporting a network of key stakeholders.
Role: Research Officer– full-time, fixed term for two years.
Salary: ÂŁ29,200 per annum, with an additional 10% pension contribution.
Contract : 24 months (2 years)
Hours: 37.5 hours (five days) per week with flexible daytime working hours on Monday–Friday, and an occasional requirement to assist at evening or weekend events with time of in lieu (TOIL) given for overtime provided.
Location : Hybrid working – all staff are expected to work from our office at the National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh at least twice per week (pro rata). Employees starting in a new role will be required to work from the office more regularly in the first instance. Please note that there are several flights of stairs up to the Society offices, although we are happy to explore different ways of working.
Main Responsibilities
- Support the Head of Research and respective Directors of Scotland’s Churches Trust and the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland in project delivery
- Undertake a rapid needs assessment of Scotland’s church buildings, including both desk-based and proactive survey
- Create and maintain a database to store and share information
- Commission the creation of and maintain the project microsite, including adding regular work updates and project database
- Work with at least five community groups to undertake heritage survey using the Recording Churches Project
- Commission at least five community-representative organisations to undertake community value survey using the University of Stirling’s Social Value Toolkit methodology
- Support the work of the Finding Futures Action Group as secretariat
- Organise a symposium, workshops, and other project events as required
- Provide updated information to any relevant stakeholder (for example, to create updates to the Canmore database or Local Authority Historic Environment Record)
- Provide written reports and updates as required, and contribute to final project reporting
Job details
A full job description and more information about the project is available on our website.
How to apply
Submit a CV and a cover letter outlining how your experience, skills and knowledge meets the requirements (cover letter to be no more than two sides of A4) by the closing date to the Head of Research, Dr Helen Spencer FSAScot
Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed in person in Edinburgh or online via Zoom on Wednesday 2 April 2025 . Reasonable travel expenses can be claimed.
Closing date: 11:59 PM, Wednesday 26 March 2025
Research Officer: Finding Futures for Scotland's Churches employer: Society of Antiquaries of Scotland
Contact Detail:
Society of Antiquaries of Scotland Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Officer: Finding Futures for Scotland's Churches
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarize yourself with Scotland's Churches Trust and the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland. Understanding their missions, values, and current projects will help you align your discussions during interviews and show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the heritage and community engagement sectors. Attend relevant events or workshops to meet potential colleagues and stakeholders, which can provide valuable insights and connections that may benefit your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with community engagement and heritage surveys. Think of specific examples where you've successfully collaborated with community groups or conducted assessments, as these will be crucial in demonstrating your fit for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Be ready to showcase your organizational skills and ability to manage multiple tasks. This role involves coordinating various activities and stakeholders, so having examples of how you've effectively managed similar responsibilities in the past will strengthen your candidacy.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Officer: Finding Futures for Scotland's Churches
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Take the time to thoroughly read the job description for the Research Officer position. Make sure you understand the key responsibilities and how your skills align with them.
Tailor Your CV: Customize your CV to highlight relevant experience, particularly in research, community engagement, and project management. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to meet the job requirements.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that clearly outlines how your experience and skills match the needs of the project. Be concise and ensure it does not exceed two sides of A4. Mention your enthusiasm for working with Scotland’s Churches Trust and the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread both your CV and cover letter. Check for any spelling or grammatical errors, and ensure that all information is accurate and presented professionally.
How to prepare for a job interview at Society of Antiquaries of Scotland
✨Know the Project Inside Out
Make sure you thoroughly understand the Finding Futures for Scotland's Churches Project. Familiarize yourself with its goals, the stakeholders involved, and the methodologies like the University of Stirling’s Social Value Toolkit. This will show your genuine interest and preparedness.
✨Highlight Relevant Experience
When discussing your background, focus on experiences that relate to heritage surveys, community engagement, or project management. Be ready to provide specific examples of how you've successfully coordinated similar projects or worked with community groups.
✨Prepare Questions for the Interviewers
Think of insightful questions to ask about the project, the team, and the expectations for the role. This demonstrates your enthusiasm and helps you gauge if the position aligns with your career goals.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As this role involves engaging with various stakeholders and community groups, be prepared to discuss how you effectively communicate and collaborate with diverse audiences. Share examples of past experiences where your communication skills made a difference.
