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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Support library services, promote resources, and assist with enquiries in a scientific environment.
- Company: Join UKRI India, part of the Science and Technology Facilities Council.
- Benefits: Annual salary increases, 30 days holiday, flexible hours, and excellent learning opportunities.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career in a dynamic library setting while gaining valuable skills.
- Qualifications: GCSEs in Maths, English, and Science; enthusiasm for learning and customer service.
- Other info: Enjoy a supportive workplace with a focus on equality and diversity.
The predicted salary is between 800 - 1000 £ per month.
Apply for the Library and Information Assistant Apprentice role at UKRI India – an apprenticeship within the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC) library services.
Job Details
- Contract Type: Fixed‑Term, 24 months
- Hours: Full‑time, 37 hours per week
- Location: Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, Harwell Campus, Didcot, OX11 0QX
- Closing Date: Sunday, 2nd February 2026
- Interview Date: Feb 2026 / Mar 2026
- Start Date: September 2026
- Salary: £19,514 per annum (rising annually throughout the apprenticeship)
Responsibilities
- Support the marketing and promotion of services and resources (preparing and updating guidance documents, intranet pages, display screens)
- Contribute to the submission of materials into the publication and data repositories, updating metadata and quality checking of records
- Act as the first point of contact for a range of services, including time on the library enquiry desk and triaging complex enquiries to the relevant team members
- Participate in service development through active engagement in team meetings and liaising with library users
Qualifications Gained
- Level 3 Library, Information and Archive Services Assistant (LIAS)
- Level 3 Library, Information and Archive Services Assistant – Skills England
Entry Requirements
- GCSEs in Maths, English and Science (Grade 4/C or above)
- Basic awareness of health and safety
- Enthusiasm and motivation to learn in the workplace and through formal training
- Interest in working in a scientific library and information environment
- Excellent customer service skills
- Ability to work with colleagues at all organisational levels
- Attention to detail and ability to follow detailed instructions
- Self‑motivated with experience in managing time and priorities
Desirable
- Further academic qualifications (e.g. A levels, BTEC or undergraduate degree)
- Experience of using tools to find information (catalogues, databases, web resources)
Important Information
- You must evidence passes at 9‑4 or A*‑C in GCSE (or equivalent) Maths and English
- Residency eligibility criteria must be met (please check your eligibility)
- The training provider will ask you to complete an initial assessment during the application process
- By applying, you give permission for your details to be shared with the relevant training provider
Employee Benefits
- Salary increases annually throughout the apprenticeship
- 30 days holiday (plus 10½ bank holidays and additional privileged days)
- Flexible working hours
- Defined contribution pension scheme
- Accessible public transport links and free parking
- Excellent learning and development opportunities
- Cycle‑to‑work scheme
How To Apply
Submit an online application with a CV and a cover letter that addresses how you meet each essential criterion and explains your motivation for UKRI and the role. Include the job reference number in the filename of each document. Note that failure to address the criteria or to submit a cover letter may result in the application not being considered. Applications will be assessed in shortlisting and interview stages. The vacancy may close early if a sufficient number of applications have been received.
Equality, Diversity, Inclusion & Disability
UKRI believes everyone has a right to be treated with dignity and respect and to have equal opportunities. We are a Disability Confident Employer and will provide reasonable accommodation for candidates with disabilities.
About UKRI
UKRI brings together the seven disciplinary research councils, Research England and Innovate UK to support and develop research and innovation across the UK.
Library and Information Assistant Apprentice employer: UKRI India
Contact Detail:
UKRI India Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Library and Information Assistant Apprentice
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the library and information sector! Research UKRI and the STFC library services. Understanding their mission and values will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your customer service skills! Since you'll be the first point of contact, think about how you can handle enquiries effectively. Role-play with a friend or family member to get comfortable with different scenarios.
✨Tip Number 3
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former apprentices at UKRI on LinkedIn. They can share insights about the application process and what it’s really like working there, which can give you an edge.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, make sure your CV and cover letter highlight your enthusiasm for learning and your attention to detail – those are key for this role!
We think you need these skills to ace Library and Information Assistant Apprentice
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Library and Information Assistant Apprentice role. Highlight relevant experiences, skills, and qualifications that match the job description. We want to see how you fit into our team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Address how you meet each essential criterion and share your motivation for wanting to join UKRI. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm for the role come through.
Follow the Application Guidelines: Don’t forget to include the job reference number in the filename of your documents. Following our application guidelines shows attention to detail, which is super important for this role!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us without any hiccups!
How to prepare for a job interview at UKRI India
✨Know Your Role Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Library and Information Assistant Apprentice. Familiarise yourself with tasks like supporting marketing efforts, managing enquiries, and contributing to service development. This will help you answer questions confidently and show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Show Off Your Customer Service Skills
Since excellent customer service is key for this position, prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully assisted others. Think about times when you triaged complex enquiries or provided support at a service desk. Highlighting these moments will demonstrate your capability and enthusiasm for helping library users.
✨Prepare Questions to Ask
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the library services, team dynamics, or opportunities for professional development. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the environment is right for you. Plus, it gives you a chance to engage with your interviewers.
✨Practice Makes Perfect
Conduct mock interviews with friends or family to practice your responses. Focus on articulating your motivation for applying and how your skills align with the job requirements. The more comfortable you are speaking about your experiences, the more confident you'll feel during the actual interview.
