At a Glance
- Tasks: Engage communities and deliver exciting activities for a groundbreaking film project.
- Company: Join a diverse and inclusive university committed to community engagement.
- Benefits: Flexible working arrangements, professional development, and a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Make rural film history accessible and connect with diverse audiences.
- Qualifications: Strong communication skills, community engagement experience, and organisational abilities.
- Other info: Part-time role until October 2026 with excellent career growth opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 £ per year.
Part Time / Fixed Term till 30th October 2026. The closing date for applications is 23.59 on 8th February 2026. This role is not eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship. The successful candidate(s) must have the right to work in the UK or be able to secure this through another means without sponsorship of the University.
We are seeking an Engagement Officer to deliver an activity plan programme for the Inclusive approaches to accessing rural archive film project. This groundbreaking project will make the Richard Watts rural film collection accessible to diverse audiences. The collection, largely undigitized, represents a significant holding of reel‑to‑reel films documenting rural life and agriculture and the postholder will be responsible for delivering an exciting programme of consultation and activity with community groups and stakeholders. The role will work alongside Reading‑based Real Time Participatory Film Makers and the Project Archivist. The role has been funded with the support of the British Film Institute Screen Heritage Fund, awarding National Lottery funding.
Required skills and experience include:
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Experience of community engagement
- Strong organisational skills
- Experience of working in a library and archive
- Understanding of data collection and evaluation
We welcome applications from both external and internal candidates. As part of the University’s ongoing commitment to professional development, this role can be considered on a seconded basis for existing staff members. Internal candidates should discuss this with their line manager prior to applying.
Interview date: 18th February 2026.
The University is committed to having a diverse and inclusive workforce, supports the gender equality Athena SWAN Charter and the Race Equality Charter, and champions LGBT+ equality. We are a Disability Confident Employer (Level 2). Applications for job‑share, part‑time and flexible working arrangements are welcomed and will be considered in line with business needs.
Engagement Officer (BFI Project) in Reading employer: University of Reading
Contact Detail:
University of Reading Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Engagement Officer (BFI Project) in Reading
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, especially those involved in community engagement or film projects. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that might just land you the job.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion! When you get the chance to speak with potential employers, let your enthusiasm for rural film and community engagement shine through. Share your ideas on how to make the Richard Watts collection accessible to diverse audiences.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by researching the British Film Institute and their initiatives. Knowing their goals will help you align your answers with what they value, making you a standout candidate.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team and contributing to this exciting project.
We think you need these skills to ace Engagement Officer (BFI Project) in Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully: Before you start writing, make sure to read through the job description thoroughly. We want to see how your skills and experiences align with what we're looking for, so highlight those connections in your application!
Show Off Your Communication Skills: As an Engagement Officer, strong communication is key! Use your application to demonstrate your interpersonal skills. Share examples of how you've engaged with community groups or stakeholders in the past – we love a good story!
Be Organised and Clear: Keep your application neat and structured. We appreciate clarity, so use headings and bullet points where necessary. This will help us easily see your relevant experience and skills, making it easier for us to consider you for the role.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy – just follow the prompts!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Reading
✨Know the Project Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the BFI project and its goals. Familiarise yourself with the Richard Watts rural film collection and think about how you can engage diverse audiences. This knowledge will help you answer questions confidently and show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Showcase Your Community Engagement Skills
Since this role involves working closely with community groups, be prepared to discuss your previous experiences in community engagement. Share specific examples of how you've successfully connected with different audiences and what strategies you used to ensure their participation.
✨Demonstrate Organisational Prowess
The role requires strong organisational skills, so come ready to talk about how you manage projects and activities. Consider sharing a time when you had to juggle multiple tasks or events, and explain how you kept everything on track while meeting deadlines.
✨Prepare Questions for the Interviewers
Interviews are a two-way street, so think of insightful questions to ask Phillippa and Isabel. Inquire about their vision for the project or how they measure success in community engagement. This shows that you're not only interested in the position but also invested in the project's future.