Collections Assistants (Kickstart)

Collections Assistants x 2 (Kickstart)

The New Forest Heritage Centre is proud to be taking part in the new government-funded Kickstart Scheme. The scheme provides funding to create new job placements for 16 to 24 year olds who are on Universal Credit and at risk of long-term unemployment.

You are only eligible to apply for a Kickstart role if:

• You are aged 16 to 24 years old
• You are claiming Universal Credit
• You have been allocated a Work Coach with Jobcentre Plus

If you meet all three criteria, please read on!

As a Collections Assistant your main responsibilities will be cataloguing and documenting the collections within the New Forest Heritage Centre’s museum, reference library, and archive. You will also assist with and develop skills in the digitisation process, including scanning and photographing, and using image processing software. You will also assist with other curatorial tasks including cleaning and repackaging objects using preservation grade materials, and environmental monitoring such as checking pest traps and taking light readings.

The successful applicants will be expected to ensure the library is ready for visitors in the mornings, reshelve books, and ensure it is kept tidy. They will be observant while in the library with regard to the safety and security of the collections, ensure correct protocol is followed, and be prepared to assist with visitor enquiries where possible

If you would like to apply, please ensure you meet the eligibility criteria set out above and the essential criteria set out in the role profile. Then contact your Work Coach at Jobcentre Plus for a referral.

Once referred, please submit a CV and covering letter outlining: why you want the job; how you meet the requirements; and what you will bring to the team. These roles are 37 hours a week, at the National Minimum Wage.

What skills and experience do you need?

• Some basic IT skills are required for this role, and familiarity with Microsoft Office, especially Word and Excel would be beneficial.
• A recognition of the need to handle the collections carefully and safely are required.
• An ability to work within a library environment and understand the arrangements within it is essential, as is an interest in the history of the New Forest.
• The successful applicants will have good communication skills and an ability to liaise with the rest of the team. They will be able to work independently as well as follow written instructions with good attention to detail.

What’s in it for you?

• The successful applicant will receive mentoring to develop their IT skills if required and will be trained in carrying out basic curatorial tasks in line with industry best practice.
• They will learn about the New Forest, its histories, and how it operates.
• They will receive support in searching catalogues and navigating their way around the collections.
• They will also have the opportunity of mentoring in how they might be successful in gaining further employment and will be offered constructive feedback

Closing date:       As soon as both posts are filled

Please be aware that due to the number of potential candidates we reserve the right to fill these posts before the closing date.

For application queries or an informal discussion please email kath.walker@newforestheritage.org.uk or call Kath Walker on 02380 286156

You can contact your Work Coach in the usual way – via email, phone or via your Universal Credit journal.