Collections Assistant

Summary

We seek an individual passionate about history and attentive to detail, who is approachable and engaging with visitors. This role involves caring for a historic residence and its valuable collection of artifacts, furniture, and art pieces. It also includes sharing the story of these treasures with guests to ensure a memorable and enjoyable experience for every visitor.

About the Role

This iconic English country estate is lively and bustling—a venue that attracted 450,000 visitors last year with increasing attendance. There are various opportunities to contribute across the property. As a Collections Assistant, you will collaborate with a supportive housekeeping team within a fascinating historical environment. Your duties will involve routine cleaning and preservation of delicate collections including artworks, textiles, furniture, and antiques integral to the house's heritage.

You will monitor environments closely for changes or signs of damage, such as wear and tear, and meticulously maintain records. Support to collections and house volunteers may also be required. Additionally, engaging with visitors by discussing your responsibilities and the collections you uphold is a key component of this position.

Ideal Candidate Profile

• Possesses excellent manual dexterity and comfortable working at heights using ladders or scaffolding
• Adaptable and able to work flexibly in different situations
• Dedicated to providing exceptional service to all visitors
• Works effectively both in a team setting and independently using initiative
• Organized, versatile, and eager to acquire new skills

Employee Benefits

• A generous pension plan contributing up to 10% of your basic salary
• Complimentary admission to National Trust properties for you, a guest, and children under 18
• Access to a rental deposit loan scheme
• Season ticket loan program
• Electric vehicle car lease scheme for eligible roles
• Discounts on gym memberships, shopping, and cinema tickets through Perks at Work
• Annual leave entitlement up to 32 days, increasing with length of service; option to purchase additional leave subject to criteria
• Flexible working arrangements where feasible
• Employee assistance program
• Free parking available at most Trust locations

Additional Information

The recruitment process requires completion of an online assessment instead of a traditional CV submission to better understand your skills and provide detailed role information. The interview is scheduled for 4th November 2026. Applications close on 25th October 2026. Candidates must be eligible to work in the UK.

If applicants require any accommodations during the hiring process due to disability or medical conditions, support is available upon request.

Equal Opportunities and Safeguarding

The National Trust is dedicated to fostering an inclusive workplace that reflects the diversity of the communities we serve. Discrimination of any form is not tolerated. We also maintain rigorous recruitment standards to ensure the safety of children, young people, and adults at risk, declining applicants who do not meet these safeguarding criteria.