Gallery Assistant – Temporary

Closing date 13 February 2024

Reports to: Gallery Coordinator and Registrar
Role: Based within the RSA Galleries this position will provide exhibition supervision and installation assistance for the Royal Scottish Academy exhibitions programme between the dates of the contract (outlined below)
Hours: There are currently several three, four and five day-per-week positions available.
Location: Royal Scottish Academy, The Mound, Edinburgh EH2 2EL

About the Royal Scottish Academy

The Royal Scottish Academy supports art and architecture in Scotland. Founded in 1826, we are an independent, non-governmental institution governed by our Members. Known as Royal Scottish Academicians, our Members are eminent artists and architects.

The Role
Your key duties will include:

  • Safeguarding the integrity of the artworks on exhibition.
  • Assisting with the exhibition installation and take-down.
  • Proactively engaging with exhibition visitors to ensure that all visitors have the best possible experience.
  • Ensuring the visitor code of conduct is upheld.
  • Participating in gallery tours / educational events as and when required.
  • Selling tickets and exhibition catalogues (including cash handling and credit card sales).
  • Working with artists and participants to assist with exhibition-based events.
  • Representing the Royal Scottish Academy and our work in a public setting.
  • Sharing knowledge and appreciation of the artworks on view with visitors.
  • Ensuring that high standards of presentation are always maintained in the gallery.

Required Skills / Qualifications

The RSA is looking for an enthusiastic, confident and creative person with the following skills and experience:

  • A knowledge of, and interest in, Scottish contemporary art.
  • Previous retail and/or customer service experience would be desirable.
  • Experience of working independently in a small team.
  • Excellent public communication skills and ability to speak confidently about artwork.
  • Ability to work independently and prioritise.
  • Artwork handling skills and some knowledge of exhibition installation.
  • The postholder will be expected to be outgoing and professional, representing the Royal Scottish Academy and Scottish contemporary artists during high-profile exhibitions.

Mentoring assistance and training is available.

Remuneration: £10.42 per hour, rising to £11.44 from April 2024
Hours: worked after 5pm paid at time and a half
Contract Type: Fixed term: 17 March – 23 June 2024 (exact start date subject to shift pattern)
Shift information: Monday to Saturday shifts begin at 9:45am, ending at 5pm. Two fifteen-minute breaks and a half hour lunch. Sunday shifts begin at 11:45am, ending at 5pm and one half hour break. Breaks are paid.
Annual leave: Pro rata annual leave allowance

Application Process
Applicants should submit a cover letter detailing their experience, with accompanying CV including contact details for a referee (preferably a most recent employer). Please indicate your preference for how many days a week you would prefer to work with a minimum of three days and what days of the week you are available.

Please submit your application by email to Romey Clark: [email protected].
Application deadline: Tuesday 13 February, 12 noon. Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.

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