Job Description

We're looking for a Service Assistant at Polesden Lacey to join our busy house and collections team and help us welcome visitors to the house throughout our Christmas offer. The Service Assistant is one of the most valuable roles here at the house with it being the first part of the house visit

giving all our visitors a warm welcome.

If you enjoy working outside in all weathers, in a fast-paced environment in both a team or independently, communicating with others and different logistics, then this role may be for you.

Salary

: 12.25 per hour

Contract/duration:

Fixed Term Contract until 05-Jan-202

Hours/working pattern/hours

: This is a zero-hour role meaning there is no set number of guaranteed hours per week. Shifts will vary depending on operational needs. There are flexible hours available which includes

weekend shifts, school holidays and bank holidays

; to be discussed at interview. Typically shifts are a full day shift which is 5-7hrs with a 30 min break.

Potential start date:

21st November 2025

Interview Dates:

28 th October and 30 th October 2025

For this role, you'll need to complete our online assessment instead of using a C.V. or online application form. This will help us understand more about your strengths and give you more information on the role.

What it's like to work here:Christmas is a magical and exciting time to work at Polesden Lacey. The days are busy, as we welcome up to 2,500 visitors every day who are keen to enjoy the festive season with us. Throughout the Christmas season, the house and grounds are beautifully decorated to match our chosen theme, which this year is 'Alice's Christmas in Wonderland'. A popular part of the Christmas visit is always the house with a steady stream of visitors coming inside each day to make memories, take photographs and have fun with family and friends.


Polesden Lacey is a picturesque Edwardian mansion and grounds, located just four miles outside of Dorking. You're likely to need your own transport to get here as it is not on a bus route. Cycle storage and electric vehicle charging is available, along with separate staff parking.


Click here for more information about this location



What you'll be doing:The core part of your job will be to give vital and positive support to your colleagues, wherever you're needed. There will be a strong focus on greeting and welcoming visitors to the house and ensuring they have everything they need to enjoy their time at Polesden Lacey.


No two days will be the same. You can expect to meet many different people. You'll get involved in all kinds of tasks, including preparing the house before opening and greeting visitors on their arrival to the house. This is an outdoor role so suitable clothing and footwear for cold weather is essential.


Most importantly, you'll be talking to visitors, answering their questions and making sure they can find everything they need to enjoy their day.



Who we're looking forWe'd love to hear from you if you're:


focused on giving great service to everyone you meet a team player, but also happy to work on your own initiative well-organised and adaptable willing to learn new skills.

The packageThe National Trust has the motto 'For everyone, for ever' at its heart. We're working hard to create an inclusive culture, where everyone feels they belong. It's important that our people reflect and represent the diversity of the communities and audiences we serve. We welcome and value difference, so when we say we're for everyone, we want everyone to be welcome in our teams too.


Substantial pension scheme of up to 10% basic salary Free entry to National Trust places for you, a guest and your children (under 18) Rental deposit loan scheme Season ticket loan EV car lease scheme Perks at work discounts such as gym memberships, shopping discount codes, cinema discounts Holiday allowance up to 32 days relating to length of service, plus holiday purchase scheme, subject to meeting minimum criteria. Flexible working whenever possible Employee assistance programme Free parking at most Trust places

Requirements :Compliance.Eligibility to Work in the UK

Fixed Term p/t (until 05/01/26)