Environment Assistant (Library)

University of Northampton; Northampton; On-site; GBP 10,000 - 40,000; Part time

Job summary

A prominent UK university is seeking a part-time Environment Assistant for its Library Operations Team. This role involves supporting library stock management, assisting users, and maintaining a conducive learning environment. Candidates should have GCSE level education and possess strong digital skills. The position offers 15 hours of work per week during term time and pays a competitive living wage.

Benefits

Competitive living wage

Opportunity for professional growth

Qualifications

• Educated to GCSE level or higher.
• Digitally literate with experience using MS Office.
• Able to work unsupervised and as part of a team.

Responsibilities

• Support the circulation and administration of library physical stock.
• Assist library users with routine enquiries.
• Maintain a high-quality library learning environment.

Skills

Attention to detail

Teamwork

Digital literacy

Education

GCSE level or equivalent

Tools

MS Office

Job description

About the Job

Part Time - Term Time: 15 hours per week, 40 weeks per year

Interview Date: 6 November 2025

The University of Northampton Library is seeking an Environment Assistant to work 40 weeks term time from noon to 3pm each day as part of our Library Operations Team. The Library is based within the University’s Learning Hub and the Environment Assistants provide support for the circulation and administration of library physical stock, such as books and journals. This includes shelving, stock maintenance and audits, and assisting in maintaining a high-quality library learning environment. Environment Assistants also help library users with routine enquiries.

We are an accredited Living Wage Foundation Employer and currently pay the real living wage. In recognition of this, the starting salary for this post has been increased to pay the higher amount which currently supersedes the actual first spinal point of Grade 2 salary before living wage.

About you

You will be educated to GCSE level or equivalent, or higher, and will be digitally literate with experience of using MS Office applications. You should also be able to work with a good attention to accuracy and detail, and have the ability to work both unsupervised and as part of a team.

You must also be physically able to carry out the requirements of the post with or without aid, which could include but is not limited to shelving books, resetting furniture and dismantling/assembling book shelving.

Please ensure that your application statement provides clear and specific examples to illustrate how you meet each essential criterion on the Job Description. Applicants that fail to do so will not be shortlisted.

Essential Qualification

• Education to GCSE level or equivalent

Department

Library, Learning and Student Services (LLSS) consists of the University Library & Archives, Learning Technology, Learning and Teaching Enhancement, and Student Services. The University Library provides adaptable and IT rich learning environments, with access to print and online resources, alongside expert support in finding information. Learning and Teaching Enhancement provides flexible opportunities for students to develop a broad range of academic skills, while Learning Technology manage NILE, the University’s virtual learning environment, and support the use of technology in learning and teaching. Student Services include disability support, counselling and mental health, student advice and welfare, international student support, the Student Information Desk and financial guidance.

About Us

At the University of Northampton, we are committed to supporting aspirations, creating opportunities, and delivering meaningful impact. Our people are at the heart of everything we do, and we foster a progressive, inclusive environment where excellence thrives for our students and staff.

Our People
Our staff are our greatest asset. We are dedicated to building an inclusive community that values diversity, promotes wellbeing, and supports personal and professional growth. By developing a first-rate People Strategy, we aim to attract and retain top talent, enhance career progression, and ensure that every colleague feels empowered to achieve their best.

Our Values

• Inclusivity: We celebrate diversity and ensure that everyone has the opportunity to excel.
• Sustainability: We are committed to becoming a net zero carbon institution, taking collective action for the benefit of society and the environment.
• Aspiration: We strive for excellence in all we do, empowering our staff, students, and partners to reach their highest potential.
• Trust: We build relationships based on respect, transparency, and shared goals.

Together, we are creating a future where our community, our work, and our impact truly make a difference.

Right to Work

All candidates will be asked to provide proof of eligibility to work in the UK at interview.

Due to the requirements laid out by UK Visas and Immigration regarding Right to Work in the UK, the University can only accept applications from individuals who currently have a status allowing them to work in the UK for this position. Due to this criteria we regret that we are unable to offer sponsorship at this time.

Equality

We welcome applications from individuals from underrepresented groups.

The University of Northampton is committed to providing a vibrant, ethical, and sustainable environment that values equality, diversity, and inclusion. Our commitment ensures an inclusive atmosphere for staff, students, and the public. We manage equality and diversity through key committees and formal policies, extending our responsibility to subsidiary companies and partnerships.

Together @ UON; Our Commitment to Equality and Inclusion. Together @ UON affirms our dedication to creating an environment that celebrates diversity and promotes equality. We aim to foster a space where all can thrive, aligning with our mission to transform lives and inspire change.

Commitments Include:

1. Creating an Inclusive Environment: Adopting a zero-tolerance approach to discrimination and ensuring all activities are inclusive.
2. Supporting Students and Staff: Strengthening mental health support, enhancing disability confidence, and ensuring academic and professional support.
3. Tackling Inequalities: Involving students in recruitment, integrating forums for equality data analysis, and supporting networks for protected characteristics.

UON’s Major Commitments:

• Disability Confident
• Standalone Pledge
• IHRA Working Definition

For more details, the University notes Equality and Diversity at UON.