Heritage Ambassador (Museum Volunteer) - SFRS02688

Scottish Fire and Rescue Service; Newbridge; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A community-focused fire service in Scotland is seeking dedicated volunteers as Heritage Ambassadors to support the Museum of Scottish Fire Heritage. Responsibilities include welcoming visitors, providing information, and assisting with museum operations. This role offers a unique opportunity to engage with the public while sharing the history of firefighting. Training and support will be provided, along with the chance to gain valuable experience in the cultural sector.

Benefits

Training and support

Opportunity to develop skills

Meaningful voluntary work experience

Qualifications

• Commitment to volunteering and interest in the history of firefighting.
• Willingness to undertake training and adhere to instructions.
• Ability to engage with visitors of all ages.

Responsibilities

• Welcome visitors and provide general information.
• Greet visitors in galleries and maintain a safe environment.
• Assist with administrative tasks and special events.

Skills

Enjoy working with others

Strong communication skills

Ability to provide information

Job description

Overview

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) invites applications for the volunteer role of Heritage Ambassador based at the Museum of Scottish Fire Heritage, 1A Dryden Terrace, Edinburgh.

About the Museum

The Museum of Scottish Fire Heritage is operated by the SFRS as part of our community Fire Station on McDonald Road in Edinburgh. The museum is our flagship site and represents firefighters from all over Scotland, telling their stories and reflecting the diverse challenges of our different communities, sharing firefighters' unique ways of life. The museum celebrates the heritage of Scotland's fire service.

Who are Heritage Ambassadors

Our Heritage Ambassadors are essential to helping the museum reach its aims and objective. From being forward facing to the public and educational groups there are a variety of roles you can get involved in. We are looking for people who genuinely enjoy working with others and have a desire to share the history of firefighting. Full training, travel expenses and support will be provided to selected Heritage Ambassadors.

Why be a Heritage Ambassador

We are committed to providing the best possible volunteering experience for everyone who gives their time to the SFRS with a view to helping us share our rich and interesting history. In addition to a supportive and encouraging environment, and the unique opportunity to support the Museum of Scottish Fire Heritage and the wider SFRS community, you will gain:

• Training and support to develop as an integral part of our team
• Opportunity to develop your transferrable skills and experience within the museum and cultural sector
• Undertake meaningful voluntary work experience which could enrich your CV
• The opportunity to spend time doing something you enjoy and meet others with similar interests

Specific Heritage Ambassador Roles

Volunteers work closely under the guidance and supervision of SFRS Heritage staff, contributing to the museum's operations, though they do not carry the same organisational responsibilities as paid staff members. Volunteers are required to defer to SFRS Heritage Staff regarding museum operations.

Front of House

• Welcome visitors and provide general information
• Answer phone calls and direct enquiries
• Assist in the gift shop with sales, restocking, and tidiness
• Use the point-of-sale (POS) system for basic transactions
• Provide support to families (e.g. access, facilities)
• Maintain a clean and organised reception area
• Support with admin tasks, such as booking tours
• Assist with special events as directed
• Defer maintenance issues or incidents to staff

Gallery Attendants

As a Gallery Attendant, you will help maintain a safe, friendly environment in the museum's galleries.

• Greet visitors in a professional, approachable manner
• Monitor exhibits and encourage respectful visitor behaviour
• Be mindful and respectful of families and children, supporting a welcoming and inclusive environment for all ages
• Provide basic information or direct visitors to appropriate staff
• Report any issues (e.g. spills, disruptions) to staff
• Support visitor flow and capacity management in busier areas
• Assist during events and special exhibitions
• Defer all concerns or incidents to museum staff

Applicants must meet the requirements of a Standard disclosure prior to being offered a volunteer post and are expected to maintain this while they are volunteering.

Further information about the main responsibilities of the role is detailed in the Volunteer Information Pack.

Statement of Expectations

ROLE: Heritage Ambassador (Education) Museum Volunteer

LOCATION: Museum of Scottish Fire Heritage, 1A Dryden Terrace, Edinburgh EH7 4NB

TIME COMMITMENT: 8 hours a month (minimum 1 to 2 days a month) during opening hours Tuesday to Saturday, 10am to 4pm