Spotlight Talks Volunteer

Who we are: 

The Science and Industry Museum is devoted to inspiring our visitors through ideas that change the world, from the Industrial Revolution to today and beyond.

It's a story that we're uniquely placed to tell; on the site of the oldest surviving passenger railway station, in the heart of the world's first industrial city, today alive with innovative discoveries in science and technology.

What are we looking for?

We are currently undertaking an ambitious restoration project across the site, with several projects taking place to ensure that the museum is able to reveal wonder for the next generation and beyond.

We are looking for volunteers to join our existing Highlight Team to help visitors understand the history of the site, the changes being made and to navigate their way around our museum.

What would you be doing as a volunteer? 

This role will help to support the Visitor Experience Team with the day-to-day interactions with visitors. It will also deliver a Talk Programme which has been developed by museum volunteers, highlighting the incredible stories hidden within our buildings and collections.

Role and Responsibilities:

• Proactively welcome visitors to our site, helping them to engage with our visitor offer.
• Deliver ten-minute free talks to visitors on gallery throughout the day. This will also involve learning scripts and attending training sessions to enable you to deliver this activity.
• Have a good understanding of what activities are taking place, our facilities and welfare areas, what exhibitions are happening and a general level of knowledge about the museum.
• Assisting visitors with information about directions around the museum, providing information about the improvement works taking place, and helping people to get the most out of their visit.
• Helping to enhance the overall visitor experience by providing excellent customer service, and informing visitors about the history of the site, and the importance of the work that is taking place for the future of the museum.
• Acting as an ambassador for the museum and the Science Museum Group.

You will definitely …

• Be self-assured and able to approach visitors in a confident and friendly manner.
• Have the time to dedicate to learning scripts and attending training required for this role.
• Have excellent verbal communication skills.
• Complete tasks independently, and as part of a team when required.
• Be flexible, and able to adaptable to change.
• Be reliable, and have excellent time keeping.
• Be willing to learn about the museum and its history.

It would be good if you …

• Have experience of public speaking, such as delivering talks, presentations or even tours through your work or studies.

• Have experience in a customer facing role.
• Have knowledge of the museum and the site.
• Have experience of working in a busy customer facing role.

Training Provided:

• General induction (including health and safety and safeguarding)
• Presentation Skills Training
• History of the site Tour- Shadowing existing volunteer team
• Rehearsal Time- To practise the delivery of the scripted talks
• Details of planned work on site

Additional information:

• To volunteer in this role, you must be 18 or over and eligible to volunteer in the UK. Unfortunately, SMG is unable to act as a sponsor organisation if you do not have the appropriate visa.
• This role is subject to a Disclosure Scotland basic criminal record check.
• The role is subject to a museum induction, and relevant training will be provided.