Summary
***INTERNAL APPLICANTS ONLY ***
We’re looking for someone with a love of history and an eye for detail, who’s friendly and open with people. This role is about looking after a historic house and its collections of precious objects, furniture and works of art. And it’s about presenting all of this to people visiting, and helping to make every person’s day memorable and enjoyable.
Salary: £10,710 pro rata (FTE £24,862.50 per annum)
Hours/ Working pattern: 840 hours, This role is based on annualised hours, where the amount of hours you work each month may vary, however your salary will be paid in 12 equal instalments over the year
Contract: This is a fixed term contract due to end when the postholder returns to the role. At this point we cannot confirm exactly how long this contract will last, but it is unlikely to be more than 01-Nov-2026.
Potential start date: ASAP
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
This beautiful Tudor mansion is situated high above the River Tamar, with Dartmoor National Park and many unspoilt beaches nearby. The property is brimming with character, and is home to many colourful tapestries, armours and artefacts. The team pride themselves on providing superb customer service, and the family atmosphere amongst the 65-member team makes Cotehele a very special place to work. Due to its location, it’s likely you will need your own transport to get here.
For more information about our property please visit
What you'll be doing
As a Collections Assistant, you’ll be working with a supportive housekeeping team in an inspiring historic setting. You’ll be helping with the day-to-day cleaning and care of the precious collections of objects, works of art, textiles and furniture that are part of the house’s history. You’ll be alert to details and changes, and will keep a keen eye on everything from the environmental conditions in a room to any signs of wear and tear. You’ll also be keeping accurate records.
It's a role that’s all about people as well, so you’ll be talking to visitors about the work you’re doing and the collections you help to look after.
You can view the full role profile for this role in the document attached. You don't need to have all the knowledge, skills and experience listed in the role profile; this is just to provide a full picture of what’s possible in this role.
We work across seven days a week. You will be working on a rota basis, with a variety of working patterns starting at 8am. The role includes all day and part day working during the week and at weekends.
Who we're looking for
We’d love to hear from you if you're:
1. nimble-fingered, with good hand-to-eye skills, and happy to work from ladders or scaffold towers
2. comfortable working in a flexible and adaptable way
3. focused on giving great service to everyone you meet
4. a team player, but also happy to work on your own initiative
5. well-organised and versatile
6. willing to learn new skills.
The package
The 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