The car park assistant role is one of the most valuable roles here at Polesden Lacey, as the car park is a key aspect of the visitor experience and the first part of a visitor’s day out. Being a car park assistant means you will be one of the first people to make a difference to our visitors by ensuring that they get parked quickly and safely and by giving them a warm welcome.
If you enjoy working outside in all weathers, in a fast‑paced environment both as part of a team and independently, and communicating with others and handling different logistics, then this role may be for you.
The Hours: This is a zero‑hour role meaning there is no set number of guaranteed hours per week or per month. Shifts will vary depending on operational needs. Flexible hours are typically available on weekends, school holidays and bank holidays; to be discussed at interview. Shifts are generally half‑day between 4–6 hours.
Key dates:
* 2026 – May Half Term: 25‑29 May
* Summer Holidays – 22 July – 4 September
* October Half Term – 19 October – 1 November
* Christmas Holidays – 18 December – 3 January
* 2027 – February Half Term – 15 February – 19 February
* As well as weekends and bank holidays
The Salary: £12.75 per hour.
Duration: This is a seasonal fixed‑term role with the contract end date of 28 February 2027.
What it’s like to work here: Polesden Lacey welcomes over 400,000 visitors per year, with busy days ranging from 2,500 to 3,800 visitors. At our busiest times, we have three car parks open that all need to be managed efficiently. This is a public‑facing role working in the car park in all weathers, which can be challenging but rewarding. Training will be provided on car park logistics, policies, and customer expectations.
Large events such as Easter, Summer Theatre, Lazy Jazz Sundays, Heritage Weekend and Christmas bring more visitors – plus regular visitors who enjoy a walk and coffee. A well‑operated car park and a warm welcome from staff keep these events and busy days running smoothly.
The estate is 1,600 acres and lies just four miles outside Dorking; you will need your own transport to get here.
What you’ll be doing
Reporting to the duty officer or car‑park lead, you will work outside with a team or independently. Your duties include greeting and parking visitors, answering questions, assisting with ticket machines, communicating with staff via radio to ensure efficient and safe parking, and maintaining the car‑park and surrounding area by performing regular checks and litter picking. When interacting with visitors, you’ll explain the value of paying or scanning membership cards, promote local projects and the National Trust cause, and provide excellent service.
Comfortable with all weather conditions is essential.
Who we’re looking for
* Focused on giving great service to everyone you meet
* Team player, but also happy to work on your own initiative
* Well‑organised and adaptable
* Willing to learn new skills
The package
* 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 (for roles that meet the salary criteria)
* Perks at work discounts such as gym memberships, shopping discount codes and 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
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