Summary
We’re looking for a Service Assistant to join us at Nymans, Handcross to help busy teams throughout our visitor operations.
Salary: £12.25 an hour
Duration: Fixed Term Contract until 28th February 2026
Hours: This is a zero-hour contract, meaning we can’t guarantee a set number of hours each week. While we aim to provide a consistent work pattern, flexibility is needed as schedules may change based on business needs. We’ll try to give as much notice as possible. The role includes weekends and Bank Holidays but does not require evening or split shifts.
Interview date: TBC
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
One of the National Trust’s most visited places, Nymans was once a creative retreat for the artistic Messel family. The garden holds nationally significant plant collections and at its centre is the Messel family home – a partial ruin. Warm and welcoming, the remaining rooms offer a charming insight to the lives of the people that once lived there. The adjoining woodland, with lake and bird hides, is a place of peace and tranquillity, with plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife and flowers. The small gallery shows changing exhibitions throughout the year and a programme of activities reflects the exhibition themes.
As well as its famous garden and house, Nymans has a successful bookshop, plant centre, cafe and shop. Nyman's garden is a lover's delight, jam-packed with borders offering endless inspiration for your garden at home.
This is a wonderful opportunity to work within an artistic environment where no two days are the same.
What you'll be doing
The core part of your job is to give vital and positive support to your colleagues, wherever you’re needed, with a focus on greeting and helping visitors.
No two days will be the same. You can expect to meet many different people and gain experience in different visitor areas. You’ll get involved in all kinds of tasks, including managing the car park on busy days, greeting visitors on arrival and clearing tables in the café.
Most importantly, you’ll be talking to visitors, answering their questions and making sure they can find everything they need to enjoy their day.
You will be expected to work weekends and bank holidays.
Who we're looking for
We’d love to hear from you if you’re:
1. focused on giving great service to everyone you meet
2. a team player, but also happy to work on your own initiative
3. well-organised and adaptable
4. 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.
5. Substantial pension scheme of up to 10% basic salary
6. Free entry to National Trust places for you, a guest and your children (under 18)
7. Rental deposit loan scheme
8. Season ticket loan
9. EV car lease scheme
10. Perks at work discounts such as gym memberships, shopping discount codes, cinema discounts
11. Holiday allowance up to 32 days relating to length of service, plus holiday purchase scheme, subject to meeting minimum criteria.
12. Flexible working whenever possible
13. Employee assistance programme
14. Free parking at most Trust places