Community Services Officer (Libraries) X2

About Us

North Somerset Council is committed to providing high-quality services to our community. We are committed to creating a fair, green, and more inclusive environment for all our residents. Join us and contribute to making a positive impact on our community.

The Role

Looking to gain valuable library experience? These fixed-term posts offer a unique opportunity to be part of a passionate team within the Portishead and Pill Library Group.

Whether you're exploring a career in libraries or simply want to make a meaningful contribution, this role could be the perfect stepping stone.

We’re seeking a confident, well-organised and enthusiastic individual to support our staff and volunteers. You’ll bring excellent customer care skills and a calm, proactive approach to unexpected or challenging situations. While library experience is desirable, it’s not essential - We welcome applicants eager to learn and grow in a supportive environment

You will be ready to deal with the physical demands of the job, including stock handling and floor walking. After a period of induction, you will be expected to work regular shifts on your own at Pill Library. Although Portishead will be your base, from time to time you will provide district cover so you must be able to reach other North Somerset libraries.

You’ll Be Involved In A Wide Range Of Tasks, Including:

• Promoting reading, literacy and culture through creative displays and engaging with customers.
• Supporting digital inclusion by helping visitors navigate online services and troubleshoot tech issues.
• Leading activities such as Rhymetime, Storytime, school visits and digital support sessions.

If you’re passionate about libraries and want to make a difference, especially during a time of change we’d love to hear from you.

This position is exempt under the provisions of the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions) Order 1975 and is subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check.

There are 2 fixed term roles available:

Position 1: (CSDB0170)

This is a 21 hour post across the Portishead and Pill Library Group. There is a fixed working pattern as below, with a staff meeting once a month on a Thursday morning, and occasional training sessions on other days by arrangement.

Week 1: Tuesday 9-5; Thursday 10-4; Friday 9-5; Saturday 9-1

Week 2: Tuesday 9-5; Thursday 10-4; Friday 9-5

Position 2: (CSDA0190)

This is a 16 hour post across the Portishead and Pill Library Group. There is a fixed working pattern as below, with a staff meeting once a month on a Thursday morning, and occasional training sessions on other days by arrangement.

Week 1: Tuesday 9-5; Friday 9-5; Saturday 9-1

Week 2: Tuesday 9-5; Friday 9-5

Please clearly state if you are applying for the 21 hour post or the 16 hour post or both posts in your application and which post would be your preference.

About You

We are looking for an individual who is passionate about libraries and delivering excellent customer service. Please review the job family document to understand the required knowledge, skills, and experience. In your supporting statement, clearly demonstrate how you meet these criteria.

What We Offer

At North Somerset Council, we value our employees and provide a supportive and inclusive work environment.

We Offer:

• Competitive salary and benefits.
• Flexible working arrangements.
• Local Government Pension.
• Opportunities for professional development.
• Inclusive Staff groups including Carers, Disabled, LGBTQ+, REACH (Race, Ethnicity, and Cultural Heritage), and Young Staff Forums.
• Opportunity to purchase up to an additional 10 days annual leave each year.
• Dedicated in house Wellbeing Team.
• Salary sacrifice Cycle to Work and Electric Vehicle schemes.

Further details of our excellent rewards package can be found in our Benefits booklet.

How To Apply

If you share our vision and values and are ready to make an impact to North Somerset, please select the apply online button below. If you are interested in this exciting opportunity, please submit your application by 11.59pm on the application closing date. When completing our online application form, please detail how you meet the essential criteria for the role.

Contact Information

For further information about the role, please contact Julia Deacon, Community Services Supervisor, at julia.deacon@n-somerset.gov.uk or 01934 426 803.

Important Information

As a Disability Confident Leader, we guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the job role.

Interview Dates: Thursday 6 November and Friday 7 November

Please note: We are currently only able to accept applications from candidates who have full permission to work in the UK and are unable to provide Sponsorship for this role.

Equal Opportunities

At North Somerset Council we want all our employees to feel valued and appreciated. We aim to ensure equality of opportunity and prevent discrimination irrespective of your sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion or belief, race, age, disability, including neurodiversity, if you are married or in a civil partnership or are pregnant or currently on maternity leave. We strive to create a workplace that reflects the communities we serve and where everyone feels empowered to bring their full, authentic selves to work.

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all our staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

Please note the successful candidate will start at the bottom of the salary range unless transferring from an internal role at a higher scale point.

We reserve the right to close this advertisement early or extend the closing date depending on the number of applications received.