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Jobs directory
CHAPTER 2 | jobs directory
085 Accountancy, banking & finance
154 Law
091 Armed forces & emergency services
160 Marketing, advertising & PR
096 Business, consulting & management
165 Media & publishing
102 Charities & voluntary work
172 Property & construction
108 Creative arts & culture
176 Public sector
114 Energy & utilities
181 Recruitment & HR
120 Engineering & manufacturing
186 Retail & sales
127 Environment & agriculture
191 Science & pharmaceuticals
134 Health & social care
198 Teaching & education
140 Hospitality, tourism & sport
205 Transport & logistics
147 IT & information services
210 Jobs index
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CHAPTER 2 | jobs directory
Accountancy, banking & finance
Overview of the sector in the UK More than two million people are employed in the finance
for graduates, although recruitment, selection and training
sector, which contributes billions of pounds to the economy
arrangements may not be as formal. SMEs in the financial sector
each year. There are about 34,000 businesses providing
provide support for professional training and development and
financial services, such as banking, insurance and financial
are likely to provide a more varied experience of work.
advice, and more than 37,000 businesses registered to provide
Graduate jobs in accountancy exist within charities and
accountancy services, including audit, assurance, tax and
not-for-profit organisations, but the majority of opportunities
advisory services. Employment opportunities are grouped into:
in this sector are in profit-generating businesses.
• Accountancy and finance: more than one million people work in audit, tax and accountancy businesses,
What’s it like working in the sector?
or in financial functions within other organisations;
Graduates entering the accountancy, banking and
• Banking and building societies: enable individuals
finance sector can expect:
and organisations to manage money, access loans
• to work long hours in a fast-paced office environment;
and conduct business in the UK and overseas;
• a starting salary in the region of £23,000 to £24,000
• Financial planning: focuses on the provision of
with salaries increasing rapidly upon professional
advisory services and supporting people and
qualification and with experience. Starting salaries
organisations to plan their financial futures;
for administrative, sales or office management
• Insurance: businesses in the field work closely with other professionals, such as doctors, lawyers and fire officers, to gather evidence to assess risk and resolve claims against insurance policies; • Investments and pensions: businesses research the likely performance of funds and advise asset
jobs within the sector tend to be lower, at around £15,500 to £22,000; • s ubstantial bonuses for some finance professionals. Sales roles can also earn commission or bonuses; •g ood opportunities for progression; • f urther employee benefits, such as joining-up bonuses, private healthcare, pension plans and
companies are trading and stockbroking, alongside
sports club membership.
performance measurement, investment support, valuation, risk assessment and data management.
What are the key issues in the sector? Despite job cuts in the banking sector during the recession, the future looks positive for the professional services, with
so opportunities exist to work overseas, although this
finance and accountancy leading the recovery. Around four
may depend upon having additional skills or competences,
in ten financial services jobs are in London and the South East.
such as languages. In the UK, there are far more small to
Although London as a global finance centre dominates, other
medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) than large companies,
cities such as Edinburgh, Glasgow, Leeds and Manchester
and this type of employer provides good prospects
have flourishing financial centres, too.
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Many of the bigger financial companies are multinational,
Accountancy, banking & finance
managers. Key functions carried out by investment
Graduate jobs
and insurance, where professionals are most
stakeholders and working with mergers
likely to start off. Some actuaries may move
and acquisitions.
on to investment banks at a later stage.
Specifically, actuaries may be responsible
Accounting technician
Actuarial work can be diverse and
for developing new financial products,
Accounting technicians work in all areas
ranges from highly technical roles developing
conducting valuations of assets and liabilities
of finance and business. They usually start
complex financial products in investment
and advising on investment strategies.
working in a support role within a firm of
banks or pensions and insurance companies
Their areas of assessment include portfolio
accountants or in the accounts or finance
to consultancy roles for those seeking a
profitability and calculating funding rates
departments of organisations. They may
client-facing career. Actuaries need to apply
and considering assumptions for pension
be employed in industry, commerce or the
their mathematical, economic and statistical
scheme liabilities. Risk analysis is another
public sector. Those with more experience
awareness to real situations in the financial
aspect of the role, particularly location-
may become self-employed, providing a
world and be able to communicate the
related risks for catastrophe claims, along
variety of accountancy and taxation services
difficult topics to non-specialists. Strong
with measuring, monitoring and mitigating
to a range of SMEs.
communication skills are becoming an
portfolio and enterprise risks. Other tasks
In many larger organisations, accounting
increasingly important part of the actuarial
include overseeing asset and liability
technicians work alongside members of
profession, and it is essential that actuaries
modelling, product development and profit
chartered accountancy bodies. In smaller
are able to discuss complex topics in a
testing and preparing reports and updates.
organisations, they may be the only financially
simple way to assist their clients effectively.
Actuaries may also be involved with the
trained members of staff.
Actuarial trainees may begin work
acceptance of proposals for new policies,
as trainee pensions consultants or risk
with legal and taxation matters affecting
Typical work activities
analysts while at the same time studying
life assurance, or with fund investment.
Depending on the route taken, qualification
for professional exams. Senior actuaries can
and subsequent work experience, an
be found in consulting firms as partners, in
accounting technician may undertake
large banks as chief risk officers or in board-
Chartered accountant
a range of roles. Specific activities vary
level positions in insurance companies and
Chartered accountants provide trustworthy
according to the role, but common tasks
other financial services organisations.
information about financial records. This might involve financial reporting,
include helping with the preparation of accounts, looking after all financial
Typical work activities
taxation, auditing, forensic accounting,
transactions, budgets and staff payroll and
Actuaries apply financial and statistical
corporate finance, business recovery and
receiving and settling invoices. Other duties
theories to assess the likelihood of a particular
insolvency, or accounting systems and
include basic bookkeeping, auditing external
event occurring and the possible financial
processes. Generally, they play a strategic
and internal work and monitoring expenses.
costs. Specific tasks vary but may include:
role by providing professional advice
Budget control and report writing are also
analysing statistical data in order to calculate,
to maximise their clients’ or employer’s
commonly performed.
for example, accident rates for particular
profitability. They work in public practice
Different financial sectors require
groups of people and using mathematical
firms, industry and commerce, and in
specialist knowledge. More senior positions
modelling and statistical concepts to
the not-for-profit and public sectors.
include finance manager, budget controller
determine probability and assess risks,
In public practice firms, chartered
and internal auditor.
such as analysing pension scheme liabilities,
accountants provide professional services
Self-employed accounting technicians
to price commercial insurance.
to fee-paying clients. In commerce, industry
provide a range of services to businesses.
Additionally, typical activities may
and the not-for-profit and public sectors,
These may include advising on budgets and
include monitoring risk within trading
they may work in treasury management,
taxation, calculating end-of-year accounts
positions in investment banking to ensure
procurement, financial management or
and consultancy.
excessive risks are not taken during the fast
in reporting roles.
pace of trading, and presenting reports and advising on risk limitation. Other areas of
Typical work activities
Actuary
advice given may include the selection of
The role of a chartered accountant can cover
Actuaries evaluate, manage and advise on
investment managers or the administration
many aspects of finance work, including:
financial risks. They apply their knowledge
of pensions and benefits. The role is also
management of financial systems and
of business and economics, together with
likely to involve working with IT professionals
budgets, undertaking financial audits
their understanding of probability theory,
to develop regulatory-compliant systems,
and providing financial advice.
statistics and investment theory, to provide
communicating with clients and relationship
In public practice, typical work activities
strategic, commercial and financial advice.
management, including with investment
include liaising with clients and providing
The core of actuarial work lies within pensions
managers, financial directors and external
financial information and advice,
and governments on how to achieve their
finance officers of large organisations and
analysing risk and performing tests to
financial goals and implement long- and
coordinating teams of professionals, such
check financial information and systems.
short-term financial plans. Corporate
as accountants, lawyers and PR consultants
Additionally, the role typically involves
investment bankers work in dedicated teams,
and working closely with them.
advising clients on tax planning (within
focusing on specific transactions or market
current legislation to enable them to
sectors. They also work alongside other
minimise their tax liability) and tax issues
related professionals such as lawyers and
Financial adviser
associated with activities such as business
accountants. A typical corporate finance
Financial advisers provide clients with
acquisitions and mergers, on areas of
deal involves two stages:
advice on financial matters, making
business improvement, or dealing with
• Origination: Assessing a deal’s desirability,
recommendations on ways to best utilise
insolvency. Accountants with clients in small
which is sometimes an innovative idea
their money. The role involves researching the
businesses maintain accounting records
from the bank rather than the client.
marketplace and advising clients on products
and prepare accounts and management
Financial models are used to simulate
and services available, ensuring they are aware
information. Other duties could include
possible outcomes. This requires a deep
of and understand those that best meet their
managing junior colleagues and detecting
understanding of a sector.
needs, and then securing a sale. Advisers may specialise in particular
and preventing fraud (forensic accounting).
• Execution: Structuring and negotiating
In commerce, industry and the public
the detailed terms of a deal, often in
products, depending on their clients’
and not-for-profit sectors, typical work
liaison with other professionals.
circumstances, e.g. selling employee pension schemes to companies or offering mortgage,
activities involve liaising with internal and external auditors, dealing with any
Many investment banks deal in three areas:
pension or investment advice to private
financial irregularities as they arise and
• Mergers and acquisitions: assisting clients
clients. Others are generalists, offering
producing recommendations and reports
with expansion to increase profitability,
advice to clients in all of these areas, plus
following audits. The role also typically
safeguard market position, diversify, and
savings plans and insurance. In order to
includes preparing financial statements
so on. Corporate investment bankers
give financial advice, advisers must have
and management reports. Other likely
manage the transaction process, assessing
professional qualifications and follow
tasks may be advising on tax and treasury
the target organisation and the impact of
strict financial industry rules.
issues and negotiating terms with suppliers.
the deal. This involves knowledge of legal
Corporate investment banker
and regulatory issues, in addition to sound
Typical work activities
financial knowledge and an in-depth
Financial advisers can work as:
understanding of the client’s industry;
• Tied advisers: working for one organisation,
Corporate investment bankers provide a range
• Debt capital markets: working with
of financial services to companies, institutions
lenders such as financial institutions,
and governments. They manage corporate,
agencies and public and private companies
strategic and financial opportunities,
to support client debt. This includes
including mergers, acquisitions, bonds and
restructuring debt, refinancing debt
shares, lending, privatisations and initial public offerings (IPOs). Corporate investment
CHAPTER 2 | jobs directory
reviewing the company’s systems and
and raising new debt; • Equity capital markets: Advising clients
bankers also advise and lead management
on how much capital to raise, from where
buyouts, raise capital, provide strategic advice
and when.
to clients and identify and secure new deals.
such as a bank, building society or insurance company, and selling only their products; • Multi-tied advisers: selling several companies’ products; • Independent financial advisers (IFAs): advising on any company’s products and, by law, providing clients with the most suitable advice. Tasks vary but typically involve conducting in-depth reviews of clients’ financial
used as a catch-all term. In reality, banks
business areas, project teams liaise with one
circumstances, analysing information and
are made up of many divisions in which
another during the two phases of a deal in
preparing appropriate plans for clients,
investment bankers perform a range of
order to obtain relevant specialist information
researching the marketplace and providing
different functions. Traditionally, investment
and market intelligence. Typical day-to-day
clients with product and service information.
banking encompasses corporate finance,
activities include thoroughly researching
Additionally, the role may involve
as well as mergers and acquisitions (M&A).
market conditions and developments,
designing financial strategies, helping clients
The definition has blurred in recent years and
identifying new business opportunities,
make informed decisions and promoting and
may also include trading bonds and shares.
carrying out financial modelling, then
selling financial products to meet given or
developing and presenting appropriate
negotiated sales targets. Other duties include
Typical work activities
financial solutions to clients.
producing financial reports, keeping up to
The main role of a corporate investment
Other typical activities include
date with financial products and legislation
banker is to advise companies, institutions
liaising with the chief executive and chief
and meeting the regulatory aspects of the
086 / 087
Although dealing with different, specific
Accountancy, banking & finance
Investment banking is frequently
role, e.g. disclosure requirements, costs of
– sales traders don’t take risks while flow/
identifying issues affecting clients, developing
services provided and products advised.
proprietary traders take risks seeking reward.
client relationships and executing trades and
Flow and proprietary traders focus on
securing deals with new clients. Additionally,
executing trades at the right price. Traders sit
sales traders keep market-making traders
Financial trader
at workstations in a dealing room, tracking
abreast of the relevant issues with their
Financial traders buy and sell shares, bonds
market movements.
customers, obtain market prices from market-
and assets for investors, including individuals
Markets can move rapidly and trading
making traders and execute trades.
and banks. They make prices and execute
can be hectic. The role combines speaking
trades, seeking to maximise assets or
with colleagues, making phone calls and
minimise financial risk.
making instant decisions. Traders in this
Insurance broker
There are three types of trader:
area must be alert and ready to make
Insurance brokers act as intermediaries
proprietary, flow (market) and sales.
decisions based on the smallest movements
between clients and insurance companies.
Flow traders buy and sell products on the
in the market. They react to a change in
Clients may be either individuals or
financial markets for the bank’s clients.
parameters and constituents that is not
commercial businesses and organisations.
Products include securities and other assets
already implied by the current market price.
They use their in-depth knowledge of
such as futures, options and commodities.
The price should reflect the intrinsic value
risks and the insurance market to find
Proprietary traders trade on behalf of the
of the asset, which can change at any second
and arrange suitable insurance policies
bank itself. Sales traders take instructions
for multiple reasons. Their decisions are
and arrange cover. They act in the interest
directly from clients, placing orders and
informed by in-depth market reports provided
of their clients and offer products from
advising them on market developments
by their firm’s investment analysts and by
more than one insurer to ensure that
and new financial ventures. They are
sales traders, as well as streamed market
their clients get the best deal.
intermediaries between the client and the
news from agencies such as Bloomberg
Retail insurance brokers usually
market maker. Their aim is to buy low and
and Reuters. Traders also use their own
arrange insurance policies for individuals
sell high. They do this by analysing economic
technical analysis. Much of the job is based
or companies and deal directly with them.
data, cross-asset correlations and identifying
on independent thinking. During the first year,
Policies range from motor, house, travel
undervalued and overvalued prices.
the trainee performs relatively menial tasks
or pet cover for individuals or property
such as data analysis and administrative duties
to employer’s liability and public and
Traders may specialise in one of the
before being trusted to be responsible for
product liability insurance.
following areas:
the firm’s money.
Commercial insurance brokers deal
• F ixed-interest bonds: interest-paying loans
The typical work activities of a flow or
with high value and more complex insurance
proprietary trader include making prices in
cover in areas such as marine, aviation, oil
their relevant products, executing trades
and gas and financial risks.
issued by a government or company; •G ilts: government bonds issued to raise public funds;
electronically or by phone and liaising with sales traders/clients on market movements.
Typical work activities
securities): from companies listed on the
Other tasks involve predicting how markets
Activities depend largely on the size and
stock exchange or fund units;
will move and buying and selling accordingly
nature of the employer and the scale of the
(especially derivatives traders who try to
business. In a large company, a broker may
derivatives): involves buying and selling
predict the state of a market at a future date),
specialise in a core area; in a small firm, a
commodities, securities and derivatives
informing all relevant parties of the most
broker could be involved in most functions,
in secondary markets in order to make a
relevant trades for the day and gathering
including new business development and
profit through pricing differences;
information – critically about mispriced assets,
acting as placing broker and claims broker.
data analysis and valuation.
Tasks often involve assessing clients’
speculating on whether the price of a
Traders in sales are more focused on
insurance needs and risk profile plus
currency will rise or fall in order to make
the relationships with clients – analysing,
forming an understanding of the client’s
a profit through pricing differences.
exploring and marketing new financial offers
business, building and maintaining ongoing
Many trades on the FX market are not in the
that they believe will be attractive to their
relationships with clients, advising them
actual currencies but traded as derivatives.
clients. They work closely with the other
on risk management and foreseeing their
traders, informing them on their products.
insurance needs, such as policy renewals.
Typical work activities
For a sales trader, the typical work
Additionally, the role typically includes
While there are many similarities in the
activities include gathering information
researching insurance companies’ policies
work of flow and proprietary traders and
and analysing the market and carrying
and negotiating with underwriters to find the
those working in sales, their roles differ
out detailed data analysis and valuation.
most suitable insurance for clients at the best
substantially. The main difference is risk
Their customer focus involves them
price, arranging specialised types of insurance
•S hares (also known as stocks or
• F utures and options (also known as
• F oreign exchange (FX) markets: involves
to fund managers. The information that
Pensions consultant
preparing reports for insurance underwriters
analysts provide enables fund managers to
Pensions consultants provide advice and
and surveyors and negotiating with insurers
make decisions relating to the investment
information on retirement provision to
and advising clients on risk management.
portfolios they manage.
organisations. They are involved in reviewing
Other likely duties include keeping up with
Some analysts work for investment
an organisation’s current pension provision
changes in the insurance market and in the
management companies, providing
for staff members and recommending a
clients’ industries, marketing and acquiring
information to in-house fund managers;
range of options for consideration. They may
new clients.
others work for stockbrokers and investment
then be involved in setting up and running
banks, where their research assists their
schemes on behalf of companies. This requires
employer’s clients, usually fund managers/
up-to-date knowledge of the financial
Insurance claims inspector
hedge funds. Analysts and fund managers
services sector and an understanding of
Insurance claims inspectors are employed
working in the UK may research investments
pensions legislation.
directly by insurance companies to investigate
globally. The principal UK investors (apart
Pensions consultants may work for large
claims made by policyholders. Their role
from individuals) are pension funds, life
financial services companies, organisations
includes dealing with a claim, accessing
assurance companies, unit trusts and
with their own pensions provision, pensions
liability and following it through to completion
investment trusts, as well as banks, major
providers within the public sector or specialist
and settlement. They coordinate the services
companies and hedge funds.
pensions consultancy firms. Alternatively, it
that may be required by policyholders
CHAPTER 2 | jobs directory
cover in complex cases; this may involve
is possible to work as a personal pensions adviser or independent financial adviser, selling
as contacting an approved tradesperson
Investment analysts may be involved in a
pensions and saving plans to individual clients.
and organising a visit from them to make
broad range of activities and disciplines,
repairs on a policyholder’s home. They also
depending on the nature of the employer.
Typical work activities
try to prevent fraudulent claims.
Essentially, they need to understand financial
Pensions consultants offer pensions
Claims inspectors differ from loss
information, such as company accounts,
provision to other organisations, advising on
adjusters in that they usually work for a
sector data and statistics, plus economic
the best form of pensions provision for the
single insurance company, whereas loss
issues and relevant political events. They must
organisation as a whole to provide to their
adjusters work for a range of companies
also develop expertise in interpreting such
employees. Personal pensions advisers advise
and generally deal with larger and more
information and the implications it has for
on a range of products suitable to the needs
complex cases.
investment decisions.
of their individual clients and ensure that
An analyst may have a set of companies
they receive regular updates on their pension
Typical work activities
to research and get to know in depth in
and investments. Specific activities will vary
These can include visiting scenes of accidents,
order to make informed recommendations
according to the role but typically involve
such as workplaces, or loss (fire or theft),
to fund managers. These are usually
researching the financial market for suitable
investigating the circumstances of an accident
companies in a specific industrial sector,
products and investment funds, sourcing
or loss and undertaking background research
such as retail, pharmaceuticals or utilities,
appropriate investment funds and designing
and checking details with policyholders and
or in a specific geographical area, such as
pension and benefits packages to meet the
witnesses. Additionally, the role typically
Europe or East Asia. Work activities usually
needs of client companies.
involves acquiring information from other
include monitoring the financial news using
Additionally, tasks can include advising
professionals, such as the police and medical
specialist media sources, analysing financial
clients on a suitable range of pensions
and technical staff, liaising externally with
information relating to specific companies,
and investments and explaining complex
loss adjusters, solicitors and other legal/
e.g. company results, profit-and-loss and
information to clients to make them aware
claims professionals and liaising in-house with
cash-flow statements and keeping up to date
of their options and to help them assess
senior claims inspectors, staff in the claims
with market developments, new investment
the relative merits of different schemes.
department and underwriters. Further tasks
products and all other areas that can affect
Pensions advisers also calculate the value
include collating information and deciding
the markets, such as movements in the
and performance of funds, reviewing the
on liability and negotiating a settlement
economies of relevant countries and events
structure, value and performance of funds,
with claimants or legal representatives and
such as natural disasters, wars and weather.
as well as overseeing the administration
arranging payment.
Other tasks include writing research reports
of pension schemes and keeping up to
and investment ideas for clients, ensuring
date with developments in and changes to
that they meet the numerous compliance
pensions legislation. Other likely activities
Investment analyst
regulations and making presentations and
include providing regular reports to pension
An investment analyst undertakes research
recommending funds to be included in
managers and trustees, issuing regular
to provide information and investment ideas
fund managers’ portfolios.
statements to scheme members, keeping
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Typical work activities
Accountancy, banking & finance
following an accident or incident, such
clients regularly updated about their
for business and implementing the new
pensions and investment products and
products, services and processes devised by
all tax obligations by preparing and
managing the relationship with clients to
head office. Additionally, retail bank managers
submitting tax returns, tax computations
ensure they are happy with the scheme
often undertake to represent the bank within
and any other necessary forms; dealing
and investments. Additionally, pensions
the wider community and involve themselves
with tax authorities. This work is usually
consultants often help clients to develop
in building relevant contacts.
undertaken by accountancy practices.
strategies to promote the benefits of their
Responsibilities for more junior bankers
schemes to members. Pensions consultants
may include dealing with customers’ queries
Initially, graduates within tax advisory
also attend meetings with fund managers,
face to face, over the telephone or in writing
roles might focus on compliance activities,
trustees and employee representatives, as
and serving customers at the counter.
for example, completing tax returns and
well as with other professionals, such as
Other duties may include understanding
calculating amount payable, with movement
accountants, the solicitors of pensions funds
customer needs, recommending suitable
towards consultancy and specialisation as
and actuaries. Another element of the role
products and making sales along with
their careers develop. The work of a tax
can be seeking and attracting new business.
processing paperwork from sales, change
adviser will depend on the nature and size
Those working as independent
of customer details, closure of accounts and
of the employer. Larger accountancy firms
financial advisers may also be involved in
similar administrative activities. Additionally,
tend to adopt a structure that permits
advising on other areas such as mortgages,
more junior bankers are likely to be tasked
greater specialisation. For example, new
life insurance and employee benefits.
with learning about new products, services
graduates in large organisations may be
and processes.
employed to undertake research about
• Tax compliance: ensuring a client meets
a particular specialist area on behalf of
Retail banker
more experienced colleagues.
A retail banker works in banks and building
Tax adviser
Typical work activities include meeting
societies that can be found on the high
Tax advisers use their knowledge of tax
with clients and collating information,
street, although there are now increasing
legislation to provide advisory and consultancy
advising on tax liabilities and providing
opportunities to work for online banks and
services to clients, ensuring that they pay their
consultancy services to high-value private
supermarkets that offer a banking service.
taxes in the most efficient way and benefit
clients. Additional duties are likely to include
A retail banker helps with the financial
from any tax advantages and exemptions.
researching, analysing and interpreting
requirements of individuals and businesses
They keep up to date with changing tax laws
changing tax legislation and working with
and provides advice and financial services.
and explain complicated legislation and its
tax law and revenue provisions. Tax advisers
This can include authorising loans and
implications to their clients in simple terms.
typically prepare and submit compliance
overdraft facilities, setting up saving accounts
Additionally, they create tax strategies for
(tax) returns and liaise and negotiate
and bonds, and assisting in the movement
their clients and plan their financial futures.
with HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC).
of money via payment mechanisms.
They carry out detailed computations to
Further areas of activity could encompass
Private banking is a subsection of retail
calculate tax liability, submit tax returns by the
establishing and structuring family trusts,
banking that typically deals with high-net-
relevant deadline and deal with HM Revenue
estate planning and advising on tax
worth individuals, often defined as those
& Customs (HMRC) on behalf of their clients.
residence and domicile matters.
with more than £1 million to invest.
Some advisers also offer their clients other
Some self-employed tax advisers also
A manager of a retail bank will need
accountancy services.
offer their clients a range of accountancy
to increase sales of financial products and
The work is highly detailed and complex
services, such as bookkeeping, payroll
services, attract new customers and manage
and can be both challenging and rewarding.
and VAT.
a team of staff.
Clients can include large, medium and small companies, partnerships, trusts
Typical work activities
and individuals.
Retail bank branch management is similar to other management opportunities, in
Typical work activities
that the managers are responsible for
There are two main areas of work:
managing, recruiting and coaching
• Tax planning: staying abreast of changes
teams of people, dealing with customer
in tax law and structuring clients’ affairs
complaints that can’t be solved by the
lawfully to minimise future tax liabilities.
front-line staff and meeting sales targets
Tax planning is normally carried out by
and managing budgets. Other responsibilities
tax professionals operating within an
include opening and closing the branch
accountancy practice or lawyers working
daily and ensuring that the premises are fit
within law firms;
CHAPTER 2 | jobs directory
Armed forces & emergency services
Overview of the sector in the UK When you think of the armed forces or the emergency
• a typical starting salary for the protective services in
services, certain jobs will spring to mind. But there is a
the region of £22,000 to £26,000. A graduate officer
lot more to this sector than meets the eye. Opportunities for
(second lieutenant) in the Army will start on £24,000,
work in the armed forces and emergency services filter down
rising to nearly £38,000 after five years. Graduate trainee
into three key spheres:
roles in the Civil Service will pay £25,000 to £27,000,
• Local public sector: the police force, the fire service and
with potential to rise to around the £45,000 mark after
the ambulance service. These services operate locally but
five years.
comply with central government guidelines; What are the key issues in the sector?
the Royal Navy and the intelligence services. The UK armed
Although recruitment to the armed forces increased between
forces employ more than 165,000 trained personnel;
2007 and 2010, it is likely that this trend will be reversed
•P rivate sector: companies support the forces and
between now and 2020. By 2015, the Army is expected to
emergency services with catering, medical equipment and
cut personnel levels by around 7,000 to a total of 95,000.
the production of vehicles and weaponry. This industry
Among civilian roles, it is anticipated that the Ministry of
employs more than 300,000 people and generates more
Defence will make 25,000 cuts to leave around 60,000 staff.
than £35 billion per year for the UK economy. The Government’s Future Force 2020 plans comprise three What’s it like working in the sector?
main elements:
Graduates entering the armed forces or emergency services
• t he deployed force, which will engage in military operations;
should prepare for:
• t he high-readiness force, which could respond quickly in the
• varied working conditions – either fast-paced office work, working overseas in arduous physical conditions with the armed forces, or in a stressful/dangerous environment with
event of a threat to security; • t he lower-readiness force, whose members have returned from combat or are in training to support the deployed forces.
the emergency services; • d iffering hours of work – those working in intelligence
It is also worth noting that in this sector there are strict entry
may have regular 9 to 5 office hours; those in active
regulations regarding UK residence. Entrance to the Army typically requires UK residence of a minimum of five years,
participating in 24-hour shift work; and emergency services
the police force requires around three years and applicants
can be on-call 24 hours a day, also working public holidays;
to the Civil Service Fast Stream must usually be UK citizens.
090 / 091
military service are likely to be abroad for several months
Accountancy, banking & finance / Armed forces & emergency services
• National public sector: the Army, the Royal Air Force (RAF),
Graduate jobs
might include modifying designs to improve
high standards. Additional duties include
safety features or minimise fuel consumption
assessing priorities, plans and maintenance
and pollution, developing repair procedures,
routines, as well as liaising with external
Aeronautical engineer
as well as working out and managing
agencies and taking responsibility for the
Aeronautical – or aerospace – engineers
schedules for repair and maintenance and
morale, welfare and training of subordinates.
apply scientific and technological principles
investigating aircraft accidents. There is also a
Other activities are likely to encompass
to research, design, develop, maintain and
collaborative aspect to the role that is likely to
investigating the causes of administrative
test the performance of civil and military
involve working with teams, suppliers, clients
problems, supervising administrative routines
aircraft, missiles, weapons systems, satellites
and managers to agree budgets, timescales
including records, budgets and accounts
and space vehicles. They also work on the
and specifications. Project management,
and managing resources to achieve complex
different components that make up these
including scheduling resources and managing
tasks within budget.
aircraft and systems. The role is focused on
budgets, is also a possible part of the role, as
Additionally, in field operations, activities
improving flight safety, fuel efficiency, speed
are collating information, interpreting data
include registering prisoners and/or refugees,
and weight, as well as reducing system costs
and publishing the results of specific projects
registering and notifying of death and injury
and using technologies to meet customer
in technical report form.
and undertaking security and patrol duties.
wide range of roles in research, design,
Armed forces logistics/support/ administrative officer
Armed forces operational officer
development, testing, manufacture and
A logistics/support/administrative officer
Operational officers in the armed forces
maintenance. Many engineers specialise
in the armed forces is responsible for the
lead the fighting arms. They direct and
in a particular area such as propulsion,
management and efficiency of the logistics,
operate technically advanced fighting
avionics, systems integration, aerodynamics
support and administrative functions. In the
systems on land, at sea and in the air and
or materials and structures. The aerospace
Army, they are known as staff and personnel
command people in the front line of battle.
industry is well established in the UK, with
support (SPS) officers, part of the Adjutant
The Army calls them combat officers, the
jobs available in UK-owned and international
General’s Corps (AGC), or specialist officers
Royal Navy uses the term warfare officers
aerospace companies.
in the Royal Logistics Corps (RLC), trained
and the Royal Air Force (RAF) refers to flight
in supply, distribution or commodities (e.g.
operations officers.
Typical work activities
ammunition or petroleum). In the Royal
Responsibilities cover the training,
Specific tasks vary according to the role,
Navy, they are called logistics or supply
fitness, operational effectiveness and welfare
specialism and employer but typically they
officers. In the Royal Air Force (RAF), they
of everyone in the unit, so they reach
could include applying the principles of
are administrative officers. In each setting,
and maintain a high level of competence
science and technology to create aircraft,
their purpose is the same: to enable each
and readiness to fulfil their defence and
components and support equipment,
service to carry out their allotted role in
peacekeeping purposes. The officer’s primary
researching and developing design
peace and war.
responsibility in operations – which are often
needs. Increasingly, the role also addresses the environmental impact of air travel. Aeronautical engineering offers a
dangerous, fast-moving and confused – is to
specifications and undertaking systematic manufacturing, involving the assembly
Typical work activities
and modification of components.
Tasks often include supervising and planning
Additionally, typical duties might involve
the work of individuals and teams whose
Typical work activities
supervising the assembly of airframes and
role is the delivery of a wide range of
An operational or combat officer in the
the installation of engines, instruments and
specific services and functions including
armed forces is first and foremost a leader
other equipment, participating in flight test
human resources (HR)/personnel, training
who must lead and manage a team of
programmes to measure take-off distances,
and development, pay and benefits and
fighting specialists, developing their skills
rate of climb, stall speeds, manoeuvrability
accountancy. Other functions could include IT
to a very high level of competence and
and landing capacities, and resolving issues
and information management, infrastructure
readiness. In general tasks often include
that arise during the design, development
and project management and administration
taking responsibility for the welfare, morale
and testing processes.
and secretarial, along with security and stores
and motivation of subordinates. Additional
Further activities could encompass
and supplies.
likely requirements are communicating
maintaining aircraft for full operation,
In the context of the infrastructure and
effectively with your unit, colleagues
including making regular inspections,
services of a base, typical activities include
with other roles and responsibilities, and
maintenance and servicing, and measuring
commanding a platoon of highly trained
professional and community groups, both
and improving the performance of aircraft,
specialist service personnel and ensuring that
orally and in writing, through briefings,
components and systems. Other typical tasks
Army personnel is motivated and trained to
operational reports and presentations and
command, lead and inspire service personnel.
The range of tasks undertaken varies
The role can also be known as civil
and professional development.
according to the department. For example,
resilience or civil contingencies officers.
At base or on exercise, they can include:
in a geographical section, you will be collating
A related but distinct area is international
training and developing subordinates of
country profiles and disseminating this
relief development. See international aid/
all ranks and bringing them to a high state
information, while in the HR department,
development worker for more information.
of operational readiness and training new
you will deal with recruitment, training and
recruits in basic skills. They can also involve
a broad range of HR work. Typical work
Typical work activities
instructing personnel of other ranks and
activities may include dealing with queries by
There are distinct career routes within
preparing them for promotion and assessing
telephone from other departments, members
emergency planning and management
the effectiveness of training.
of the public and overseas contacts, updating
and business continuity management.
In battle and other operations,
travel advice and information and answering
Most people choose one of these as a
typical activities are likely to encompass
general written correspondence.
specialist area in which to develop a career,
identifying objectives and assessing ways
Other likely tasks could involve
with scope for a possible move into another
of achieving them and motivating and
drafting and proofreading written reports,
area after gaining experience.
leading subordinates to achieve objectives,
analysing and interpreting written material
Typical work activities vary according to
often in difficult and dangerous conditions.
and managing departmental or project
the specific post and the level of responsibility,
Other tasks can include preparing or
budgets as well as supporting colleagues’
but may include completing risk assessments
modifying operational strategies and
policy work. Further possible elements
for a diverse range of sites, such as chemical
plans, allocating equipment, manpower
of the role include liaising with high
factories, nuclear factories, city centres and
and resources effectively to achieve
commissions and embassies and organising
major sporting venues, and writing and
objectives and keeping equipment and
and ensuring the smooth running of
implementing safety development plans
weapons operational.
ministerial and diplomatic visits, from
and reports.
transport arrangements to entertainment.
Other responsibilities could encompass
Overseas, the role may involve similar
analysing and planning for potential risks,
Diplomatic Services operational officer
activities to those listed above, in addition
such as outbreaks of infections or disease,
to assisting British exporters and individuals,
technical failure of electricity networks,
The role of the Diplomatic Service is to protect
working as an entry clearance officer,
major gas leaks and severe weather
and work for UK interests throughout the
assessing visa applications and conducting
conditions and providing advice and
world in a variety of ways. It specialises in
interviews and undertaking specialist project
consultancy to businesses to ensure that
the practical side of diplomatic work, and
work, depending on where you are posted.
they can carry on functioning in the event
operational entrants (grade B3) play an
These initial postings are decided on the
of an emergency. Further duties might
active, varied and high-profile role within
basis of candidates’ experience and skills at
involve acting as duty officer as part of
many areas of the service and have the
entry. For later postings, post holders apply
a 24-hour duty system, responding to
opportunity to influence international
internally and go through a selection process.
emergency situations as they arise, liaising
and diplomatic development.
with the police, fire services and the Army
Following an initial period of at least
and helping to coordinate the response of all non-emergency service organisations.
Commonwealth Office (FCO), usually at
Emergency planning/ management officer
two separate postings, entrants take an
Emergency planning/management officers
preparing and conducting safety exercises,
overseas posting in a British embassy,
play a key role in planning for, protecting
delivering safety training to staff in local
high commission, mission or consulate.
and maintaining public safety. Emergency
authorities, businesses, voluntary agencies
Individual roles vary and may include
planning professionals work as part of a
and other organisations and raising
consular work, immigration work and
team to anticipate and respond to threats
awareness of public safety issues through
political and commercial projects.
to public safety, such as acts of terrorism,
attending events. Further tasks are likely
natural disasters, epidemics and major
to involve developing information and
Typical work activities
industrial accidents.
delivering special projects and creating
At operational entry level, new employees
The profession is experiencing a period
new policies and procedures in response
may work in managerial roles as geographic
of considerable growth in scope across the
to government legislation.
desk officers, in human resources (HR) or
United Kingdom as a result of the increased
Senior officers in local authorities
in the consular service within the Foreign
public recognition of the need to prepare for
tend to take on more staff management
and Commonwealth Office (FCO). Most new
major incidents. The key areas of work are
and development responsibilities, moving
entrants are placed in one of the FCO’s main
emergency planning and management and
away from the direct planning and response
departments in London.
business continuity management.
aspects of the job.
three years in London at the Foreign and
CHAPTER 2 | jobs directory
taking responsibility for your own personal
Additionally, the role could include
Armed forces & emergency services 092 / 093
Firefighter
include assessing situations quickly and
help, assessing the condition of patients who
Firefighters respond to emergency situations
deciding on the best course of action,
are injured or taken ill suddenly and providing
and primarily protect people, the environment
directing the crew, fire investigation and
an immediate course of treatment en route
and property from all types of accident and
writing full incident reports. Additional typical
to hospital or on scene.
emergencies. They work closely with the local
duties are budget administration and control,
Additional regular tasks include
community to increase their level of fire safety
allocation of personnel and resources to
monitoring the patient’s condition,
awareness in order to help prevent fires and
achieve performance targets and planning
assessing whether and how to move
accidents occurring in the first place.
and resource management. Other functions
patients and, where appropriate, the best
Firefighters promote fire safety and
include negotiating with representative
location to transport them to and driving
enforce fire safety standards in public and
bodies and dealing with external agencies.
and crewing an ambulance or other rapid
commercial premises by acting and advising
The operational aspects of firefighting,
response vehicle. Other likely duties are
on all matters relating to the protection of
albeit important, are a minor part of the
liaising with members of other emergency
life and property from fire and other risks.
job of a senior manager in a large service.
services, such as the police, fire brigade or
Lectures, exercises, practice drills and other
coastguard and other ambulance services
forms of training are an integral and ongoing
to ensure the appropriate level of response
Paramedic
is provided, dealing with members of
Paramedics provide an immediate response
the public and family members present
Typical work activities
to emergency medical 999 calls. They are
at the scene and assisting with patient
Tasks include responding immediately and
usually the first senior healthcare professionals
care in hospitals or health care centres.
safely to emergency calls and requests for
on the scene and responsible for assessing a
Another aspect of the role is cleaning,
assistance, attending emergency incidents
patient’s condition and providing treatment
decontaminating and checking vehicles
including fires, road accidents, floods, bomb
and care prior to hospital admission.
and equipment to maintain a state of
incidents, spillages of dangerous substances,
Treatment may include resuscitating and
operational readiness.
and rail and air crashes and rescuing
stabilising a patient, using high-tech
trapped people and animals. Other typical
equipment such as a defibrillator, applying
tasks are minimising distress and suffering,
spinal and traction splints and administering
Police officer
including giving first aid before ambulance
intravenous drips, drugs and oxygen.
Police officers work in partnership with
crews arrive and safeguarding their own
A paramedic will attend emergencies
the communities they serve to maintain law
and other people’s personal safety at all
including minor injuries, sudden illness
and order, protect members of the public
times, responding quickly to unforeseen
and casualties arising from road and rail
and their property, prevent crime, reduce
circumstances as they arise and cleaning
accidents, criminal violence, fires and other
the fear of crime and improve the quality
up and checking the site after dealing with
incidents. They are usually in a two-person
of life for all citizens. They use a wide
an incident. Further responsibilities include
ambulance crew, with the other crew
range of technology to protect individuals,
inspecting and maintaining the appliance
member being an ambulance technician or
identify the perpetrators of crime and ensure
(fire engine) and its equipment, assisting
emergency care assistant who helps them.
successful prosecutions against those who
in the testing of fire hydrants and checking
However, some will work alone, using an
break the law.
emergency water supplies, as well as
emergency response car, motorbike or
Key priorities for the 52 police forces
undertaking drills and physical training and
bicycle to get to a patient.
in the United Kingdom include maintaining
part of the job.
public order through fighting organised crime,
taking part in training on techniques, use of equipment and related matters; maintaining
Typical work activities
countering the threat of terrorism and acting
the level of physical fitness necessary to
A paramedic’s day is always different as they
against antisocial behaviour. Police officers
carry out all the duties of a firefighter.
constantly have a new set of patients who
work closely with members of the criminal
Additional duties could encompass
can be suffering from a range of illnesses.
justice system, social workers, schools, local
maintaining links with the local community
Even if some illnesses become more prevalent
businesses, health trusts, housing authorities,
and educating and informing the public to
at certain times of the year, there will still be
town planners and community groups to
help promote fire safety, e.g. giving talks
variation in the work as each patient with the
provide advice, education and assistance
in schools and to local organisations, and
same illness will have a different scenario.
to those who wish to reduce crime or have
home visits to offer advice.
Although the work is diverse there are some
been affected by crime.
Managers within the service perform
regular tasks, which include responding to
additional supervisory activities, which
999 calls for medical assistance at accidents,
Typical work activities
include managing operational incidents
emergencies and other related incidents,
The work of a police officer is both
and also directing the day-to-day tasks of
usually in an ambulance with an ambulance
challenging and diverse. A variety of
personnel on fire stations. Tasks typically
technician or emergency care assistant to
specialist roles are available to constables
pharmacology, cancer studies, microbiology,
They also need to keep abreast of the
period and their Diploma in Police Service
genomics, bioinformatics, biotechnology
work of other scientists both within
Leadership and Management (Scotland),
and stem cell research. The work is close
the life sciences arena and in the wider
their Higher Education Certificate in Policing
to the medical sciences but also crosses
scientific community.
(Northern Ireland), or their Diploma in
over into other areas such as biochemistry.
Policing (England and Wales). On entry
Researchers within this field are
and during initial training, activities are
primarily involved in planning, conducting
Statistician
likely to include working in partnership
and analysing experiments, either with a
Statisticians are concerned with the
with communities, liaising with community
definite end use (to develop new products,
collection, analysis, interpretation and
groups and individuals, providing a visible
processes or commercial applications) or
presentation of quantitative information.
presence to deter crime and reassure the
to broaden scientific understanding in
Working in a range of sectors – including
public and conducting patrol duties on foot,
general. Although a researcher will usually
health, education, government, finance,
by car and bicycle. Other tasks are likely to
carry out their experiments and research
the environment, transportation and
encompass responding to calls and requests
on their own, they will typically be part
market research – they design and manage
from the public to assist at incidents, defusing
of a larger team and share their findings
experiments and surveys, and deal with
potentially volatile situations with due regard
and relevant information with colleagues.
the initial collection of data. They process
for the safety of all involved and keeping
This is sometimes done at international
and analyse the data in context, looking
the peace at public meetings, social events,
conferences or through the publication
for patterns to help make decisions.
processions, trade disputes or strikes.
of research papers.
Statisticians often work in teams,
Additional duties could include acting
Research scientists work in commercial
usually including professionals from other
with sensitivity when dealing with situations
or government laboratories, hospitals and
disciplines. Strong analytical and IT skills
such as delivering news of a sudden death to
higher education institutions.
are essential, as are interpersonal and
CHAPTER 2 | jobs directory
who have completed their probationary
communication skills in order to share
a family or when dealing with sexual crimes,
findings with colleagues and clients.
Typical work activities
evidence, taking statements and complying
The exact nature of the work depends
with relevant legal requirements and
on the level of seniority of a research post,
Typical work activities
interviewing suspects, victims and witnesses
the specific area of life sciences studied
Often with the aid of mathematical
in accordance with relevant legislation.
and also whether the context is industrial
techniques and software, statisticians
Other possible elements of the role are
or academic. However, most life science
interpret data and communicate results
conducting arrests with due regard for the
researchers are involved in activities such
to their clients. They ensure that complex
human rights, security and health and safety
as devising and conducting experiments,
statistical concepts are explained in a way
of detained individuals, members of the
processing and analysing results and data
the client can understand and often advise
public, colleagues and self, preparing crime
and communicating results to the scientific
on strategy. Typical tasks undertaken by
reports and presenting case files to senior
community via published papers.
statisticians include consulting with clients
officers and the Crown Prosecution Service
Additional tasks include carrying
and agreeing what data to collect and how
(CPS) (England and Wales), the Crown
out fieldwork to inform their research,
it should be gathered, taking into account
Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS)
collaborating with industry/academia to
any ethical and legislative considerations,
(Scotland), or the Public Prosecution Service
apply the results of research and develop
advising policymakers on key issues such
for Northern Ireland (PPS) and attending
new techniques, products or practices and
as hospital waiting lists and designing,
and giving evidence in court and at other
presenting ongoing work and findings to
implementing and analysing clinical studies.
hearings. Further duties are likely to include
colleagues at academic conferences and
Some of the other work they could be
submitting internal crime reports and
summarising the nature of their research,
asked to do includes providing projections
criminal intelligence reports, investigating
their methodology and their findings.
of future student numbers, analysing data
and taking action on information received
Other aspects of the role encompass
to forecast trends for pension providers
from the public and attending road-related
teaching, demonstrating to, or supervising
and monitoring, reporting and modelling
incidents including collision scenes, vehicle
students, training and supervising other
disease outbreaks. Statisticians also take
checkpoints and traffic offences.
members of staff and devising or helping
part in checking quality-control standards
to draw up new research proposals and
in industry and predicting consumer demand.
applying for funding and grants. Researchers in life sciences rely on
Research within life sciences covers a whole
peer reviews of their written publications
range of scientific disciplines including
and presentations in order to validate
neurosciences, plant sciences, physiology,
their theories and inform their research.
094 / 095
Research scientist (life sciences)
Armed forces & emergency services
conducting initial investigations, gathering
Business, consulting & management
Overview of the sector in the UK
Graduate jobs
This sector, also known as the professional services industry, is all about and help them solve problems and enhance their capabilities. Businesses need
Chartered management accountant
advice on a wide range of issues including:
Chartered management accountants
• financial management;
prepare, develop and analyse key financial
• human resources (HR) management;
information to ensure that an organisation’s
• information technologies;
management makes well-informed decisions
• operational management;
to ensure future stability, growth and
• strategy and planning.
profitability. They establish and maintain
improving the performance of businesses. Consultants advise organisations
financial policies and management The consulting industry in the UK is worth around £8.5 billion and employs
information systems and provide a high-
more than 80,000 people. Business managers specialise in areas such as
quality support service by liaising with
HR and IT and support firms both from within the company and as external
management colleagues on all aspects of
services suppliers. There is some overlap with the accountancy, banking
finance. The role combines accounting
and finance sector; professionals from both sectors often work together
skills with business management skills.
to ensure the best outcome for the client.
A chartered management accountant’s role is to look to the future. They analyse
What’s it like working in the sector?
the performance of a business and advise
Graduates entering the business, consulting and management sector
on how to pre-empt problems, adapt
can expect:
to changing circumstances and improve
• a varied working life, dealing with more than one project at a time;
value. This is done by managing and
• a starting salary of between £25,000 and £30,000 for junior consultants,
reducing operational and production costs
rising to £50,000 with a few years’ experience and considerably more
and implementing newer, more effective
for senior consultants;
strategies. They can work in a specific
• working hours to be typically long and focused on getting the
division or across the whole organisation.
project complete; • a high-pressure environment to meet tough targets.
Typical work activities Typical work activities include preparing
What are the key issues in the sector?
periodic financial statements, including
Consultancy firms that have historically competed are now working together.
profit-and-loss accounts, budgets, cash
Firms in this sector are diversifying and specialising. This is known as
flows, variance analysis and commentaries
‘segmentation’ and will lead to more niche business services and consulting and
and providing a support service by working
management roles in the future, as new technologies and business issues emerge.
with all departments and the management
To enter this sector, you will need to acquire some relevant work experience.
team to help make financial decisions. Further likely duties encompass ensuring spending is kept in line with
The precise nature of the job depends
Economists use specialist software
decisions and formulating business
on which Fast Stream option you choose
and advanced methods in statistical
strategies and advising on the financial
to undertake and changes from placement
analysis to assemble, sift and present
implications and consequences of business
to placement. However, all fast streamers
this information, which is then used to
decisions. Other typical tasks include
can expect to work in three broad areas:
advise businesses and other organisations,
analysing financial performance and so
front-line operational delivery, policy and
including government agencies.
contributing to medium- and long-term
corporate services.
business planning/forecasts, negotiating
CHAPTER 2 | jobs directory
the budget, informing key strategic
Typical work activities
on major projects, loans and grants and
Typical work activities
Areas of research can cover any aspect of
offering professional judgment on financial
Civil Service Fast Streamers are expected
economic and social policy, ranging from
matters and advising on ways of improving
to become good leaders and managers.
interest rates, taxation and employment
business performance.
After completing the programme (normally
levels to energy, health, transport and
Additionally, chartered management
four years, but it varies), Fast Stream
international development. Tasks typically
accountants are often responsible for liaising
entrants might be managing a multimillion-
involve devising methods and procedures
with other function managers to put the
pound budget or taking the lead in drafting
for obtaining data, understanding various
finances and accounts in context, monitoring
a government White Paper. Work activities
sampling techniques that may be used
and evaluating financial information systems
depend on the Fast Stream option you
to conduct different types of surveys
and suggesting improvements where needed
choose and also on the nature of the
and creating, as well as using, various
and implementing corporate governance
placement or posting. However, typical
econometric modelling techniques to
procedures, risk management and
tasks may include rapidly developing an
develop forecasts.
internal controls.
in-depth knowledge of a particular subject
Other typical duties include
The role will vary depending on the
or issue, to the extent that you will be
understanding and interpreting data,
management structure. For example, there
consulted as a topic expert, representing
analysing data to test the effectiveness of
may be some openings in large firms with
your department’s interests and negotiating
current policies, products or services and
a focus on a business advisory role.
with others to reach a position of mutual
advising on the suitability of alternative
There may also be some variation to
satisfaction and contributing constructively
courses of action and the allocation of
the function depending on the nature of the
to issues where many interests are involved.
scarce resources. The role also encompasses
organisation (commercial, public sector or
Additionally, typical duties could
communication activities such as writing
not-for-profit) and, with larger organisations,
encompass formulating and implementing
various technical and non-technical reports on
the department or departments that the
policy, communicating complex ideas clearly,
economic trends and forecasts to inform the
individual is based in or supports.
both orally and in writing (e.g. you may be
press and public and conducting numerous
required to summarise a 1,000 page report
oral and visual presentations, in a clear,
into a page of A4 for a busy minister)
jargon-free way, as well as providing
Civil Service fast streamer
and working quickly and under pressure,
economic advice to a range of stakeholders.
The Civil Service Fast Stream is an accelerated
often within complex rules and procedures.
Specific work projects could include
development programme for graduates,
Another element of the role is leading and
subjects as diverse as assessing the economic
preparing them for careers at the highest
managing projects, resources and people, and
impact of national events on the UK, e.g. the
levels of the Civil Service. It allows graduates
achieving and delivering results to deadline.
London 2012 Olympic Games, analysing the
to gain wide-ranging experience in a very
potential job creation of inward investment projects and analysing the efficiency of
Economist
scarce resources in large organisations such
government, Civil Service fast streamers
Economists provide specialist advice based
as the NHS. Other projects might involve
take on a range of contrasting placements
on the application of economic theory and
analysing the performance of companies
or postings in government departments
knowledge. They do this by studying data
with a view to advising fund managers or
and agencies. This provides the opportunity
and statistics and using their understanding
clients on investments and analysing the
to build up a great portfolio of experience
of economic relationships to uncover
economic impact of transport infrastructure
by moving between areas of work
trends, carrying out considerable amounts
development. Economists may also advise
and projects.
of research and collecting large amounts
government, employers or trade unions on
Fast Streamers usually work in more
of information. They then analyse all the
the economic implications of policy options,
than one government department and in
data they have amassed to assess feasibility,
prepare briefs for government ministers
different parts of the UK. Opportunities for
produce forecasts of economic trends,
and answer ministers’ questions. The role
secondment into the private sector, charities
determine the implications of their findings
can include producing research on the
or other public sector organisations also exist.
and recommend ways to improve efficiency.
global economy to influence international
096 / 097
Working with and for central
Business, consulting & management
short time.
economic organisations and forums,
immediate and wider environment, and
to clients and colleagues to enable them to
e.g. the International Monetary Fund (IMF)
undertaking field work to identify previous
make sound business decisions. Specific work
and the G8, and study how exchange rates
activities on the site and any contamination.
environments vary considerably and include
affect the competitiveness and productivity
The role typically also includes report writing
both public and private sector organisations,
of UK and international trade.
and communicating with regulators and sub-
such as multinational corporations, retailers,
contractors such as analytical laboratories.
financial institutions, NHS trusts, charities, manufacturing companies, universities and
Environmental consultant
general businesses.
Environmental consultants work on
Fast food restaurant manager
Financial considerations are at the root of
commercial or government contracts to
A fast food restaurant manager is essentially
all major business decisions. Clear budgetary
address a variety of environmental issues
a commercial business manager, with ultimate
planning is essential for both the short and the
for their clients. They cover a wide range of
responsibility for safeguarding the financial
long term, and companies need to know the
disciplines such as assessment of air, land
success of a specific outlet/site and maintaining
financial implications of any decision before
and water contamination, environmental
the reputation of the company. The role has
proceeding. In addition, care must be taken
impact assessment, environmental audit,
a strong hospitality element, ensuring that
to ensure that financial practices are in line
waste management and the development
the restaurant delivers high-quality food and
with all statutory legislation and regulations.
of environmental policy and environmental
drink and good customer service. However, it
management systems.
also includes activities common to business
Typical work activities
Environmental professionals are
managers within any sector, including
The roles of financial managers vary
employed throughout the economy in
overseeing marketing, sales, operations,
significantly. The generic nature of the
areas such as consultancy, government
finance and human resources. In some
job title can be misleading as the level
(including local government and national
organisations, management is on a relatively
and scope of the responsibilities involved
regulatory organisations) and water-related
large scale, as some restaurants have a turnover
in any role can differ enormously. In larger
organisations. A career as an environmental
of over £1 million and more than 50 staff.
companies for instance, the role is more
consultant offers the opportunity for
concerned with strategic analysis, while in
a structured professional path with the
Typical work activities
smaller organisations a financial manager
potential to specialise in an area of interest.
The concept of fast food no longer conjures
may be responsible for the collection and
up images of burgers and pizza. Coffee
preparation of accounts.
Typical work activities
houses, sandwich shops and even sushi bars
In general, tasks across roles may
Day-to-day activities vary considerably
are now considered to be fast food outlets.
include: providing and interpreting financial
due to the range of work covered by
The managers of all these establishments,
information, monitoring and interpreting
environmental consultants. However, a
regardless of their end product, face similar
cash flows and predicting future trends and
key task is to identify whether land, air or
responsibilities, including operational,
analysing change and advising accordingly.
water is contaminated, by means of desk-
financial and people management.
Other likely responsibilities are researching
based research and fieldwork, and then to
Other duties include working to ensure
and reporting on factors influencing
undertake an assessment to identify if that
standards of hygiene are maintained and
business performance, developing financial
contaminant source can have an adverse
that the restaurant complies with health
management mechanisms that minimise
impact on a receptor (such as humans
and safety regulations as well as ensuring
financial risk and analysing competitors and
or groundwater, for example).
high standards of customer service are
market trends, as well as liaising with auditors
Typical activities include managing
maintained and handling customer
to ensure annual monitoring is carried out.
legislative issues for clients and maintaining
complaints and queries.
Another aspect of the role is developing
an awareness of how legislation impacts
Additional responsibilities encompass
external relationships with appropriate
projects, conducting field surveys, collecting
establishing relationships with the local
contacts, e.g. auditors, solicitors, bankers
data to establish a baseline condition for
community and undertaking activities that
and statutory organisations such as the
levels of pollution or contamination for a
comply with the company’s corporate social
Inland Revenue, and keeping abreast of
site or area of consideration and detailed
responsibility programmes and devising
changes in financial regulations and legislation.
interpretation of data to identify whether
and marketing promotional campaigns.
Likely tasks also include supervising staff.
involve identification and consideration
Financial manager
Health service manager
of the potential contaminant sources,
Financial managers (also known as financial
A health service manager is responsible
critical pathways and receptors that could
analysts or business analysts) are responsible
for the provision and commissioning of
potentially have an adverse impact on the
for providing financial advice and support
local healthcare through the management
‘contamination’ exists in accordance with current legislation. Other typical duties
Hotel manager
hotel, which may include carrying out
community health services. Managers liaise
A hotel manager is responsible for the
reception duties or serving meals if the
with clinical and non-clinical staff and other
day-to-day management of a hotel and its
need arises.
partner organisations, while considering
staff. They have commercial accountability
A significant number of hotel managers
the demands of political policy and local
for budgeting and financial management,
are self-employed, which often results in a
circumstances.
planning, organising and directing all hotel
broader set of regular responsibilities, from
There is a huge range of managerial
services, including front-of-house (reception,
greeting guests to managing finances.
roles within health services, including those
concierge, reservations), food and beverage
in finance, HR, clinical management, staff
operations, and housekeeping. In larger
management, project management and
hotels, managers often have a specific remit
IT consultant
procurement, information management,
(guest services, accounting, marketing) and
IT consultants work in partnership
facilities management and operational
make up a general management team.
with clients, advising them how to use
management. Most jobs are in NHS settings,
While taking a strategic overview
information technology in order to meet
with opportunities also increasing in the
and planning ahead to maximise profits,
their business objectives or overcome
private healthcare sector.
the manager must also pay attention to
problems. They work to improve the
the details, setting the example for staff to
structure and efficiency of an organisation’s
Typical work activities
deliver a standard of service and presentation
IT systems.
Managers in both the NHS and the
that meets guests’ needs and expectations.
Organisations may use IT consultants
private sector are required to manage
Business and people management are equally
to provide strategic guidance with regard
the cost, delivery and quality of healthcare
important elements.
to technology, IT infrastructures and the
CHAPTER 2 | jobs directory
of hospital, general practitioner (GP) or
enablement of major business processes
services. Depending on the department
through system enhancements. They can
may involve liaising and negotiating with
Work activities vary depending on the size
also provide guidance during selection and
medical and non-medical staff internally
and type of hotel, but may include planning
procurement, plus highly expert technical
(often at the most senior levels) and with
and organising accommodation, catering
assistance, and they may be responsible for
people in external organisations, e.g. social
and other hotel services, promoting and
user training and feedback. IT consultants
services, voluntary groups or the private
marketing the business and recruiting,
may also be involved in sales and business
sector. Additional responsibilities are
training and monitoring staff. Monetary
development, as well as technical duties.
managing clinical, professional, clerical and
duties are likely to encompass managing
administrative staff as well as managing
budgets and financial plans as well as
Typical work activities
their recruitment, selection, development
controlling expenditure, maintaining
Tasks typically involve meeting with
and appraisal process.
statistical and financial records.
clients to determine requirements and
Further tasks are likely to involve
Other typical tasks include setting
define the scope of a project and planning
gathering and analysing data and using
and achieving sales and profit targets
timescales and the resources needed and
it to plan and manage both projects and
and analysing sales figures and devising
clarifying a client’s system specifications,
systems, implementing new policies and
marketing and revenue management
understanding their work practices and
directives and extrapolating data for quality
strategies. Additionally, the role may
the nature of their business. The role is
assurance and monitoring purposes, along
involve supervising maintenance, supplies,
likely to involve travelling to customer
with planning and undertaking strategic
renovations and furnishings, dealing with
sites. Other possible duties include
changes to improve service delivery. Other
contractors and suppliers and ensuring
defining software, hardware and
typical duties include setting budgets and
security is effective. Further possible duties
network requirements, developing
maintaining finances within tight constraints,
include carrying out inspections of property
agreed solutions and implementing
attending meetings, writing reports and
and services and customers, ensuring
new systems and presenting solutions
delivering presentations to a variety of
compliance with licensing laws, health and
in written or oral reports.
audiences, as well as undertaking clinical
safety and other statutory regulations and
Further typical duties involve
governance and audit.
addressing problems and troubleshooting.
purchasing systems where appropriate,
Additionally, the role can encompass
The manager of a large hotel may
designing, testing, installing and
managing premises, catering, cleaning,
have less contact with guests but will have
monitoring new systems and organising
portering and security (often via
regular meetings with heads of department
training for users and other consultants.
subcontractors) and purchasing equipment
to coordinate and monitor the progress of
IT consultants are often asked to present
and supplies and organising stores.
business strategies. In a smaller establishment,
progress reports to customers, as well
Likely tasks can also include handling
the manager is much more hands-on and
as identifying potential clients and
communications and corporate affairs.
involved in the day-to-day running of the
maintaining contacts.
098 / 099
Typical work activities
Business, consulting & management
and the specific nature of the role, tasks
management consultant
Other likely responsibilities include
public policy advice to their clients.
Management consultants help organisations
managing projects and programmes and
Clients may include private-sector
to solve issues, create value, maximise growth
leading and managing those within the
companies, trade associations, charities
and improve the business performance of
team, including analysts.
and not-for-profit organisations, and
their clients. They use their business skills
overseas governments. Keeping abreast
to provide objective advice, expertise and
of political developments, in order to
specialist skills, which the organisation
Office manager
advise clients on a possible response,
may be lacking.
Office managers organise and supervise all of
is vital to the role. Key information is
Management consultants are primarily
the administrative activities that facilitate the
sought from personal contacts, a range
concerned with the strategy, structure,
smooth running of an office. They carry out
of media sources and political intelligence
management and operations of an
a range of administrative and IT-related tasks,
and monitoring.
organisation. They will identify options for
depending on the employing organisation,
Public affairs consultants identify
the organisation, suggest recommendations
and the work may vary from running the
key stakeholders in the decision-making
for change and help with additional
administrative side of a small employer’s
process at European, national, regional
resources to implement solutions.
business as a sole administrator to overseeing
and local government levels. They work
Consultants operate across a wide
the office work of numerous staff.
to maintain relationships with these
variety of services such as business strategy,
Although the work of an office manager
individuals and to assist clients to promote
marketing, financial and management
differs greatly across organisations, they
and protect their interests effectively.
controls, human resources, information
all have the responsibility for ensuring that
technology, e-business and operations,
their office runs efficiently. Job titles vary
Typical work activities
and supply-chain management. Consultancy
and office managers are often called office
These include monitoring information
firms range from larger firms offering end-
administrators, especially at more junior levels.
from Hansard, government departments, European institutions, think tanks, non-
to-end solutions to smaller or niche firms that offer specialist expertise, skills and
Typical work activities
governmental organisations (NGOs) and
industry knowledge.
Duties vary according to the type of
other bodies in order to inform clients of
employer, the size of the organisation and
any developments related to their field
Typical work activities
the management structure, but activities
of activity. Additional duties encompass
The day-to-day activities of management
typically include developing and implementing
researching, forecasting and evaluating the
consultants are often complex and varied.
new administrative systems, such as record
effects of public policy on an organisation,
Projects can vary in length depending on the
management, managing filing systems and
using public sources, political intelligence
type of consultancy, firm and the demands
recording office expenditure and managing
and personal contacts, and advising on
of the client. They can involve an individual
the budget.
potential responses that may be required.
or a large team and may be based in one
The role also involves organising the
Further likely activities include
location or across various sites including
office layout and maintaining supplies of
attending select committee hearings,
overseas. Typical tasks, particularly for
stationery and equipment, maintaining the
party conferences and other events,
new graduate recruits, involve carrying out
condition of the office and arranging for
establishing and maintaining two-way
research and data collection to understand
necessary repairs, and reviewing and updating
communication with relevant official
the organisation, conducting analysis
health and safety policies and ensuring they
bodies and stakeholders, and writing
and interviewing the client’s employees,
are observed. Additional duties include
newsletters, briefings and press releases.
management team and other stakeholders.
overseeing the recruitment of new staff,
The amount of time spent on the
Additional duties can also include
sometimes including training and induction,
above activities varies according to the
running focus groups and facilitating
ensuring adequate staff levels to cover for
employer and level of experience required.
workshops and preparing business proposals
absences and peaks in workload, often by
At entry level, you will be involved in a
and presentations. New recruits tend to
using temping agencies and carrying out
high level of research and information
spend most of their time at the client’s site.
staff appraisals, managing performance and
monitoring, while an account director
In addition to the above, tasks for
disciplining staff.
will be principally involved in strategic
more experienced and senior consultants
planning and relationship management.
also involve identifying issues and forming hypotheses and solutions, presenting
Public affairs consultant
findings and recommendations to clients,
Public affairs consultants are often referred
Recruitment consultant
implementing recommendations and
to as ‘lobbyists’, but their work is more
Recruitment consultants are responsible for
solutions and ensuring the customer receives
wide-ranging. They use their understanding
attracting candidates and matching them to
the necessary assistance to carry it all out.
of the political system to offer political and
temporary or permanent positions with client
promotions are accurate and merchandised
Secretarial/administrative work has
building relationships in order to gain a better
to the company’s standards, staff are fully
changed significantly over the years, and
understanding of their recruitment needs.
aware of the target for the day and excellent
the role varies greatly depending on the
Recruitment consultants attract
customer care standards are met.
sector, the size of the employer and levels
candidates by drafting advertising copy
Depending on the size of the store,
of responsibility. Most work involves both
for use in a wide range of media, as well
and company structure, retail managers
written and oral communication, word
as by networking, headhunting and through
may also be required to deal with human
processing and typing, and requires
referrals. They screen candidates, interview
resources, marketing, logistics, information
relevant skills such as IT, organisational
them, do background checks and finally
technology, customer service and finance.
and presentation skills, as well as the
match them to their clients. Consultants also
CHAPTER 2 | jobs directory
companies. They work with client companies,
ability to multitask and work well under
provide advice to both clients and candidates
Typical work activities
pressure, often juggling several tasks at
on salary levels, training requirements and
Depending on the size of store and the
once. Within specialist sectors such as
career opportunities.
area of retail, typical work activities may
law, many secretaries/administrators
The role of a recruitment consultant is
alter, but tasks typically involve managing
are required to have relevant, high-level
very sales orientated, although it also involves
and motivating a team to increase sales and
qualifications and/or previous experience.
helping individuals and organisations.
ensure efficiency and dealing with staffing
The role can often overlap with that
issues such as interviewing potential staff,
of a personal assistant.
Typical work activities
conducting appraisals and performance
A recruitment consultant’s role is demanding
reviews, as well as providing or organising
Typical work activities
and diverse and involves using sales, business
training and development.
Common tasks for the majority of
development, marketing techniques and
Other duties include managing stock
secretaries/administrators include word
networking in order to attract business from
levels and making key decisions about stock
processing, audio and copy typing, letter
client companies. The function typically
control as well as analysing sales figures and
writing, dealing with telephone and
includes working towards targets that may
forecasting future sales volumes to maximise
email enquiries, creating and maintaining
relate to the number of candidates placed,
profits. Additionally, retail managers are
filing systems, keeping diaries, arranging
a value to be billed to clients or business
typically responsible for ensuring standards
meetings/appointments and organising
leads generated and building relationships
for quality, customer service and health and
travel for staff. Depending on the
with clients.
safety are met, resolving health and safety,
sector, the role may also include using
Likely tasks encompass using candidate
legal and security issues and responding to
a variety of software packages to
databases to find the right person for the
customer complaints and comments.
produce correspondence, presentations
client’s vacancy, receiving and reviewing
Further activities can include maintaining
and documents and maintain records,
applications, managing interviews and
awareness of market trends in the retail
spreadsheets and databases, as well as
creating a shortlist of candidates and
industry, understanding forthcoming
manipulating complex statistical data.
requesting references and checking the
customer initiatives and monitoring what
Further typical duties may consist of
suitability of applicants before submitting
local competitors are doing, as well as
revising and maintaining office systems,
their details to the client. The role also
initiating changes to improve the business,
using content management systems to
requires the recruitment consultant to brief
e.g. revising opening hours to ensure the store
maintain and update websites and internal
the candidate about the responsibilities,
can compete effectively in the local market.
databases, and organising and storing
salary and benefits of the job in question.
paperwork, documents and computerbased information. There may be a financial
Secretary/administrator
aspect to the role with many secretaries
and salary rates and finalising arrangements
A secretary or administrator provides
and administrators processing invoices
between client and candidates and offering
both clerical and administrative support
and managing and maintaining budgets.
advice to both clients and candidates on
to professionals, either as part of a team
Additional activities may include booking
pay rates, training and career progression.
or individually. The role plays a vital part
rooms and conference facilities, attending
in the administration and smooth running
meetings, taking minutes and keeping notes
of businesses throughout industry.
and liaising with colleagues and external
Retail manager
Secretaries/administrators are involved
contacts to book travel and accommodation.
Retail managers are responsible for running
with the coordination and implementation
Other possible tasks encompass
stores or departments to meet a company’s
of office procedures and frequently have
recruiting, training and supervising junior
targets and policies. The aim of any retail
responsibility for specific projects and
staff and delegating work as required
manager is to maximise profit while
tasks and, in some cases, oversee and
and arranging both in-house and external
minimising costs. Retail managers ensure
supervise the work of junior staff.
events for colleagues and clients.
100 / 101
interviews for candidates, negotiating pay
Business, consulting & management
Additional duties include organising
Charities & voluntary work
Overview of the sector in the UK This sector is often referred to as the third sector, the
Many organisations in the sector were established by individuals
not-for-profit sector or the voluntary and community sector
(social entrepreneurs) who wanted to make a difference or hoped to
(VCS). Employment opportunities are grouped into:
meet a specific need or interest. Opportunities for setting up social
• administrative;
enterprises are currently being given particular stimulus by both
• advisory;
specialist organisations and universities.
• animal conservation;
Self-employment is also common among professionals in
• campaigning and lobbying;
other industries who provide a range of different services to
• conservation and environmental;
the sector.
• economic development and capacity building; • emergency and poverty alleviation;
What’s it like working in the sector?
• environmental research;
Graduates entering the charities and voluntary work sector
• financial management;
can expect:
• fundraising;
•h igh levels of work satisfaction;
• health education and promotion;
• a relatively low salary compared to the private sector, although
• human resources management, including volunteer management;
pay differs enormously depending on the job; •g ood opportunities for career progression and development;
• human rights;
• c ompetition to be high for paid employment;
• policy development;
• t o have to network to find opportunities.
• provision of care services and carer support; • public relations and branding;
What are the key issues in the sector?
• scientific and social research and development.
Keeping up to date with changes in government and nongovernment policy is important. Some major changes that have
However, it is worth noting that many jobs that are available
taken place recently include the Charities Act, which ushered
in businesses are also required in not-for-profit organisations,
in new financial reporting arrangements for charities, and the
for example, marketing, IT and accounting.
allocation of the Lottery Fund. Public sector cutbacks are likely
Employers include larger organisations that provide
to have an impact on organisations in this sector. This may lead
graduate training programmes, internships and structured
to them having to diversify activities or develop new partnerships
career development opportunities, as well as a range of
with private sector businesses.
smaller, specialised organisations. Due to their size, the
The voluntary sector looks set to benefit from social media,
latter may not be able to provide structured graduate training
such as Twitter and Facebook, as they enable fast, effective
schemes. However, they do provide an all-round experience
targeting of potential donors, volunteers and contributors for
that helps career progression within the sector.
fundraising and other campaigns aimed at internet users.
and maintaining confidential case records
for operational management issues such as
and administrative systems, too.
venue accessibility, health and safety issues and building maintenance and selecting and
Advice worker
training staff and negotiating contracts.
Advice workers provide free, impartial and
Arts administrator
At a more senior level, there may be
confidential advice to their clients on a wide
An arts administrator manages activities
some involvement in strategic planning
range of issues. Some advice workers offer
and services that support the arts sector,
and management decisions.
general guidance in several areas, such
involving projects and initiatives provided by:
as debt, housing, employment, welfare
• theatres, galleries and museums;
and education, while others specialise in
• arts festivals and centres;
Charity fundraiser
a particular area.
• dance companies;
Charity fundraisers are employed primarily to
Specialists are common in areas that
• community and disability arts organisations;
increase the contributions of individuals and
require in-depth knowledge or service
• local authorities and arts councils.
groups to a charity by building relationships and exploring new fundraising opportunities
a particular client group. These areas may include immigration, homelessness and
An administrator in a small organisation
from various sources. They tend to be
drug dependency.
may perform a variety of functions ranging
categorised according to the types of donors
There are usually no restrictions on
from marketing and booking performers
on whom they focus. The main categories of
people who can use the services of an advice
to finance and insurance matters. In larger
fundraiser are community, corporate, legacy,
worker, although clients will often belong
organisations they may specialise in specific
major gifts, trusts and events.
to groups with particular needs, such as
administrative areas such as programming,
In larger charities, fundraisers are
refugees or people with disabilities.
front-of-house management, public relations,
likely to specialise in one particular source.
marketing, education or sponsorship.
In smaller charities, a single fundraiser may
Typical work activities
Experienced arts administrators may provide
cover several types of potential donors.
The work of all advice workers is varied,
consultative support at managerial levels.
A unifying feature of all fundraising roles is building successful relationships with
but typically falls into six broad categories: information, advice, referral, mediation,
Typical work activities
representation and administration. The activities Arts administrator roles vary a great deal
supporters, so the ability to network is crucial. Fundraisers also work to raise awareness of
involved will depend on the kind of advice
between organisations, but activities may
provided and the seniority of the adviser,
typically include planning and organising
but most positions usually involve providing
logistics related to events, buildings,
Typical work activities
information to clients in person, on the
performers/artists and other personnel,
The various types of fundraising involve
phone and by email, interviewing them and
arranging performances, artists, venues,
different activities, but typically include
guiding them to decide on the best course
security, catering and sale of tickets and
motivating supporters and helping them to
of action based on the information available.
programming and booking performances
maximise the funds they raise and organising
The role is also likely to include researching
and events, including arrangements for
traditional activities, such as sponsored
individual cases, assessing problems and
tours in the UK and abroad.
outdoor events and house-to-house
identifying possible courses of action, as
The role may have a financial element,
collections of donated goods and money.
well as referring clients to other sources of
with arts administrators being involved in
Other possible duties consist of developing
help, for example solicitors, social workers
planning and managing budgets. Other skills
new and imaginative fundraising activities,
or other internal departments.
that may be needed include those of arts-
developing and coordinating web-based
Other possible activities consist of
related law, press liaison and public relations.
fundraising, online auctions and merchandise
mediating on a client’s behalf, for example,
Further likely duties consist of working to
sales and raising awareness of the charity
by writing letters, making phone calls or
secure funding for venues or specific events,
and its work by giving talks to groups or
attending meetings and representing clients
writing, or contributing to, publications that
creating media opportunities.
in court, at tribunals or disciplinary hearings.
accompany arts-related events and activities
Additionally, advice workers may
and marketing a performance or event
funds by researching and targeting charitable
become involved in producing information for
through a variety of media. Other possible
trusts whose criteria match the charity’s
publications, leaflets and websites, distributing
responsibilities include development of new
aims and activities, and overseeing corporate
publicity materials and setting up support
projects and initiatives in consultation with
fundraising, employee giving and matched
groups. Further likely duties include keeping
arts professionals and key stakeholders (e.g.
giving from employers. Other duties
up to date with appropriate legislation and
local education authorities, local government
encompass developing and implementing
Likely activities also include increasing
a strategy for individual and corporate supporter recruitment and development
102 / 103
regional arts boards), taking responsibility
the charity’s work, aims and goals.
Charities & voluntary work
policies, interpreting and explaining legislation, and communities, venue directors and documents or the content of letters to clients
CHAPTER 2 | jobs directory
Graduate jobs
and recruiting and managing volunteers
Community arts worker
negotiating with community groups to see
to carry out various functions within
Community arts workers collaborate with
what art form they would like to use for
the charity.
a wide variety of local groups, encouraging
the project and designing programmes and
the use of artistic activities to support their
workshops to engage different communities.
development and improve their quality of life.
Additionally, the role may involve
Charity officer
Generally, they work in areas where there
project-managing one-off events, such as
A charity officer is someone who works for
are social, cultural or environmental issues
festivals, and longer-term projects, including
or is a trustee of a charitable organisation.
to be addressed. They use a whole range
the setting up, monitoring and evaluation
This title can refer to personnel in several
of art forms to engage with these different
of the project. Community arts workers
roles within a charity. Roles vary considerably
community groups, including visual arts,
tend to build up a pool of arts professionals
depending on the size, aim and type of
theatre, dance, music, carnival arts and film.
to hire in or work with on projects and
organisation. In larger organisations, the role
Community arts worker is more of an
liaise with a wide range of people including
may focus on a specific area, such as project
umbrella term as job titles are now more
local authorities, schools, companies for
management, business development, finance,
specific and tend to relate quite closely to
sponsorship, freelance professionals and
marketing, public relations, fundraising or
the role or type of work. A range of job titles
specialist worker. Other possible elements
volunteer management. In smaller charities
are therefore used in this sector, including
of the role are delivering arts-related
the charity officer may undertake multiple
arts development officer, youth engagement
programmes and workshops, offering
tasks. Typical tasks range from applying for
officer, youth arts practitioner and community
advice and support to community groups
grants to managing volunteers to providing
projects assistant, to name a few.
on fundraising and forming projects, and
advice and information.
Creative practitioners are usually
designing and delivering training for different
freelance professionals. Project work may
community groups. Likely administrative
Typical work activities
fall into such categories as race, gender,
duties including bid writing, fundraising
Typical work activities vary according to
disability, health and the environment,
and managing budgets.
the organisation and the individual role.
and may focus on the following groups:
A charity officer in a global charity will have
young people, especially those at risk,
a different experience from a charity officer
young offenders, people with mental health
in a small, local charity. Due to limited funds
issues, ethnic minorities, the elderly, drug
Community development worker
and personnel, staff in small charities carry
users and people with disabilities.
Community development workers help
out several functions within a small team.
Depending on the role, the work
communities to bring about social change
Despite diversity in roles, there are
varies considerably between the facilitation
and improve the quality of life in their local
typical tasks that a charity officer undertakes,
and delivery of creative projects and more
area. They work with individuals, families and
including marketing and public relations to
administrative responsibilities.
communities to empower them to identify their assets, needs, opportunities, rights and
raise the profile of the organisation and/or campaign and designing fundraising materials
Typical work activities
responsibilities and plan what they want to
such as leaflets and flyers.
The work may vary between arts
achieve and take appropriate action.
Additional activities involve creating and
development, arts outreach work and
A community development worker
organising fundraising initiatives and events,
youth arts and education. In some local
often acts as a link between communities
approaching potential donors and maintaining
government positions, the role will have
and a range of other local authority
donor lists and recruiting and coordinating
more of an administrative and project
and voluntary sector providers. They are
the work of volunteers. Other possible
management focus and the artistic input
frequently involved in addressing inequality,
duties include liaising with external agencies,
will be provided by freelance community
and projects often target communities
including voluntary sector organisations, the
artists or professionals.
perceived to be culturally, economically
media, local authorities, business contacts,
In arts companies, agencies or
or geographically disadvantaged.
trustees and other stakeholders or clients and
charities, the community arts worker will
lobbying government and other policymakers
coordinate and project-manage and may
Typical work activities
on behalf of a cause or a client group.
also deliver alongside freelance artists.
Community development work seeks to
There are also a number of
Community artists who work on a freelance
actively engage communities in making sense
administrative tasks associated with the
basis may be involved in all aspects of the
of the issues that affect their lives, setting
role such as applying for grants and other
project including managing, delivery and
goals for improvement and responding to
sources of funding, managing budgets,
fundraising. Typical work activities include
problems and needs through empowerment
gathering data, preparing reports, database
working with a wide range of community
and active participation. A good deal of the
management and clerical work to meet the
groups to identify their needs and then
work is project-based, which means that
needs of the organisation.
adapting projects to meet these needs,
community development workers usually
and then facilitating access to the different
social deprivation or high unemployment, to
social group on which to focus. Tasks often
available projects and programmes that can
develop provision and to challenge individual,
involve identifying community skills, assets,
help with these needs.
collective and institutional perceptions about
issues and needs, ensuring that local people
In providing these activities, community
learning. In Northern Ireland, community
have their say and developing new resources
education officers work in partnership with a
education officers work in similar contexts
in dialogue with the community and
range of other local authority and voluntary
but are often involved in using education
evaluating existing programmes.
sector providers, as well as providers of
to foster better community relations.
Other typical duties include building
further and higher education.
CHAPTER 2 | jobs directory
have a specific geographical community or
links with other groups and agencies, helping
Information officer
Community education roles typically involve
Information officers manage and develop
groups and individuals to set up new
an element of community engagement to
the procurement, supply and distribution
services. Additional tasks could encompass
increase participation in mainly informal,
of information for an organisation or client
preparing reports and policies, raising funds
educational and recreational activities.
in support of their needs and objectives. They
and developing and agreeing to strategies.
Some roles, such as in adult literacy work,
work with electronic information, especially
The role may also involve mediating
may also include tutoring. While tasks
online databases, content management
in matters of conflict and challenging
vary depending on the specific role, they
systems and internet resources, as well as
inappropriate behaviour, as well as
typically include engaging with individuals
traditional library materials.
overseeing the management of a limited
and community groups, such as residents’
Services may be provided internally
budget. Further duties could include
associations, parents’ groups and young
and/or externally, and the role may
recruiting and training paid and voluntary
people, identifying local interests and needs
involve managing and exploiting internally
staff, encouraging participation in activities
and ways to meet them and formulating
produced information as well as sourcing
and planning, attending and coordinating
service plans and priorities. Other typical tasks
and providing materials from outside
meetings and events.
include helping potential learners to overcome
organisations. Job titles vary (for example
Community work can be generic or
existing barriers to learning, working with
information specialist, internet librarian,
specialised. Generic community work takes
individuals to create learning plans and
information scientist, knowledge assistant
place in a particular geographical area,
encouraging and influencing the development
or information manager), and it is important
focusing on working with the local population
of new learning opportunities through classes
to look beyond the title to the actual work
to identify their needs and issues, and
as well as individual tutoring and mentoring.
involved in the role.
formulating strategies to address those issues.
Likely duties also include sourcing
Information officers play a key role
The setting is either urban or rural, with rural
grants and funding for community projects
in a wide range of organisations and handle
community development work increasingly
and allocating and monitoring budgets.
all types of information, including scientific,
attracting attention. Specialised community
Additionally, community education officers
technical, legal, commercial, financial,
work focuses on either specific groups within
may become involved in community capacity
medical and educational.
a region (such as the homeless, the long-term
building through supporting the development
unemployed, families with young children or
of community or local voluntary groups and
Typical work activities
ethnic minorities) or on particular concerns
identifying the training needs of volunteers
Information officers are concerned with
(such as public transport, mental health or
and providing for them. Responsibilities may
managing information in order to make
tackling drug abuse).
also involve managing staff and dealing with
it easily accessible. Work activities vary,
team training, although this is more usual in
depending on the needs of the organisation
senior roles.
or client, but typically include classifying,
Community education officer
Depending on the role, some community
collating and storing information, for easy
A community education officer promotes a
education officers have responsibility for
access and retrieval. Other duties involve
wide range of educational and developmental
particular groups, such as young people,
selecting, managing and acquiring resources
activities to all members of the community.
families, black and ethnic minority groups,
to meet an organisation’s current and
Community education aims to encourage
unemployed adults or travelling people.
anticipated needs. Additional typical tasks
learning at all levels, from very basic life skills
Others promote participation in specific
consist of creating and searching databases
to learning for further and higher education.
settings, such as national parks, urban
and cataloguing, indexing scanning and
It also includes learning for enjoyment and for
and rural areas, and in specific communities
abstracting materials.
building better citizens and communities.
of interest, such as homeless people or
Other possible duties include conducting
The work involves engaging with
carers’ groups.
information audits; developing and managing
local individuals and groups to identify
Community education officers usually
electronic resources using, for example, online
community interests, needs and issues,
(though not exclusively) work in areas of
databases and content management systems
104 / 105
Typical work activities
to the community and liaising with interested
Charities & voluntary work
to raise public awareness on issues relevant
and running effective enquiry and current
implementing security procedures to ensure
Additional typical duties involve
awareness or ‘alerting’ services along with
the safety of staff working in unstable areas,
conducting market research, contributing
developing communications strategies.
maintaining an overview of the security
to, and developing, marketing plans
The role may also involve supervising
situation and making appropriate decisions.
and strategies and evaluating marketing
and training other information staff and
There may also be a requirement for
campaigns. There may also be a financial
budget management.
international aid/development workers
aspect to the role, such as managing budgets
to develop relationships with partner
and sourcing and securing sponsorship.
organisations in the field, negotiate and
International aid/development worker
liaise with other public bodies and other non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and
Public relations officer
International aid/development workers
undertake lobbying and advocacy to represent
Public relations (PR) is about managing
focus on meeting the needs of people
the needs of poor communities to sponsors,
reputation. This career field aims to gain
and communities in the developing world.
governments and the public.
understanding and support for clients
International development seeks to work
and to influence opinion and behaviour.
with developing countries to implement
PR officers use all forms of media and
long-term and sustainable solutions to
Marketing executive
communication to build, maintain and
problems. Many work on development
Marketing executives are involved in
manage the reputation of their clients.
projects in fields such as education,
developing marketing campaigns to
These range from public bodies or services
sanitation, health, agriculture and urban/
promote a product, service or idea.
to businesses and voluntary organisations.
rural/small business development.
The role includes planning, advertising,
They communicate key messages, often
Work in this sector is diverse and
public relations, organising events,
using third-party endorsements, to defined
encompasses governance, healthcare,
product development, distribution,
target audiences in order to establish and
education, gender equality, disaster
sponsorship and research. The work is
maintain goodwill and understanding
preparedness, infrastructure, economics,
often challenging, varied and exciting.
between an organisation and its public.
livelihoods, human rights, forced migration,
As many organisations have marketing
PR officers monitor publicity and
security, conflict and the environment.
departments, marketing executives can be
conduct research to find out the concerns
Career areas include administration,
found in both the private and public sectors,
and expectations of an organisation’s
research, fundraising, training, consultancy,
ranging from the financial, retailing and
stakeholders. They then report and explain
advocacy, relief work and economist
media industries to voluntary and public
the findings to its management.
roles, as well as professional roles within
sector organisations. Their responsibilities
health work, medicine, engineering
will vary, depending on the size of the
Typical work activities
and planning.
organisation and sector, and whether
A PR officer often works in-house and
Humanitarian and disaster relief
the focus is on selling a product or service
can be found in both the private and public
work may call for highly specific skills and
or on raising awareness of an issue that
sectors, from the utility and media industries
experience and usually involves short-term
affects the public.
to voluntary and not-for-profit organisations.
assignments. Development is a central
Marketing executives may also be known
Some PR officers may be based in
portal that brings together comprehensive
as marketing officers or coordinators.
consultancies. The role is very varied and will depend on the organisation and sector.
information on the many different aspects Typical work activities
Tasks often involve planning, developing
Marketing executives contribute to, and
and implementing PR strategies, liaising with
Typical work activities
develop, integrated marketing campaigns.
colleagues, key spokespeople and liaising
Job content varies according to seniority,
Tasks typically involve liaising and networking
with, and answering the enquiries of, media
organisation/project/employer and location
with a range of stakeholders including
outlets, individuals and other organisations.
of the role (UK or overseas), but may typically
customers, colleagues, suppliers and
include administering the day-to-day work
partner organisations, communicating with
researching, writing and distributing press
of an office or team, managing, monitoring
target audiences and managing customer
releases to targeted media along with writing
and evaluating projects and strategic
relationships, and maintaining and updating
and editing in-house magazines, case studies
planning for long-term development
customer databases. Other likely tasks
and annual reports. Additionally, the role
and/or disaster management to reduce
consist of sourcing advertising opportunities
may involve collating and analysing media
the need for crisis intervention.
and placing adverts in appropriate media,
coverage, commissioning market research and
Additional typical responsibilities
managing the production and distribution
maintaining and updating information on the
include evaluating the response required
of marketing materials and liaising with
organisation’s website. PR officers also often
in fast-moving emergency situations and
designers and printers.
organise events such as press conferences,
of international development.
Further responsibilities may include
inductions and training, and monitoring,
Additional likely responsibilities consist of
well as sourcing and managing speaking and
supporting, motivating and accrediting
meeting, liaising and networking with police,
sponsorship opportunities. Another possible
volunteers and their work.
educational establishments, social services,
aspect of the role is managing the PR aspect
Further responsibilities may include
Youth Offending Teams and other agencies to
of a potential crisis situation.
keeping up to date with legislation and
address issues and promote opportunities for
policy related to volunteering and making
young people. Further possible tasks include
any necessary modifications, along with
running arts-based activities, community/
Volunteer coordinator
financial duties such as managing budgets
environmental projects, residential activities,
Volunteer coordinators manage all
and resources, including the reimbursement
outdoor education and sporting activities
elements of volunteering either within
of expenses and generating income, writing
and recruiting, training and managing staff,
their own organisation or on behalf of the
funding bids and raising funds to make
including volunteers.
organisation for which they are recruiting
projects sustainable. Other possible aspects
The role is also likely to include working
volunteers. Their role involves assessing an
of the role consist of offering advice and
with parents and community groups to win
organisation’s needs and meeting them
information to volunteers and external
support for improved provision and acting
through the recruitment, placement and
organisations, attending committees and
as an advocate for young people’s interests
retention of volunteers.
meetings and working with multiple
and identifying and pursuing sources of
Volunteer coordinators manage
agencies across different sectors.
funding for projects to improve services and/
volunteers and their relationship with
CHAPTER 2 | jobs directory
exhibitions, open days and press tours, as
or resources for young people. There may
those they come into contact with,
also be a requirement for youth workers
including employees and service users
Youth worker
to undertake administrative tasks, verify
of an organisation. They also monitor,
Youth workers promote the personal,
information and respond to queries as well
evaluate and accredit volunteers.
educational and social development of
as drawing up business plans, writing reports
Volunteer coordinators work across all
young people aged 13–19, although in
and making presentations to funding bodies.
sectors including public and private, but
some cases they may extend this to those
Outreach workers engage with young
predominantly in the voluntary sector.
aged 11–13 and 19–25. Programmes aim
people in pubs and cafés and on the street
The role of a volunteer coordinator
to engage young people, redress inequalities,
to make contact with alienated and ‘at risk’
has gained increased recognition as a
value opinions and empower individuals
groups who reject formal activities.
profession within its own right; however,
to take action on issues affecting their lives,
in smaller charities it is sometimes combined
including health, education, unemployment
with another role.
and the environment, by developing positive skills and attitudes.
Typical work activities
Youth workers respond to the needs
Typical tasks include researching and
and interests of young people and work
writing volunteer policies and procedures,
in a range of environments: youth centres,
liaising with departments within their own
schools, colleges, faith-based groups and
organisation or with organisations for
Youth Offending Teams (see the Youth
which they are recruiting volunteers (e.g.
Justice Board for England and Wales).
charities and councils) to understand how
Methods include supporting recreational
they work, develop partnerships and assess
activities, providing advice and counselling,
their volunteering needs and raising staff
sometimes in an outreach setting.
awareness of the role and function of Youth workers’ roles vary greatly, but typical
opportunities and role descriptions based
activities involve managing and administering
on the needs of the organisation, ensuring
youth and community projects and resources,
there is appropriate support and training
assessing the needs of young people, and
for volunteers and promoting volunteering
planning and delivering programmes related
(internally and externally) through
to areas such as health, fitness, smoking,
recruitment and publicity strategies and
drugs, relationships and bullying. Other likely
campaigns. The role is also likely to involve
aspects of the role include befriending and
recruiting volunteers and ensuring they
supporting individuals in various settings
are appropriately matched and trained
and to encourage social inclusion, as well
for a position, organising rotas, providing
as offering them counselling.
106 / 107
Typical work activities
of generating appropriate volunteering
Charities & voluntary work
volunteers. Additional typical duties consist
Creative arts & culture
Overview of the sector in the UK Combining technological innovation with the traditional creative industries, the sector has a lot to offer those with the talent and drive to succeed. The Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) reported that in 2011 music and visual and performing
• a higher-than-average likelihood of working on a selfemployed or part-time basis; • t o have an unsteady income and often be working in advance of being paid for their outputs;
arts were the largest employers in the creative industries.
• t o earn less but achieve other objectives in their work;
Employment opportunities are grouped into:
•w orking hours to vary enormously, from regular 9 to 5
• advertising;
typical of cultural heritage occupations to unsocial hours
• craft;
undertaken by musicians and performers.
• cultural heritage; • design;
The sector can be highly competitive both to secure employment
• fashion;
and to develop within a role. Some occupations such as those
• film entertainment;
within media and publishing are highly sought after, while others
• literature;
such as performing arts are at risk of periods of unemployment
• music;
and may be subject to rapid change.
• performing arts;
The distribution of employment in this sector is uneven.
• photography;
Performing arts employment is focused within large cities,
• TV and radio;
notably London. The film, music and broadcasting industries are
• visual arts.
similarly based in large cities, particularly London, Manchester and Birmingham.
The creative arts sector is often paired with the digital sector
However, self-employment and working in small to
as digital technology provides the creative industries with the
medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) provides opportunities for
platforms and infrastructure to deliver the content.
creative art and culture to be carried out anywhere. For example,
In addition to this is the fashion industry which is worth
there have been recent initiatives to stimulate social enterprises
around £11.5 billion to the UK economy. It employs around
and cooperative enterprises in rural parts of the UK such as Wales
340,000 people and comprises three broad components –
and Cornwall.
design, manufacture and servicing.
Issues affecting the fashion industry include a poor image, loss of skills and competing with overseas companies who are
What’s it like working in the sector?
doing the same things but cheaper. In addition to this there
The creative arts sector is made up of a lot of small companies.
are skills shortages in a number of roles including:
According to the Creative and Cultural Industries 2012/13
•d yers and screen printers;
reports, 85 per cent of companies employ fewer than four
• f abric technologists;
people, 14 per cent employ 5 to 50 people and only 1 per
•p attern cutters and graders;
cent employ more than 50 people. Graduates entering the
• s upervisors and production staff;
creative arts and culture sector can expect:
• s upply chain managers.
Arts administrator
Self-employed designers/ceramicists also
See Charities & Voluntary Work section.
often prepare work for sale and exhibition and sell products directly from a studio,
Actor
market stalls or crafts fairs, online, by mail
An actor communicates a character and/or
Ceramics designer
order or through specialist craft shops
situations to an audience through speech,
Ceramics designers create designs for a
and galleries. Additionally, they may also
body language and movement. This usually
range of pottery objects that are then made
attend appropriate courses to learn new
involves interpreting the work of a writer
by shaping and firing clay. These objects
techniques and keep up to date with current
under the instruction and support of a
can include ceramic sculpture, domestic and
trends, teach in further education and run
director, although some work may require
commercial tableware and kitchenware,
community workshops.
the actor to devise a character or improvise
giftware, garden ceramics, jewellery and
Self-employed designers/ceramicists
the reactions of a character to a situation.
wall and floor tiles.
also need to promote their work to generate
Work varies enormously, from live stage
Ceramics designers who work for large
business. Typical activities therefore also
performances of the classics and community
companies interpret a product brief and
include networking to connect with buyers
theatre to soap operas, radio work and
turn it into a commercially successful design
and suppliers in their specialist market,
film parts. An actor’s role may also involve
for mass production. Ceramics designers/
researching trends, markets and prices by
education, training or therapy, as well
ceramicists who are self-employed or work
visiting craft exhibitions and demonstrating
as entertainment.
for small companies are more likely to both
their skills at craft fairs and exhibitions.
An acting career inevitably incorporates
design and make their own, one-off or
They may also get involved in photographing
periods of unemployment, underemployment
limited-edition, designs.
designs for a portfolio and for websites and
and alternative employment.
There is, however, some crossover and
catalogues promoting their work and learn
some self-employed designers/ceramicists
appropriate software skills to develop publicity
Typical work activities
may also undertake design commissions
materials and websites.
Work activities vary from actor to actor and
for major companies, where they provide
The role may also include collaborating
even for the same actor, depending on the
the design and the object is then mass-
with other designers in a shared studio, joint
contract. However, activities include varying
produced elsewhere.
exhibition, cooperative, craft guild or artists’
combinations of job seeking and networking,
CHAPTER 2 | jobs directory
Graduate jobs
organisation, entering competitions and
liaising with an agent and preparing for and
Typical work activities
attending auditions. Other elements of the
Ceramics designers working for large
job consist of learning lines and rehearsing,
companies in industry produce designs
researching or undertaking activities to
for mass production. They may also
Dancer
help prepare for a part and discussing
carry out activities such as interpreting
Dancers use movement, gesture and body
interpretation and delivery with other
and working to a design brief (which relates
language to portray a character, story,
members of the company and the director.
to the materials to be used – for example,
situation or abstract concept to an audience,
Performances can take place in front of
bone china, porcelain, earthenware or
usually to the accompaniment of music.
a live audience, in a studio or ‘on location’ for
stoneware – and also the amount of money
This normally involves interpreting the
film, television, internet and radio broadcast.
available) to design a new collection and
work of a choreographer, although it
Additionally, actors may take part in voice-
creating designs and liaising with clients,
may sometimes require improvisation.
overs for advertisements, record audiobooks
as well as overseeing production to ensure
Dancers work in a variety of genres
or work as walk-on extras for television
the brief is met.
including classical ballet, modern stage
or film.
The role typically involves deciding
dance, contemporary dance, street dance
Activities may also include managing
on decorative techniques and glazes and
and African or Asian dance. They may
the stage, costumes and props, undertaking
conducting market research to find out
perform to a live audience or take part in a
touring activities, such as driving a van, setting
what competitors are producing and how
recorded performance for television, film or
up and dismantling the performance area,
well existing lines are doing.
music video. Many dancers follow portfolio
as well as liaising with venue managers and
Other tasks for self-employed designers/
careers, combining performance with
accommodation providers.
ceramicists, or for those working for small
teaching, choreography or administrative
It is essential to realise that, on average,
companies, are likely to include designing
work in a dance company.
actors spend about 80 per cent of their
and producing one-off objects, selecting
working life ‘resting’ (i.e. not employed
materials appropriate to the design and
Typical work activities
as an actor), so it is important to have other
shaping clay by hand, thrown on a wheel
Work activities will differ from dancer to
ways of being occupied and generating
or in a mould, as well as loading kilns,
dancer, depending on the contract, but
an income.
glazing, decorating and firing products.
usually include varying combinations of
applying for funding.
Creative arts & culture 108 / 109
preparing for and attending auditions and
specifications relating to colour, fabric and
may focus more on the design aspect, with
casting sessions, preparing for performances
budget. The main areas of work for fashion
pattern cutters and machinists preparing
and performing to live audiences and for
designers are:
sample garments. In smaller companies
television, film and music video productions.
• high-street fashion: this is where the
these, and other tasks, may be part of the
Other typical work activities consist
majority of designers work and where
of studying, creating and interpreting
garments are mass manufactured (often
choreography, learning and using other
in Europe or East Asia). Buying patterns,
skills such as singing and acting – many
seasonal trends and celebrity catwalk
Fine artist
roles, for example in musical theatre,
influences play a key role in this design
Fine artists create original pieces of
require a combination of performance skills
process. It is a commercial area and
artwork through a variety of mediums.
and teaching dance, either privately or in
heavily media-led;
They often specialise in a particular type
the public sector. The role may also require
• ready-to-wear (also known as prêt-à-
designer’s role.
of artwork, which may be categorised
looking after costumes and equipment
porter): established designers create ready-
as two-dimensional (drawing, painting,
and taking care of the health and safety
to-wear collections, produced in relatively
collage), three-dimensional (sculpture,
of others, which requires knowledge and
small numbers;
installation) or four-dimensional (moving
observation of physiology and anatomy, as
• haute couture: this requires large amounts
images, performance).
well as safe use of premises and equipment.
of time spent on the production of one-off
Many artists also specialise in a subject
Additional responsibilities could
garments for the catwalk – which are often
and may concentrate on disciplines such as
include working in dance development and
not practical to wear – usually to endorse
landscapes, portraits or abstract. Fine artists
promotion, encouraging and enabling people,
other brands and create a ‘look’.
can be commissioned to produce a piece of work or they can create their own
especially children, to become involved in dance and to understand and appreciate
Typical work activities
pieces for sale at a later date. They may
it and running community workshops,
Tasks depend on the market the designer is
also run art classes or be part of a range
e.g. with disabled groups.
working for, but core responsibilities include
of community art projects.
Dancers also often undertake
creating/visualising an idea and producing
administrative, promotional or stage
a design by hand or using computer-aided
Typical work activities
management work, particularly in a
design (CAD), keeping up to date with
A fine artist will usually be involved in
small company or if setting up their own
emerging fashion trends as well as general
researching, planning and creating artwork.
companies. Furthermore, they may liaise with
trends relating to fabrics, colours and shapes
Typical tasks for an artist include generating
arts and dance organisations, theatres and
and planning and developing ranges.
and developing ideas, sketching, making
other venues on funding and contracts.
The role involves working with others
models and creating or developing a piece
Self-promotion is also a significant
in the design team, such as buyers and
of work in response to a brief or commission.
feature of the work, be it through sending
forecasters, to develop products to meet
Meeting deadlines is another element of the
out your CV and/or photographs/footage,
a brief, as well as liaising closely with sales,
role, as is working in a studio or off-site and
delivering presentations, running workshops
buying and production teams on an ongoing
adhering to health and safety procedures.
or attending auditions and meetings.
basis to ensure the item suits the customer,
The role also involves sourcing materials
market and price points.
and developing relationships with suppliers,
Typical responsibilities include
researching, visiting locations, interviewing
Fashion designer
understanding design from a technical
people, using libraries and the internet and
Fashion designers work on the design of
perspective, i.e. producing patterns, toiles
administration, correspondence and creating
items of clothing and fashion ranges. Some
and technical specifications for designs,
publicity. Additional typical responsibilities
may focus completely on one specialist area,
sourcing, selecting and buying fabrics, trims,
are project planning, creating and managing
such as sportswear, children’s wear, footwear
fastenings and embellishments and adapting
a budget, financial planning and calculating
or accessories. They produce designs for the
existing designs for mass production.
expenditure, managing tax and self-
haute couture, designer ready-to-wear and
Additionally, fashion designers develop
employment issues and writing funding
high-street fashion markets. Developments
patterns that are cut and sewn into sample
applications (public and private).
in technology mean that a design can be
garments, supervise the making up of these,
Fine artists may also become involved
on sale as a finished product on the high
including fitting, detailing and adaptations
in writing project proposals for galleries,
street within six weeks.
and oversee production. Other typical duties
competitions or artist residencies, applying
Depending on their level of
consist of negotiating with customers and
for residencies and competitions and liaising
responsibility and the company they work
suppliers, and, if working on a self-employed
with contacts, gallery owners, curators
for, designers may work to their own brief
basis, managing marketing and finances.
and other artists. Further activities could
or be given a brief to work towards, with
Experienced designers with larger companies
include curating individual and group shows,
presenting finalised ideas and concepts to
styles are appropriate and negotiating pricing
promotion, networking, attending private
clients or account managers, contributing
and deadlines. Additional responsibilities
views and other events.
ideas and design artwork to the overall brief
include analysing a brief’s specification and
and demonstrating illustrative skills with
the text to be illustrated as well as researching
rough sketches.
sources and creating images and designs by
Graphic designER
Further typical duties consist of
using the traditional hand skills of drawing
A graphic designer is responsible for
working on layouts and artworking
and painting, alongside other techniques such
creating design solutions that have a
pages ready for print, proofreading
as CAD, to meet design briefs. Illustrators
high visual impact. The role involves
to produce accurate and high-quality
also typically provide roughs for approval and
listening to clients and understanding
work and developing interactive design.
redefine a brief through further consultation
their needs before making design
There can also be a strong collaborative
with the client to include new ideas or text
decisions. Their designs are required for
element to the role, with graphic
as appropriate.
a huge variety of products and activities,
designers commissioning illustrators and
Other likely activities include running
such as websites, advertising, books,
photographers and working as part of a
the business, when working freelance,
magazines, posters, computer games,
team with printers, copywriters, stylists,
speculatively approaching potential
product packaging, exhibitions and
other designers, account executives, web
commissioners to seek new sources of
displays, corporate communications
developers and marketing specialists.
work and researching appropriate galleries
and corporate identity, e.g. giving
Whether they are self-employed,
to find suitable venues to exhibit work.
organisations a visual ‘brand’.
working freelance or employed within
A graphic designer works to a brief
a business, graphic designers often have
agreed with the client, creative director
to be proactive in presenting or ‘pitching’
Museum/gallery curator
or account manager. They develop
their ideas and designs to the agency
A museum or gallery curator acquires,
creative ideas and concepts, choosing
director and/or prospective clients.
cares for, develops, displays and interprets
CHAPTER 2 | jobs directory
negotiating a sale or commission and self-
a collection of artefacts or works of art in
the appropriate media and style to meet
order to inform, educate and inspire the
the client’s objectives. The work demands
Illustrator
public. In addition to responsibility for a
industry software and a professional
An illustrator uses art, design and creative
particular collection, the job can include
approach to time, costs and deadlines.
skills to communicate ideas, sensations,
other activities, such as public relations,
facts, feelings and emotions. Illustrators
marketing, fundraising and education
Typical work activities
work to commercial briefs to inform,
programmes. Curators are also expected
A graphic designer’s job may involve
persuade or entertain a client’s intended
to prepare budgets, manage staff and
managing more than one design brief at
audience, adjusting the mood and style
build relationships with both internal and
a time and allocating the relevant amount
of images accordingly.
external partners and stakeholders.
of time according to the value of the job.
Work is predominantly freelance.
There is a growing need for museums,
Typical activities include meeting clients or
Possible markets include editorial
galleries, heritage and tourism attractions to
account managers to discuss the business
(magazines, newspapers and comics),
develop collaborative relationships and share
objectives and requirements of the job,
books and advertising (posters, storyboards,
collections, as well as their expertise. It is
interpreting the client’s business needs and
press), as well as fashion (forecasting),
essential that curators construct innovative
developing a concept to suit their purposes
merchandising (greetings cards, calendars,
and creative exhibitions that appeal to a
and estimating the time required to complete
t-shirts, ceramics, etc.), corporate work
wide cross-section of the general public.
the work and providing quotes for clients.
(brochures, catalogues) and multimedia
Other likely responsibilities are
(video games, websites, animation).
Typical work activities
developing design briefs by gathering
Specialist areas include scientific,
The specific responsibilities of a curator can
information and data through research,
technical and medical illustration. In these
vary from museum to museum. At a small
thinking creatively to produce new ideas and
fields, illustrators create illustrations for
independent museum, a curator may, in
concepts and using innovation to redefine
text and reference books that may show
effect, manage the museum, looking after the
a design brief within the constraints of cost
new products, processes or techniques.
collection, operations, staff and volunteers, whilst at a large national museum a curator
and time. Additionally, graphic designers Typical work activities
may be responsible for one specific area of
photography and computer-aided design
Work activities typically involve liaising
the collection, for research in a specific field
(CAD) and keep abreast of emerging
with clients, editors and authors in order
of knowledge and for the management of
technologies in new media, particularly
to understand and interpret their business
a small team of assistants and volunteers.
design programmes. The role also involves
needs, building an understanding of what
However, typical activities are likely to
110 / 111
work with a wide range of media, including
Creative arts & culture
creative flair, up-to-date knowledge of
include the responsibility for a collection of
several organisations. Musicians usually
Most professional photographers
artefacts or works of art, acquiring objects
specialise in a particular type of music
specialise in one area, such as fine
or collections of interest to the museum/
although many now branch out into
art, fashion, advertising, editorial or
gallery and cataloguing acquisitions and
different genres and work in more than
social photography. Around half of
keeping records. Museum/gallery curators
one area of the profession. This is called
all professional photographers are
also carry out background research and write
a portfolio career. The job requires high
self-employed. The rest work for a
catalogues, display objects or collections
levels of skill, expertise and dedication,
wide range of employers, including
in way that makes them accessible to the
especially since competition to work in
creative businesses, publishers and
general public and undertake collection
this field is high. Most musicians do their
photographic agencies, or in the
documentation and management.
job as they have a passion for music and
education or public sector.
There may also be an element of
a strong desire to perform.
writing to the role, with curators asked
Typical work activities
to produce materials and articles for
Typical work activities
their organisation’s website and for
Many of a musician’s activities will be similar
specialisation. However, common activities
internal and external publications
regardless of the specific field or genre they
for most photographers include working
and preparing bids. Another area of
work in. However, there will be variations
with clients to discuss the images they
responsibility may include planning,
between someone who is a full-time member
require and how they want to use them,
organising, interpreting and presenting
of an orchestra and someone who works
seeking out appropriate photographic
exhibitions and lectures, collaborating
freelance in another field such as jazz or rock.
subjects and opportunities and carrying
with other museum departments, such
General tasks for all musicians can include
out research and preparation for a shoot.
as education, fundraising, marketing
performing in concerts and participating in
Other typical tasks involve working
and conservation and negotiating loan
recording sessions, practising regularly and
in different locations and in different
items and external loans and the
preparing for and attending auditions and
circumstances to get the right image, using
accompanying funding.
rehearsals. Other general activities involve
an extensive range of technical equipment,
Additional requirements may include
maintaining the instrument, setting up/tuning
including cameras, lenses, lighting and
handling enquiries from researchers, the
the instrument and other equipment as well
specialist software and communicating with
public, clients and stakeholders, as well as
as arranging for its transport, if it is large,
photographic subjects, putting them at
dealing with and understanding computer-
and learning new pieces of music.
ease, encouraging them and directing them.
generated imagery and website software
Musicians also often handle the
Photographers also arrange still-life objects,
as part of enhancing the visitor experience
administration of business activities such as
products, scenes, props and backgrounds.
and interaction. Typical tasks may also
promotion, handling accounts, negotiating
In addition, the role often entails liaising
consist of budget planning, forecasting and
fees and organising distribution of their
with other professionals, including graphic
reporting, staff management, recruitment,
recordings both offline and online, e.g.
designers, writers, gallery managers, picture
annual appraisals and disciplinary matters
making their music available for sale on
researchers, commissioning editors and
and personnel training, promotion and
iTunes. Additional activities include seeking
art directors. There is a strong element of
development. There may also be an element
out and liaising with new venues in which to
technical expertise associated with the role,
of liaison with voluntary groups, the
perform and delivering educational work in
with responsibilities such as managing the
community and industry, as well as grant
schools, businesses and the wider community.
processing and use of images, discussing
agencies to secure sponsorship for events,
Many musicians also work in a related
problems, checking for quality and dealing
publications and development projects.
area such as the arts, or teach in order to
with clients’ concerns; using software to
The role may also encompass
support their career as a performer.
digitally enhance images and understanding
networking with other museum and art
Work activities vary according to
traditional film and digital photography and
gallery professionals and outside agencies.
keeping up to date with industry trends and
Photographer
developments. Additionally, photographers
Photographers create permanent visual
prepare proofs for approval and compile
Musician
images for an exceptionally wide range
finished products for sale, including albums
A musician is an instrumentalist, singer
of creative, technical and documentary
and framed prints, for example, as well
or composer who creates and/or performs
purposes. A professional photographer
as developing a good portfolio, building
music. This can be recorded in a studio
usually works to a brief set by the client or
a network of contacts and achieving a
or performed live, either as a soloist or in
employer. Examples of image content include
reputation for quality and reliability in
a group of musicians. It may involve working
wedding, family and baby photographs,
order to secure future assignments.
as a salaried member of a group or could
fashion, food, architecture, corporate
Further tasks include managing the
be in the form of freelance work for
photography, war zones and landscapes.
business aspects of the work, including
in a company. Their responsibilities typically
and basic accounting. As with most self-
include developing new design concepts,
employed people, many photographers
ensuring that projects are completed on
market themselves by, for example,
time and researching ideas for designs.
producing business cards, postcards
The role may also involve sourcing fabrics
and promotional materials, and creating
and other materials at trade fairs, markets and
and maintaining a website.
antique shops, attending trade shows, as a
Many graduates start out as a
delegate or as an exhibitor – this may involve
photographer’s assistant, spending a great
representing the company with a display or
deal of time on routine administration and
stand, or appraising the work of competitors
helping out around the studio.
and developing a network of business
CHAPTER 2 | jobs directory
administration, scheduling, invoicing
contacts. Other likely tasks include keeping up to date and spotting fashion trends in
Textile designer
fabric design by reading forecasts in trade
Textile designers create two-dimensional
magazines and using internet resources.
designs that can be used, often as a repeat
Self-employed textile designers also
design, in the production of knit, weave
undertake managing marketing and public
and printed fabrics or textile products.
relations, finances and day-to-day business
Working in both industrial and non-
activities as well as maintaining websites.
industrial locations, they often specialise, or work in a specialist context, within the textile industry. The two major fields are interiors (upholstery, soft furnishings and carpets) and fabrics for clothing (fashion or specialist, e.g. fire-proof). Textile designers may also work in associated industry functions, for example, designing wrapping paper, packaging, greetings cards and ceramics. Many textile designers are self-employed, while others work as part of a design team. Typical work activities These include liaising with clients and technical, marketing and buying staff to plan and develop designs, accurately interpreting and representing clients’ ideas and producing sketches, workedup designs and samples for presentation to customers. Typical activities also entail making up sets of sample designs, working out design formulae for a group of samples and assessing and approving completed Other aspects of the role also include using specialist software and CAD programmes to develop a range of designs, experimenting with colour, fabric and texture and maintaining up-to-date knowledge of new design and production techniques and work independently, if self-employed, or liaise closely with colleagues as part of a small team
112 / 113
textile technology. Textile designers either
Creative arts & culture
items and production standards.
Energy & utilities
Overview of the sector in the UK The energy and utilities sector continues to expand as fossil
What’s it like working in the sector?
fuels dwindle and awareness of the environment grows.
Graduates entering the energy and utilities sector can expect:
It consists of a range of industries that share some significant
• l ong working hours – employers place emphasis on ‘getting
similarities. These include: • oil and gas extraction;
the project done’ rather than maintaining standard hours; •h igh salaries, increasing for those who work offshore or
• oil and gas transmission and distribution;
overseas. Scientists and engineers in professions experiencing
• power generation and transmission;
demand in the oil and gas industry, such as geologists and
• water; • waste management.
corrosion engineers, may be offered significantly more; •o ffice, laboratory or site-based work, with site visits and field work being conducted outside in all weathers.
These industries are of global significance and include some of the world’s largest and best-resourced employers.
What are the key issues in the sector?
Some of them, most notably oil and gas extraction, have
Global demand for oil and gas is increasing, while supplies in
come through the recession more easily than other sectors
reserves that are currently exploited are decreasing. The industry
and have become increasingly important to graduates as a
has a challenge, vitally important to the modern industrial
result. Within these industries, there are many roles available
economy, of ensuring future oil and gas supplies.
to graduates, including:
The sector is in the strange position of simultaneously being
• strategy and planning;
considered partly responsible for climate change and being one
• financial management;
of the key players in moves to mitigate it and find alternative
• human resources management;
sources of energy to reduce it. Climate-change issues profoundly
• information technologies;
affect the way the industry approaches new development
• operational management;
and business.
• technical specialists, particularly in engineering;
As a result of the sector being associated with environmental
• marketing and PR.
damage, it can suffer from a poor public image. In addition, areas such as waste management are seen as unglamorous, while others
Many of the largest companies in this sector are multifaceted
are associated with difficult working environments.
global organisations. There are many organisations operating
Skills shortages are also an issue. The fast-moving nature
in renewable technologies, and a large number of small to
of parts of the industry, the geographic isolation of some sites,
medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). A number of companies
and the continuing growth of the sector means that specialist
with conventional power interests now have sizeable
engineers, chemists and geologists are often in demand.
green divisions. Many SMEs in the sector provide specialist
Those with project management, planning, and degree-level
services, particularly in consultancy, technical or engineering
science and engineering skills are also in demand.
roles. The UK has more than 20 water companies, while the
The sector faces a challenge to ensure staff are well trained
waste management and recycling market also offers many
and can adapt to new techniques and technology, as it funds
great opportunities.
research and development, and drives industrial change.
and undertaking engineering design and the
include devising policies and systems for
planning of wells (including development
buying energy and helping with contract
work). Moreover, the role entails designing
negotiations, providing technical and practical
Drilling engineer
directional well paths (horizontally or
advice on energy efficiency and contributing
A drilling engineer develops, plans, costs,
multi-laterally, as appropriate), managing
to sustainable development initiatives.
schedules and supervises the operations
operations on behalf of small clients and
The role also involves developing
necessary in the process of drilling oil and
contributing to conceptual field development
promotional activities and materials to
gas wells. They are involved from initial
design. Other activities include working with
publicise particular schemes, liaising and
well design to testing, completion and
multidisciplinary professionals to evaluate the
negotiating with contractors, the building
abandonment. Engineers work on land,
commercial viability of the well and monitor
supplies industry, council services and other
on offshore platforms or on mobile
progress during drilling and returning the site
relevant organisations and ensuring that
drilling units; they can be employed by
to its natural environmental setting if drilling
accurate records are maintained and energy
the operating oil company, a specialist
is not to be pursued.
monitoring data is collected regularly.
drilling contractor or a service company.
CHAPTER 2 | jobs directory
Graduate jobs
Other typical activities include
The role can involve administering drilling
preparing specifications, drawings and
and service contracts, engineering design, the
Energy manager
tender documents for building services,
planning of wells and supervising the drilling
Energy managers plan, regulate and
improvement or plant replacement work,
crew on-site. Drilling engineers work with
monitor energy use in an organisation
including obtaining statutory approvals,
other professionals, such as geologists and
or facility. They aim to improve energy
liaising with and providing technical support
geoscientists, to monitor drilling progress,
efficiency by evaluating energy use and
to mechanical and electrical design engineers
oversee safety management and ensure the
implementing new policies and changes
on new and refurbishment projects regarding
protection of the environment.
where necessary. They coordinate all
sustainability, energy and water conservation
aspects of energy management, from
and carrying out site inspections and energy
Typical work activities
energy efficiency and reduction of carbon
surveys. Additionally, energy managers’
Tasks may vary according to the employer but
dioxide emissions to waste management
responsibilities are likely to include preparing
will often include preparing well-data sheets,
and sustainable development by:
detailed schedules of work, feasibility studies
designing and selecting well-head equipment
• encouraging the use of renewable/
and cost estimates, benchmarking energy
and drawing up drilling programmes, taking
sustainable energy resources within
consumptions against best-practice guidelines
account of desired production flow rates.
an organisation or community;
and keeping abreast of legislation such as the
Other typical duties encompass obtaining
• deriving solutions for carbon management;
EU Emission Trading Scheme (EU ETS) and
relevant data, carrying out analysis on site
• raising the profile of energy conservation.
ensuring compliance.
and recommending immediate actions as necessary, carrying out full engineering
Changes in building regulations and an
analyses of rig-site data, preparing regular
increase in legislation and European directives
Engineering geologist
well reports, monitoring the daily progress
on emissions and efficiency have increased
Engineering geologists are concerned with the
of well operations and current daily costs,
the need for organisations to develop carbon
detailed technical analysis of earth material
comparing actual costs with cost expenditure
management and sustainability strategies.
and the risk assessment of geological hazards. Their role is to ensure that geological factors
proposals and recommending changes or
affecting engineering works are identified
could lead to optimisation of expenditure.
Duties vary according to the setting in which
and provided for.
Additionally, drilling engineers will
the work is being carried out and may range
They assess the integrity of soil, rock,
often undertake liaison with specialist
from researching new developments and
groundwater and other natural conditions
contractors and suppliers, such as cement
managing a range of strategies, to providing
prior to major construction projects.
companies or suppliers of drilling fluid,
expertise to individuals.
They also advise on procedures required
monitoring safety and ensuring the good
Tasks generally include developing,
for such developments and the suitability
maintenance of the well and adhering to
coordinating and implementing the aims
of appropriate construction materials.
environmental protection standards, in
and objectives of strategies and policies
Engineering geologists are also
some cases through direct discussion with
to reduce energy consumption, e.g. EU
involved with analysing sites and designs
local governments to ensure compliance
directives on energy performance and
for environmentally sensitive developments,
with legislative requirements. Further likely
emissions, and monitoring and reviewing
such as landfill sites. By monitoring
duties include establishing and administering
the effectiveness of these policies and
development areas and analysing ground
drilling and service contracts, coordinating
strategies, including coordinating annual
conditions, they ensure that structures
and supervising the work of the drilling team
progress reports. Additional responsibilities
can be secure in the short and long term.
114 / 115
Typical work activities
Energy & utilities
improvements to rig-work techniques, which
Typical work activities
sites, using geophysical techniques. The role
resources. They are also involved in the
Typical activities cover consulting geological
may also entail supporting an equipment pool
production of reserves and may provide
maps and aerial photographs to advise on
for UK seismologists within academia.
specialist advice for engineering projects.
site selection, assisting with the design of
Geoscientists work in a variety of
built structures, using specialised computer
Typical work activities
roles within the natural resources sector.
software or calculations and collating
Geophysicists work in the field, which
Terms such as geophysicist, geologist,
data and producing reports. Other likely
may be onshore or offshore, and typical
geochemist and sedimentologist are also
duties include overseeing the progress of
work activities include pre-planning
used for specialist roles within geoscience.
specific contracts, planning detailed field
projects before going on site, deciding
investigations by drilling and analysing
on suitable seismic measurement and
Typical work activities
samples of deposits/bedrock, supervising
data-processing techniques and taking
In the natural resources sector, geoscientists
site/ground investigations and budgets
equipment out to various locations around
are involved in the exploration and appraisal
and making visits to new project sites.
the world and deploying seismometers.
of new areas, feasibility studies and field
Additional responsibilities can
Additional activities typically involve
development planning of the discovered
entail advising on and testing a range
observing recording equipment’s detection
fields, as well as in optimising recovery from
of construction materials, for example
of irregularities and using computers for
the producing field.
sand, gravel, bricks and clay, making
data management, quality control and
Although geoscientists’ roles vary, tasks
recommendations on the proposed use
communication between the office and
typically include collecting information in the
of a site and providing information and
field locations, as well as designing, testing,
field, from seismic and well data and other
advising on problems such as subsidence.
modifying and repairing seismic equipment.
sources, monitoring the acquisition of data
Other typical activities are managing staff,
The role may also include interpreting
to ensure consistent quality, and interpreting
including other engineering geologists,
and reporting on collected data to the team,
data to determine subsurface geology
geotechnical engineers, consultants and
clients, senior managers or partners at
and the economic importance of natural
contractors, and attending professional
meetings and presentations, thinking quickly
resources, using sophisticated technical
conferences and representing the company
and independently to solve problems, often
software. Other typical work activities
or organisation at other events.
with limited resources in remote locations
consist of developing models of the earth’s
and working closely with a small team of
subsurface to understand the geological
scientists and other staff who may be away
structure, rock characteristics and the likely
Environmental consultant
in the field or offshore for several weeks at
distribution of oil/gas/mineral-bearing strata,
See Business, Consulting &
a time. Further typical duties entail adapting
interpreting the results in consultation
Management section.
data-collection procedures, compiling charts
with other earth-science professionals and
and reports and writing documentation
assessing the potential quality of mineral
and work logs. Geophysicists may also
and hydrocarbon resources.
Geophysicist/field seismologist
be involved in training and advising other
Geoscientists’ roles often include
A geophysicist/field seismologist studies
users (mainly academics and PhD students)
collaborating with drilling engineers to
physical aspects of the Earth and uses
and improving existing techniques in data
determine drilling locations on the basis of
complex equipment to collect data
acquisition and mathematical processing,
the interpretation of the data and models
on earthquakes and seismic waves,
as well as seeking to develop new techniques
developed, producing and presenting
which move through and around
and methods.
geological maps and reports and performing
the Earth. The geophysicist’s main
detailed geological risk analysis of proposed
responsibility is controlling data quality
exploration targets.
by monitoring displays and performing
Geoscientist
Additional responsibilities can involve
some initial interpretation.
A geoscientist is involved in the discovery,
planning and undertaking an exploration
Job descriptions vary according to
exploration and development of natural
drilling programme, after collecting and
the area of employment. The work may
resources such as gas, oil and water.
modelling all available data, planning the
include working within a research institute
They interpret geophysical, geochemical
location and trajectory of development
to investigate seismological structures and
and geological data to develop models
wells and putting well proposals together
provide seismological information to the
of the Earth’s subsurface with the aim
in conjunction with the multidisciplinary
public and government, undertaking seismic
of discovering commercially viable and
team and creating new opportunities to
exploration and producing controlled-
exploitable reserves of natural resources,
access remaining reserves. There may
source seismic data for an oil company or
such as oil and gas.
also be a requirement to implement new
consultancy and providing environmental
Geoscientists provide the foundation for
technologies in geological modelling and
consultancy, e.g. investigation of landfill
the exploration and production of natural
seismic processing, as well as advising
computers to model groundwater flow,
Mudloggers usually work in oil field
geological factors affecting exploration.
chemistry and temperature according to
drilling operations on rigs and are contracted
Geoscientists working in exploration
geological formations, surface water flow
to an oil company via a service company.
deal with a larger number of sites and a
and man-made influence.
They feed information and advice back to
wider spread of data and also use satellite
Other typical duties include undertaking
the drilling team for operational purposes,
imagery and gravity and magnetic surveys
field work and site visits for investigative
which are then reported back to the oil
to evaluate a whole basin. In production,
and monitoring purposes, designing and
company. Less commonly they work in
geoscientists concentrate on sites that are
commissioning boreholes, and sampling
water well and mineral exploration.
already operational, making assessments
and measuring groundwater and surface
Mudloggers are also known as logging
on the basis of well-core and well-fluid
water and undertaking environment impact
geologists, mudlogging geologists or
samples. As oil resources decline, the
assessments of groundwater abstraction
mudlogging technicians. Mudlogging is
role of the geoscientist will change from
and management activities.
also known as hydrocarbon well logging.
exploration-dominated to production-
Hydrogeologists may also be involved
dominated employment.
in analysing information to assess and/
Typical work activities
or predict the impact of activities such as
Tasks typically involve working in wellsite
landfills, construction developments, mining
units collecting, processing, logging and
Hydrogeologist
or agriculture on groundwater quality
analysing geological samples, using various
Hydrogeologists study the distribution,
and resource availability, as well as liaising
laboratory techniques to evaluate detailed
flow and quality of water underground
with other hydrogeologists, hydrologists,
and complex data for signs of oil or gas and
(as opposed to hydrologists who are
ecologists, engineers and other professionals
monitoring computer recordings of drillings.
primarily concerned with surface water).
in related fields.
The role also involves interpreting
This involves interpreting technical data
Additional responsibilities typically
information and feeding it back to the
and information from maps and historical
include ensuring compliance with
drilling team to enhance safety and
documents to build a conceptual model of
environmental legislation and keeping up
success, operating and maintaining a
groundwater flow and quality, designing
to date with technological and legislative
real-time computer-based data acquisition
and completing an investigation (which
developments, writing reports for clients
system, the advanced logging system (ALS),
may include environmental measurement
that can be understood by people of non-
which records all aspects of rig activity, and
and sampling, or an ongoing monitoring
technical backgrounds, answering
undertaking some on-site maintenance,
regime) in order to confirm or develop the
technical queries and providing advice
for which a knowledge of electrical and
model and using modelling techniques to
to clients and the public. Further duties
mechanical systems is useful.
enable predictions to be made about future
may entail managing projects and
Additional typical activities include taking
trends and impacts on groundwater flow
contractors and working within health-
on the primary health and safety role for the
and quality.
and-safety guidelines.
well through constant monitoring of all critical
The work of a hydrogeologist
Hydrogeologists working for charities
drilling parameters, predicting dangerous
ultimately leads to better management
and non-governmental organisations
situations, such as over-pressured formations
of natural resources or better protection
(NGOs) overseas may be involved in finding
and assisting the wellsite geologist during
of the groundwater.
new water supplies for remote villages
coring operations.
or refugee camps, siting new wells and
Further likely duties consist of reporting
Typical work activities
testing water quality, alongside protecting
to the wellsite geologist and the oil company
The work of a hydrogeologist can vary
water supplies from pollution and carrying
in writing and frequently acting as a drilling
considerably according to the sector,
out decontamination.
engineer, collating and then logging details
employer and area of specialism, but
CHAPTER 2 | jobs directory
engineers and senior management on
of drilling operations in oil companies’
general work activities may include
computer systems.
geology to develop an understanding
Mudloggers collect and monitor information
of how the rock types and structure
from drilling operations. This includes drilling
Petroleum engineer
in an area impact on groundwater
data, gas and samples. They use a range
A petroleum engineer is involved in nearly
occurrence and movement, understanding
of equipment and laboratory techniques,
all stages of oil and gas field evaluation,
and interpreting maps, geographical data,
such as binocular microscopes, ultraviolet
development and production. The aim is to
historical evidence and models to build
fluorescence and thin-section analysis to
maximise hydrocarbon recovery at minimum
up a picture of the groundwater regime
monitor drilling parameters such as speed
cost while maintaining a strong emphasis on
and/or land contamination, often based
of rotation, rate of penetration, pump rate,
reducing environmental impact. Petroleum
on incomplete information and using
pit levels, cutting rate and mudflow rate.
engineers are divided into several groups.
116 / 117
Mudlogger Energy & utilities
applying a knowledge of fundamental
Petroleum geologists find hydrocarbons
the value of the reservoir and decide on
ensuring compliance with current legislation
by analysing subsurface structures with
appropriate engineering interventions.
in the transport, handling and disposal of
geological and geophysical methods.
Petroleum engineers may also be
waste, formulating and controlling the budget
Reservoir engineers work to optimise
involved in understanding and managing how
for waste disposal and collating statistics and
the production of oil and gas via proper well
a set of wells interact, managing contractor
compiling reports, often to strict deadlines.
placement, production levels and enhanced
relationships in relation to health, safety and
Waste management officers typically
oil-recovery techniques. They use computer
environmental performance and supervising
also monitor the quality and performance
simulations to assist in the identification of risks
wellsite operations personnel and managing
of waste services, including contract
and to make forecasts on reservoir potential.
staff at all levels, including the training and
management of external providers, as
Production engineers manage the
supervision of crew members, to ensure
well as aiming to meet waste reduction
interface between the reservoir and the
that everyone works as a team in order
and recycling targets. Other tasks include
well through such tasks as (but not limited
to meet deadlines to clients’ satisfaction.
assisting with the development of information
to) perforations, sand control, artificial
Other typical duties include liaising
and promotional materials, dealing with
lift, downhole flow control and downhole
with separate departments to ensure correct
enquiries and complaints from members of
monitoring equipment. They also select
progress with projects, taking responsibility
the public and investigating and following
surface equipment that separates the
for the maintenance of equipment and
up claims of the illegal dumping of waste,
produced fluids (oil, natural gas and water).
informing clients on progress.
in addition to working with other waste
Drilling engineers manage the technical
regulation enforcement staff.
aspects of drilling both production and
The role also involves consulting with
injection wells. They work in multidisciplinary
Waste management officer
residents, community groups, councillors,
teams alongside other engineers, scientists,
Waste management officers organise
housing associations and traders’
drilling teams and contractors.
and manage waste disposal, collection
associations about waste management
and recycling facilities. They may also be
issues, identifying their requirements
Typical work activities
responsible for waste treatment and street
and providing appropriate solutions as
The actual tasks carried out will vary
cleaning operations. Some posts combine
well as developing research projects and
depending on the specific role but may
waste management and recycling functions,
contributing to the activities of national
include liaising with geoscientists, production
while others split them into separate jobs.
groups concerned with waste disposal.
and reservoir engineers, and commercial
The UK generates about 290 million
At senior levels, responsibility for
managers to interpret well-logging results
tonnes of waste a year. It is the responsibility
multimillion-pound budgets is common.
and predict production potential, compiling
of the waste management industry to dispose
detailed development plans of reservoir
of waste safely, with due consideration for
performance using mathematical models
the environment and whilst conforming to
Water quality scientist
to ensure maximum economic recovery
government regulations. Waste management
A water quality scientist is responsible for
and selecting optimal tubing size and
officers have to meet targets for waste
safeguarding all aspects of water quality
suitable equipment within the well for
reduction and recycling, in particular the
through scientific analysis and the setting
different functions.
EU Landfill Directive which aims to reduce
of targets and standards in response to
Other possible responsibilities encompass
landfill waste.
specific legislation. They compare test results with these standards, investigate
designing the completion – the part of the well that communicates with the reservoir
Typical work activities
shortfalls and take action to remedy
rock and fluids, designing systems that help
Waste management officers work mainly
problems. Depending on the employer,
the well to flow, for example using submersible
for local authorities but can also be
they may also be involved in providing
pumps and managing problems of fluid
employed by private waste businesses,
solutions to water-quality problems and
behaviour and production chemistry.
industrial organisations, environmental
water-quality regulation.
The role may also involve evaluating
agencies, consultancies and non-profit-
They usually specialise in one of
and recommending flow-rate enhancement
making conservation projects.
three areas: drinking water, surface water
by using, for example, hydraulic fracturing
Tasks often include overseeing waste
(rivers, lakes, estuaries) and groundwater.
(to force fluid into a well and fracture the
management schemes, such as at landfill
More senior roles may involve significant
rock) and acid treatment (to erode the
sites, supervising the transport of waste to
liaison with businesses, the public and
rock and improve flow path), managing
ensure that it takes place efficiently without
other water industry professionals.
and controlling wells with branches at the
contaminating air, land or water sources and
bottom (horizontal and multilateral wells)
assisting with the development, promotion
Typical work activities
and using well and reservoir remote sensing
and implementation of new waste disposal
Tasks differ according to the specialist
technology and surveillance data to manage
schemes. Further likely duties encompass
area, particularly with regard to the degree
strata from core samples and rock-cutting
regulatory authorities, but all roles are likely
data and build up knowledge of the structure
to involve taking water samples (although
being drilled.
routine sampling may be carried out by
They are experienced geologists,
technicians), carrying out laboratory testing
deciding when specialised tests should
of samples for chemical or microbiological
be carried out and, ultimately, when to
parameters and, in the case of drinking
stop drilling. They send reports and logs
water, assessment of the quality of taste
of completed drilling to the operations
and clarity and analysing statistical data
geologist and offer geological advice to oil
on water quality samples.
company representatives. They incorporate
Other areas of responsibility can include
health and safety requirements in daily
visiting sites of concern, for example, potential
geological operations. Wellsite geologists
sources of pollution or contamination,
also liaise with drilling engineers, petroleum
and sources of complaints about drinking
engineers and mudloggers during the course
water quality; liaising with customers and
of projects.
CHAPTER 2 | jobs directory
of contact with the public, businesses and
representatives from regulatory authorities Typical work activities
water quality; and suggesting changes or
The work is based entirely on a rig and usually
solutions to these problems.
involves evaluating offset data before the
Water quality scientists may also
start of drilling, analysing, evaluating and
provide advice on avoiding problems, for
describing formations while drilling, using
example, to businesses discharging effluent,
cuttings, gas, FEMWD (formation evaluation
negotiate charges for effluent discharges
measurement while drilling) and wireline data,
and contribute to projects concerning water
and comparing data gathered during drilling
quality improvement.
with predictions made at the exploration
The role may also involve checking
stage. Other typical duties include advising on
customers’ premises and the construction
drilling hazards and drilling-bit optimisation,
of drains, investigating pollution incidents
taking full responsibility for making decisions
from a scientific and legal viewpoint
about suspending or continuing drilling and
and arranging for emergency action in
advising operations personnel located on site
response to incidents. Additional typical
and in the operations office.
tasks entail conducting research related
The wellsite geologist acts, in effect, as
to water quality and setting up field
the representative of the onshore oil company
surveys, as well as sharing information
geology team. Additional responsibilities
with water quality professionals from
include supervising mudlogging, FEMWD and
a range of other agencies.
wireline services personnel and monitoring
Work activities may vary according to
quality control in relation to these services,
the current issues of concern. An ongoing
as well as keeping detailed records, writing
and serious problem with water quality,
reports, completing daily, weekly and post-
for instance, may cause other activities
well reporting logs and sending these to
to be suspended or minimised until it has
appropriate departments. Other likely duties
been dealt with. Water quality scientists
consist of maintaining up-to-date knowledge
who work in the field may perform a lot of
of MWD (measuring while drilling) tools as
routine sampling. However, they also have
geosteering becomes increasingly important,
to respond to emergencies when pollution-
and communicating regularly with onshore
causing incidents occur.
operations offices.
Wellsite geologist Wellsite geologists study rock cuttings from formations are being drilled into and how drilling should proceed. They identify critical
118 / 119
oil and gas wells to determine what rock
Energy & utilities
who are investigating reasons for lapses in
Engineering & manufacturing
Overview of the sector in the UK The UK employs more than eight million people in the engineering and manufacturing industries, making it the world’s seventh-largest manufacturing nation. While areas of engineering include transport and logistics, energy and
everyday items. The industry employs 440,000 workers, some offshore and others in technical positions or in commercial areas; •P harmaceutical – is one of the largest sectors for investment in research and development. In the UK it employs 67,000 people.
utilities, and construction, most job opportunities occur in the following areas:
What’s it like working in the sector?
• Aerospace – employs more than 96,000 people in
Graduates entering the engineering and manufacturing sector
more than 3,000 companies that supply civil and
can expect:
military air transport;
• t o work in different environments depending on the sector.
• Automotive – has a 730,000-strong UK workforce and thousands more apprentices. In 2011, the UK automotive industry employed 11 per cent of new recruits from universities and higher education institutions; • Biotechnology – science is at the root of the sector,
Many companies are industrial and have a factory environment, while you may also work in an office or even on an oil rig; • to earn an average of £24,615 a year working as an engineering professional, six months after graduating. According to the Association of Graduate Recruiters survey, predicted salaries
with biotechnology harnessing cellular and biomolecular
for 2011/12 graduates are £26,750 for manufacturing engineers,
processes to develop technology and products;
£25,500 for electrical engineers; £25,000 for mechanical
• Chemical – the industry is made up of 3,300 companies employing 200,000 people. The three main areas of activity are commodity, speciality and consumer chemicals; • Electrical and electronics – more than 11,000 companies employ over 250,000 people;
engineers, and £24,500 for civil engineers; • to work differing hours depending on your role: a nuclear engineer works 35-40 hours a week on a shift basis, occasionally being called out for emergencies, while office hours will be 9am to 5pm. Some roles require employees to spend time abroad.
• Food and drink – is the largest industry in the UK manufacturing sector, employing up to 400,000 workers; • Metals, minerals and materials – this sector supports globalscale technological advances. The UK has been at the
What are the key issues in the sector? It is thought that once the UK moves out of recession the engineering and manufacturing sectors will pick up.
forefront of the metals processing industry for centuries; • Marine – the industry contains over 5,000 companies
• Engineering – There are signs of an upturn in fortunes in
employing 90,000 workers in the UK. It manufactures
the sector after a tough few years since the recession first
for and supplies a range of small sectors;
hit. In 2010/11, more UK first-degree graduates found
• Nuclear – not only does the UK nuclear industry supply 18 per cent of the nation’s electricity, but it also exports to international markets. The industry directly employs 24,000 people and indirectly employs 20,000 more; • Oil and gas – supplies the UK with power to heat homes, fuel for transport and raw materials to produce other
jobs as engineers six months after graduating compared to 2009/10. •M anufacturing – The manufacturing sector has struggled in recent years, with some international companies pulling out of the UK to save money. However, some organisations, such as JLR, have found opportunities to take on more employees.
supervising technicians, technologists and
conferences. Typical activities may also include
other engineers, and reviewing and approving
close liaison with other medical professionals,
designs, calculations and cost estimates.
such as doctors and therapists as well as
Automotive engineer
Other possible duties include liaising with
with end-users (patients and their carers),
Automotive engineers are involved in the
suppliers and handling supply-chain
as well as discussing and solving problems
design, manufacture and operation of
management issues, taking responsibility
with manufacturing, quality, purchasing and
ground-based vehicles, such as motorcycles,
for individual projects, managing associated
marketing departments.
automobiles, buses and trucks and their
budgets, production schedules and resources
The role may also encompass assessing
respective engineering subsystems. They are
(including staff), and supervising quality
the potential wider market for products
involved in the whole product-design life cycle
control. The role may also involve inspecting
or modifications suggested by health
from the initial concept through to delivery,
and even test-driving vehicles and checking
professionals or others, meeting with senior
but generally work in the three main areas
for faults.
health service staff or other managers to
of design, research and development,
CHAPTER 2 | jobs directory
Graduate jobs
exchange findings and dealing with technical
and production.
queries from hospitals and GPs and giving
Automotive engineers need to have a
Biomedical engineer
advice on new equipment, in addition to
combination of engineering and commercial
Biomedical engineers apply engineering
arranging clinical trials of medical products.
skills in order to deliver projects within
principles and materials technology to
Other typical activities could involve
budget. Once established, they usually
healthcare. This can include researching,
approaching marketing and other industry
specialise in a particular area, for example
designing and developing medical products,
companies to sell medical products.
structural design, exhaust systems or engines.
such as joint replacements or robotic
Biomedical engineers are expected to keep
surgical instruments, designing or modifying
up to date with new developments in the
Typical work activities
equipment for clients with special needs in
field both nationally and internationally
Automotive engineers usually specialise in
a rehabilitation setting, or managing the
and also often write reports and attend
a particular area of work. However, typical
use of clinical equipment in hospitals and
conferences to present their work and
work activities may include designing
the community.
latest designs. Additional duties are likely
and producing visual interpretations of
Biomedical engineers are employed
to include testing and maintaining clinical
automobiles and their components using
by health services, medical equipment
equipment, training technical or clinical staff
computer-aided design (CAD) packages, as
manufacturers and research departments/
and investigating safety-related incidents.
well as deciding on the most appropriate
institutes. Job titles vary depending on
materials for component production.
the exact nature of the work. As well as
In addition, other duties may consist of
biomedical engineer, other terms that are
Chemical engineer
applying mechanical, thermodynamic,
used are bioengineer, design engineer and
A chemical engineer is involved in the
pneumatic, hydraulic and electrical
clinical scientist (in a hospital/clinical setting).
design, development, construction and operation of industrial processes for the
principles to resolve engineering problems
production of a diverse range of products,
Additionally, automotive engineers often
The type of activities carried out varies
as well as in commodity and speciality
work on building prototypes of components,
depending on the type of employer and
chemicals. Relevant industries include
developing test procedures and conducting
seniority of the post held. Tasks may involve
oil and gas, pharmaceuticals, energy,
tests using software packages and physical
using computer software and mathematical
water treatment, food and drink,
testing methods, along with researching,
models to design, develop and test new
plastics and toiletries. Modern chemical
designing and developing machinery and
materials, devices and equipment. This can
engineering is also concerned with
systems for automobiles.
involve programming electronics, building
pioneering valuable new materials and
Other typical responsibilities include
and evaluating prototypes, troubleshooting
techniques, such as nanotechnology,
repairing material, cost and timing
problems, and rethinking the design until it
fuel cells and biomedical engineering.
estimates, reports and design specifications,
works correctly.
The role may focus on one or more
studying the energy, environmental and
Other likely responsibilities include
of the following: researching new products
safety aspects of the planned work and
liaising with technicians and manufacturers
from trial through to commercialisation;
supervising and inspecting the installation,
to ensure the feasibility of a product in
managing scale-up processes from plant
modification and commissioning of
terms of design and economic viability
to full industrial-scale manufacturing;
mechanical systems in industrial facilities or
plus conducting research to solve clinical
improving product lines; modifying
plants. Automotive engineers may also be
problems using a variety of means to
the processing plant that produces the
involved in investigating mechanical failures
collate the necessary information, including
products; and designing and commissioning
or unexpected maintenance problems,
questionnaires, interviews and group
new plants.
120 / 121
Typical work activities
Engineering & manufacturing
and find appropriate solutions.
Typical work activities
contractor uses their professional expertise
the major branches of electrical engineering.
Typical activities are extremely diverse,
to organise human and material resources
It is a discipline that uses scientific knowledge
depending on the role and the sector in
on site, and ensure the project runs to time
of the behaviour and effects of electrons
which you work, but may include working
and budget and is safe to work on.
to create components, devices, systems or
closely with process chemists and control
Occasionally, contractors will put
equipment that use electricity as part of their
engineers to ensure the process plant is set
together a design and build a team
source of power. These components include
up to provide maximum output levels and
themselves. This blurs some of the
capacitors, diodes, resistors and transistors.
efficient running of the production facility.
boundaries between the services they
Electronics engineers research, design,
Further duties could include designing plant
offer and those that are traditionally
develop and test precision components and
and equipment configuration so that they
provided by consultants.
systems, developing the way electricity is used
can be readily adapted to suit the product
to control equipment. The work is usually
range and the process technologies involved,
Typical work activities
carried out in cross-functional project teams,
taking environmental and economic aspects
The work involves turning the designer’s
with colleagues in electronics and other
into account, as well as optimising production
plans into reality by actually building
branches of engineering.
by analysing processes and compiling
them. Contracting engineers ensure that
Electronics touches on nearly all areas of
de-bottleneck studies.
all aspects of the construction project
human activity, so its applications are diverse.
Other typical responsibilities involve
under their responsibility – from ground
They include acoustics, defence, medical
instituting scale-up and scale-down
works and foundations to final finishes –
instruments, mobile phones, nanotechnology,
processes including appropriate changes to
are completed within cost and time
radio and satellite communication and
equipment design and configuration and
constraints and to client specification.
robotics. Subfields of electronic engineering
assessing options for plant expansion or
Tasks are likely to consist of liaising
include control engineering, instrumentation,
reconfiguration by developing and testing
and working jointly with the design team
signal processing and telecommunications.
process-simulation models, in addition to
(consulting engineers) to implement
installing and commissioning new production
refinements and negotiating modifications
Typical work activities
plants, including monitoring developments
with architects and consulting engineers.
Electronics engineers work on a project
and troubleshooting. The role also typically
Other typical activities include dealing
through all its stages: from the initial brief
encompasses applying new technologies and
skilfully with a diverse range of people
for a concept; through the design and
ensuring that potential safety issues related
including clients, architects, other engineering
development stage; to the testing of one
to the project operator, the environment,
professionals, sub-contractors and members
or more prototypes; and through to the
the process and the product are considered
of the public, as well as liaising with and
final manufacture and implementation
at all stages.
directing the work of sub-contractors
of a new product or system. Exact duties
Examples of work activities in specific
employed on the project.
vary, depending on the industry, but tasks
sectors include undertaking small and
Contracting civil engineers also often
typically include discussing proposals
intermediate-scale manufacturing and
take responsibility for health and safety on
with clients, working with colleagues to
packaging activities in pharmaceutical product
site, schedule work and provide appropriate
design new systems, circuits and devices
development for clinical trial purposes, as
plans for construction. Other typical duties
or develop existing technology and testing
well as developing new methods of safe
include supervising construction along
theoretical designs. The role also includes
nuclear energy production, including projects
with ensuring quality of workmanship and
writing specifications, following defined
such as conceptual design, simulation
making judgements and solving problems.
development processes and systematically
and construction of test rigs, and detailed
The role may also encompass dealing with
improving the detailed design of a piece
design and operations support.
the logistics of supplies and monitoring the
of electronic equipment.
provision of materials.
Other likely activities involve ensuring
However, turning designers’ plans into
that a product will work with devices
Contracting civil engineer
reality is never simple and other activities
developed by others, can be made again
Contracting civil engineers turn the plans
are likely to include finding solutions to
reliably, and will perform consistently in
of consulting civil engineers (designers)
unforeseen construction problems and
specified operating environments, as well
into reality. They oversee the construction
scheduling and adjusting each project
as creating user-friendly interfaces.
on the ground and work with consulting
stage to meet time and budget targets.
Electronics engineers are also responsible
engineers. All civil engineers need a good
for ensuring safety regulations are met and
understanding of design and construction
keeping up to date with developments in
processes as well as of health and safety
Electronics engineer
technologies and regulations. Additional
issues. Once plans have been drawn up
Electronics is the technology associated with
duties typically involve project planning and
and approved by the client, an engineering
electronic circuits and systems, and is one of
preparing budgets plus attending meetings
Energy engineers may also liaise and
products with a consistent flavour, colour
duties include supervising technicians,
negotiate with fuel providers, specialist
and texture in large quantities. This must
craftspeople and other colleagues and
contractors, geologists and other relevant
be done within a strict and ever-changing
writing technical reports.
organisations, as well as working with
regulatory framework around the treatment
There are two main types of graduate
fuel providers, arranging new supplies and
of foodstuffs. For this reason, technologists
electronics engineer. Chartered engineers
negotiating tariffs. The role may include
are responsible for keeping up to date with
(CEng) have the greatest level of responsibility
developing and implementing strategies
relevant legislation.
for engineering projects. They develop
relating to renewable energy and corporate
The work may also involve building
solutions to problems that have arisen using
sustainable development plus carrying out
relationships with suppliers and customers,
new or existing technologies. Incorporated
site inspections and energy surveys.
as well as ensuring products are profitable.
engineers (IEng) take responsibility for specific
Typically, energy engineers may
aspects of a project. Their role includes
be involved in designing and selecting
Typical work activities
maintaining and managing applications of
equipment, using mathematical and
Activities vary depending on the type of
current and developing technology.
computer models to carry out design and
employer, area of work, e.g. manufacturing,
specification calculations and carrying out
retail or public sector, and area of
lab experiments and adapting them to large-
specialism. However, tasks may include
Energy engineer
scale industrial processes. Other likely tasks
modifying existing products and processes
An energy engineer is involved with the
include contributing to sustainable energy
and developing new ones, checking and
production of energy through natural
initiatives, researching new energy methods
improving quality control procedures in
resources, such as the extraction of oil and
checking site and ground conditions for the
your own and suppliers’ factories, from the
gas, as well as from renewable or sustainable
installation of renewable technologies, such
raw material stage through to the finished
sources of energy, including biofuels, hydro,
as wind turbines, and leading on corporate
product, and researching current consumer
wind and solar power.
social responsibility issues.
markets and latest technologies to develop
Energy engineers are focused on finding
CHAPTER 2 | jobs directory
with subcontractors. Further likely
new product concepts.
efficient, clean and innovative ways to
Additional typical duties include
selecting raw materials and other ingredients
including designing and testing machinery,
Food technologists ensure food products
from suppliers, preparing product costings
developing ways of improving existing
are produced safely and legally, and are of
based on raw material and manufacturing
processes, and converting, transmitting
the quality claimed. The role is varied and
costs to ensure profitability and addressing
and supplying useful energy to meet our
dependent on what area of the industry
issues of safety and quality.
needs for electricity. They research and
you enter. For example, manufacturing
Food technologists may also be
develop ways to: generate new energy;
technologists have a more practical role and
involved in auditing suppliers or managing
make more efficient use of energy by
work on day-to-day issues as well as long-
internal audits, helping prepare and/or
reducing emissions from fossil fuels;
term projects directly with the production and
leading external site audits and reviewing
and minimise environmental damage.
factory teams. Retail technologists, however,
end-to-end supply chains. Other possible
deal with many manufacturers and work with
activities include coordinating launches of
Typical work activities
their manufacturers’ technical teams to solve
new products or running trials alongside/
Energy engineers can have an extremely
issues and on projects.
together with product development, dealing
varied workload, depending on the
Food technologists can get involved
with any customer complaint investigations
sector they work in or type of project
in developing the manufacturing processes
or product issues and implementing and
they are involved with. Typical activities
and recipes of food and drink products.
managing the site quality-management
include ensuring resource extraction meets
They may work on existing and newly
system. There may also be a requirement
environmental standards, developing technical
discovered ingredients and technologies to
to compile, check and approve product
expertise in all matters to do with energy and
invent new recipes and concepts, as well
specifications and labelling, as well as the.
environmental control, and being involved
as modify foods to create, for example, fat-
undertaking of long-term projects with
in the design, development and building
free products and ready meals. They often
other departments, e.g. reducing waste
of renewable energy technologies. Other
work closely with the product development
by improving efficiency.
typical responsibilities include managing the
teams to help deliver factory-ready recipes
In food manufacturing, the work may
integration of renewable energy generation
based on the development kitchen samples.
also involve carrying out process support and
into existing power systems, keeping abreast
Some food technologists are involved
development, new product development and
of legislation and ensuring compliance and
in conducting experiments and producing
quality control and developing the ability to
negotiating service agreements and managing
sample products, as well as designing
repeat processes to ensure consistency and
associated costs and revenues.
the processes and machinery for making
safety. There is also likely to be a requirement
122 / 123
Food technologist
Engineering & manufacturing
supply energy. They work in a variety of roles
to liaise and cooperate with technical and
assessments, conduct research and prepare
effective communication in order to avoid
commercial colleagues in procurement,
and present reports.
errors. Other typical duties include examining
sales and technical services, and marketing
The role may also entail teaching and
and tendering for new equipment to ensure
and distribution, and also with official food
lecturing in further and higher education,
the highest quality at the best price and
inspection and hygiene agencies (this takes
offering consultancy services and providing
organising plant start-up and shut-down
up a considerable proportion of time on
technical support to dealers and customers.
schedules to ensure minimum loss of
the manufacturing side.
Another possible requirement is providing
production time and profits.
Other typical duties include working with
emergency aid, e.g. helping to restore
Manufacturing engineers typically
engineering/production to develop solutions
electricity and water supplies and reconstruct
liaise with the research and development
to production issues whilst maintaining food
buildings following wars or natural disasters.
department to ensure the company is at the
safety and conducting internal audits of
forefront of research and keep up to date
factory systems.
with trends in the manufacturing industry.
In retailing, typical work activities include
Manufacturing engineer
The role also requires attending training
working with suppliers on quality issues and
Manufacturing engineers have a high level of
courses and conferences. Engineers should
new product ideas and managing the safety,
technical expertise and skill, which they use
take part in continuous professional
legality and quality of food that is produced.
to plan, design, set up, modify, optimise and
development (CPD) programmes affiliated
In the public sector, the work can involve
monitor manufacturing processes. Since the
to their professional body.
carrying out administration and devising
basic principles of manufacturing engineering
policy for government departments, as well
apply to all industries, they can work in
as implementing enforcement roles in local
numerous sectors including food and drink,
authority environmental health departments.
oil, plastics and pharmaceuticals.
Manufacturing systems engineer
They work to produce high-quality
Manufacturing systems engineers work
goods efficiently using the most cost-
as part of a team to design, install,
Land-based engineer
effective methods and with the aim of
monitor and develop all systems affecting
Land-based engineers apply their
reducing the impact of production on the
the manufacturing cycle of a product,
knowledge of science and technology
environment. Manufacturing engineers are
for example manufacturing equipment
to engineering work with machinery
designers, as well as analytical and creative
and assembly lines. They may also be
in a wide range of environmental and
thinkers. They can operate on their own
involved in the design and building of
agricultural industries. Businesses in
initiative but also contribute as a team
new manufacturing plants.
land-based engineering commonly use
member working with engineers from
Manufacturing systems engineers
machinery for agricultural, ground care,
various disciplines.
work to integrate the entire manufacturing
construction and forestry purposes.
Manufacturing engineers also work with
process. This ranges from production and
As well as solving engineering problems
other professionals, in areas such as finance
supply right through to sales. The aim is to
engineers will also contribute to the
and health and safety. Responsibilities may
allow the maximum volume of high-quality
development of increasingly efficient vehicles
also include: maintaining records; purchasing;
product to be produced at the lowest cost
and equipment. A high level of technical
and managing staff and budgets.
and in the shortest time. They use the
skill is sought in the land-based engineering
latest computer technology and employ a
industry, but business and management skills
Typical work activities
systematic approach to finance, methods,
are also vitally important to the successful
These may include designing new systems
materials and technology across traditional
development of businesses in the sector.
and processes for the introduction of new
departmental boundaries.
products or for the improvement of existing Typical work activities
ones and working with other engineers,
Typical work activities
A land-based engineer may be involved
such as chemical engineers, mechanical
Manufacturing systems engineers are
in tasks such as designing, testing and
engineers,electrical engineers, to ensure
responsible for seeing a job through all
developing agricultural, construction and
all product and system requirements are
of its stages, rather than focusing on one
other off-road vehicles and specialist
taken into account from the initial product
particular part of the process. Tasks vary
equipment including ploughs, cultivators
conception to the finished result.
but typically include designing the layout
and sprayers. Other typical tasks involve
The role also encompasses working
of the plant using computer-aided design/
planning and supervising the construction
with other professionals, such as accountants
manufacturing (CAD/CAM) software to
of farm buildings and associated structures,
and human resources personnel, to manage
build 3D models. Other elements of the role
water conservation, irrigation and drainage
budgets and the recruitment of junior
involve designing, developing and installing
systems. Additionally, land-based engineers
engineers, as well as supervising junior
plant-control systems, liaising with designers,
often undertake environmental impact
engineers and sub-contractors and ensuring
researchers and engineering consultants,
thought to be one of the most diverse of all
Quality manager
forecasting production requirements.
engineering disciplines, with employment
Quality managers aim to ensure that the
Additional work activities can include
opportunities available in a wide range
product or service an organisation provides
calculating production costs based on
of sectors, such as the manufacturing,
is fit for purpose, is consistent and meets
equipment, time and labour, deciding on
power, construction and medical industries.
both external and internal requirements.
the effective use of resources and producing
Mechanical engineers can also be involved
This includes legal compliance and customer
maintenance schedules. The role may also
in the management of people and resources,
expectations. A quality manager, sometimes
involve testing that systems are working
as well as the development and use of new
called a quality assurance manager,
correctly and identifying, investigating and
materials and technologies.
coordinates the activities required to
CHAPTER 2 | jobs directory
attending production meetings and
meet quality standards.
repairing any system faults, along with
Quality managers also monitor and
with plant managers and non-technical
Mechanical engineers work on a project
advise on the performance of the quality
personnel. Typical duties can also include
from the initial brief, through the design
management system, produce data
supervising the work of manufacturing
and development stage, to the testing
and report on performance, measuring
engineers, trainee engineers and support
of one or more prototypes, right through
against set standards. They liaise with
staff, overseeing the installation, repair and
to final manufacture and implementation.
other managers and staff throughout the
re-assembly of equipment and demonstrating
Projects can vary significantly, from
organisation to ensure that the system is
new and existing equipment to systems
researching and developing medical products
functioning properly. Where appropriate,
engineers, support staff and production
(such as mechanical hearts) to improving
the quality manager advises on changes and
managers. Other likely responsibilities are
production processes in large oil refineries
their implementation and provides training,
investigating environmental hazards as well
or designing services within buildings.
tools and techniques to enable others to
as conducting safety tests and removing
Tasks will generally include designing
achieve quality.
potential hazards and reviewing results and
and implementing cost-effective equipment
meeting with managers to discuss methods
modifications to help improve safety, reliability
Typical work activities
of improving the productivity of existing
and throughput, and developing a project
Quality managers need to be adaptable in
systems, taking into consideration the use
specification with colleagues, often including
order to meet customer expectations and
of the latest technology.
those from other engineering disciplines.
to ensure legal compliance. They employ
Manufacturing systems engineers
There is also likely to be a requirement
a variety of measures and management
may also undertake the sourcing of new
to develop, test and evaluate theoretical
systems, including ISO 9000, the total
suppliers of industrial equipment, the
designs, as well as the discussion and solution
quality management (TQM) standard and
testing, monitoring and evaluation of new
of complex problems with manufacturing
the continuous improvement process.
mechanical equipment and the establishment
departments, sub-contractors, suppliers
The work of the quality manager will
of a quality culture within the manufacturing
and customers.
be affected by the nature of the employing
environment. There is also likely to be a
Typical work activities also include
organisation but is likely to include devising
requirement to read specialist journals
making sure a product can be made again
and establishing its quality procedures,
and attend training courses and industry
reliably and will perform consistently in
standards and specifications; reviewing
meetings in order to keep up to date with
specified operating environments, managing
customer requirements and ensuring that
the latest technological developments and
projects using engineering principles and
they are met; and working with purchasing
trends in engineering.
techniques and planning and designing
staff to establish quality requirements from
new production processes.
external suppliers. Further typical duties
The role also entails producing details
consist of setting standards for quality as
Mechanical engineer
of specifications and outline designs,
well as health and safety, making sure that
Mechanical engineers use engineering
recommending modifications following
manufacturing or production processes meet
principles to provide efficient solutions to
prototype test results and using research,
international and national standards, and
the development of processes and products,
analytical, conceptual and planning skills,
defining quality procedures in conjunction
ranging from small component designs to
particularly mathematical modelling and
with operating staff.
extremely large plant, machinery or vehicles.
computer-aided design. Additional likely
Quality managers are also likely to be
They can work on all stages of a product,
responsibilities include considering the
responsible for setting up and maintaining
from research and development to design
implications of issues such as cost, safety
controls and documentation procedures;
and manufacture, through to installation
and time constraints, working with other
monitoring performance by gathering
and final commissioning.
professionals, within and outside the
relevant data and producing statistical
Most industries rely on mechanical
engineering specialism and monitoring
reports; and preparing clear explanatory
systems, and mechanical engineering is
and commissioning plant and systems.
documents such as customers’ charters.
124 / 125
Typical work activities
Engineering & manufacturing
discussing and evaluating systems failures
Structural engineer
Additionally, structural engineers
a production team, monitoring technical
Structural engineers design structures to
may be responsible for making drawings,
advances and planning budgets.
withstand stresses and pressures, such
specifications and computer models of
Further typical duties include
as weather and human use. They ensure
structures for building contractors, applying
warehousing and stock control, liaising
buildings and other structures do not bend,
expert knowledge of the forces that act on
with other sections of the company
twist, collapse or vibrate and remain strong
various structures and investigating ground
and problem-solving in situations where
and secure throughout their use.
conditions and analysing results of site tests,
decisions may need to be made very
Structural engineers help to design
such as soil samples. There is also often a
quickly in order to maintain the quality
most structures including houses, theatres,
requirement to use computers and CAD
of the product.
sports venues, hospitals, office blocks,
technology for simulation purposes.
bridges, oil rigs, space satellites, ships and aircraft. They work in close partnership with architects and have to choose appropriate
Technical brewer
materials, such as bricks, concrete, wood
Technical brewers are responsible for
and metal, to meet design specifications.
managing the process of brewing and
When construction has begun, they are
packaging beer. The role involves taking
often involved in inspecting the work and
responsibility for raw materials, operatives
advising contractors. They also examine
and technicians, maintaining the safe
existing buildings and other structures to
and effective running of the plant and
test if they are structurally sound and still
machinery and ensuring a consistently
fit for purpose.
high-quality product is produced.
Structural engineers have to make
A technical brewer may specialise
efficient use of funds and materials in
in just one area of production, which is
order to achieve structural goals.
particularly likely in the large breweries, while they may be responsible for all
Typical work activities
aspects of the process in small breweries.
Tasks may vary depending on the structure
Technical brewing remains a hands-on
being worked on and size of the team.
occupation, despite increasing reliance on
But they typically include analysing
technology. Celebration, special occasion
configurations of the basic structural
or seasonal beers offer the opportunity to
components of a building or other structure
use creative skills to design new products.
and calculating the pressures, stresses and strains that each component, such as a
Typical work activities
beam or lintel, will experience from other
Whether overseeing all stages of production
parts of the structure due to human use or
or specialising in one area, common tasks
environmental pressures such as weather
can include checking temperatures and
or earthquakes.
quality of samples and making any necessary
Other typical activities consist of
adjustments, working with the laboratory
considering the strength of various materials,
team who carry out further tests to improve
e.g. timber, concrete, steel and brick, to
the product and finding new suppliers and
see how their inclusion may necessitate a
reviewing existing ones. The role may also
change of structural design and examining
entail accurately recording raw materials,
structures at risk of collapse and advising
production stage timings and quality checks,
how to improve their structural integrity,
as well as managing resources and staff to
such as recommending removal or repair
meet objectives.
of defective parts or rebuilding the entire
Technical brewers are also likely to
structure. The role also has a strong element
be involved in working on new recipes for
of liaison, both with other designers,
seasonal and speciality beers, ensuring they
including architects, to agree on safe designs
appeal to a certain market or will enhance
and their fit with the aesthetic concept of
sales at a specific time of the year, and
the construction, and with construction
designing beer labels.
contractors to ensure that newly erected
In production management, the technical
buildings are structurally sound.
brewer is primarily involved in managing
CHAPTER 2 | jobs directory
Environment & agriculture
Overview of the sector in the UK With a quarter of the workforce aged 55 or over, there is a
Graduate training schemes are likely to be found in larger
growing need for more graduates to enter the environment
companies and with government bodies. More than half a
and agriculture sector. Both employed and self-employed roles
million volunteers contribute to the sector at any one time,
are available in the public and private sectors, in areas such as:
particularly in the animal care and environmental conservation
• agricultural crops/livestock;
industries. Opportunities for volunteering can be found with
• animal care;
not-for-profit organisations.
• animal technology; • aquaculture;
What’s it like working in the sector?
• environmental conservation;
Graduates entering the environment and agriculture sector
• equine;
can expect:
• farriery;
• outdoor work with plants, animals and machinery/technology;
• fencing;
• varied salaries that depend entirely upon entry qualification,
• floristry;
prior experience and the industry you choose to work in; • long and irregular hours of work, particularly during busy
• game and wildlife management;
seasons and when roles are affected by weather conditions.
• horticulture, landscaping and sports turf;
Working with animals can involve shift work and provision of
• land-based engineering; • production horticulture;
24/7 care, including bank holidays and weekends; • extensive opportunities for self-employment throughout most
• trees and timber;
of the sector, as there is a large demand for local services, e.g.
• veterinary work.
veterinary work and floristry, in both urban and rural settings. What are the key issues in the sector?
opportunities for a wide range of skill levels, from jobs that
Business and management skills, such as marketing expertise,
require postgraduate qualifications, such as a veterinary
sales experience and financial acumen, are thought to be the
surgeon, to those that can be entered at undergraduate level
most lacking in the workforce.
or below. There are 230,000 businesses and around 1.2 million
There will be a need for nearly 250,000 new workers
employees working in the sector. Employers range in size from
between now and 2020, according to the sector skills body
large, multinational companies, such as JCB in the engineering
Lantra, with roles in customer service and managerial and
sphere, to very small or family-owned businesses meeting local
skilled trade occupations, such as agricultural engineers,
needs, such as equine dentists or thatchers.
offering the most opportunities.
126 / 127
The environment and agriculture sector provides employment
Engineering & manufacturing / Environment & agriculture
• fisheries management;
Graduate jobs
for clients, colleagues, partnership
landscaping schemes, applying knowledge of
organisations, professional bodies and
tree biology for effective tree maintenance
other interested groups, communicating
as well as managing contracts for same, and
Agricultural consultant
effectively, both in writing and orally, with
carrying out tree inspections and surveys.
An agricultural consultant or adviser, like any
clients, colleagues and members of the
Other typical duties include following
consultant, is a professional problem-solver.
public and writing advisory leaflets, technical
and negotiating clients’ requirements, writing
They offer support and solutions to their
notes and possibly press releases and articles.
reports for engineers, solicitors, mortgage and
clients to ensure their business or enterprise
Additional likely responsibilities include
insurance companies, providing information
is running as efficiently and effectively as
marketing and promoting consultancy services
relating to trees, for example if a tree-root
possible. Clients may be farmers, growers,
to new customers, while maintaining existing
system is damaging or likely to damage a
landowners, conservation organisations,
client relationships, researching and keeping
building or cause subsidence, and reviewing
public bodies and other agricultural
up to date with any relevant developments
and responding to planning applications.
businesses in manufacturing and services.
in agriculture and undertaking administrative
Arboriculturists are also likely to be
Agricultural consultancy and advisory
duties, managing budgets and accounts,
involved in providing training for junior
work is principally split into two distinct
updating information and preparing reports.
colleagues and volunteers, conducting
but interrelated areas. First, technical
development site surveys and giving pre-
consultancy, which is the provision of
planning advice on topics such as the effect
specialist advice on agronomy, nutrition,
Arboriculturist
a proposed development may have on trees
livestock, the environment and conservation,
Arboriculturists cultivate and manage
in the area, and how best to retain them and
waste management and other technical
trees, hedgerows and shrubs. The work is
incorporate them into the finished project.
applications. Second, business consultancy,
undertaken in both rural and urban settings
In urban areas, the work involves the
which involves business planning, personnel
and includes all aspects of felling, preserving,
improvement of the relationship between the
management and estate and financial
planting and protecting trees, sometimes
environment and urban development through
management advice for agricultural
using heavy equipment.
activities such as reclaiming abandoned
businesses and farms.
They also provide information and
industrial sites, pruning tree growth away
Consultants and advisers must be aware
advice on specific tree-related issues.
from electrical cables and public access routes
of the business and legislative implications of
There is an increasing focus on maintaining
and developing practical solutions to a variety
their advice.
a safe relationship between the trees, their
of environmental issues, as well as advising on
environment and the public. Arboriculturists
trees for development sites.
Typical work activities
who do only hands-on tree and shrub
The exact nature of the work carried out by
maintenance may be called arborists.
agricultural consultants varies depending on
Arboriculturists usually specialise in a
Commercial horticulturist
the type of service they offer (e.g. business
particular area of work, such as tree climbing
Commercial horticulturists are involved in
or technical consultancy) and the type of
and maintenance, tree preservation and
the growing, distributing and selling of
employer (e.g. private consultancy or charity).
conservation, parks and gardens, planning,
food crops and plants. Commercial growers
However, typical activities include visiting
or tree survey and inspection. Advances in
may specialise in field crops, protected
clients to identify and evaluate their business
tree biology, equipment and techniques have
growing (for example, under glass), soft
and/or technical requirements, assisting clients
resulted in fundamental changes to traditional
and top fruit, hardy nursery stock and
with business planning, planning applications,
tree work practices, and arboriculture has
cut flowers. Clients include plant and tree
government grant applications, legislative
moved away from the ‘tree surgery’ approach
nurseries, supermarkets and DIY stores.
advice and new business ventures and
to a ‘tree care’ approach.
The work is increasingly complex, requiring managerial, business and
collecting and analysing data, crop yield and financial reports to measure performance.
Typical work activities
IT competence, alongside scientific
Other typical duties consist of preparing
Tasks vary between specific areas of
understanding and the traditional skills
or modifying business or operating plans,
arboriculture. An arborist works at a practical
of cultivation. Ultimately, the role involves
organising and conducting field trials to find
level and visits sites to plant trees and
the management of horticultural enterprises
solutions to clients’ problems and planning
shrubs, undertake thinning and tree surgery
and this is reflected in the variety of job
and implementing improvements for the
using a range of equipment and undertake
titles, such as crop manager, production
client such as using more effective pest-
groundwork using a chainsaw and a chipper.
manager and propagation manager.
control measures or finding more efficient
An arboriculturist may be involved in the
ways to keep and feed livestock. The role
same activities as an arborist, but works at
Typical work activities
also involves organising presentations,
a supervisory/managerial level and will also
Initially, graduates will be more concerned
demonstrations, training and farm walks
be involved in selecting plants and designing
with hands-on cultivation but, with
budgets, so a high level of competence in
specialist software programs and writing
at all stages of growing, harvesting, packing,
project management is required.
reports and issuing recommendations.
distribution and selling. Produce is sold to the
The role is also likely to involve habitat
food processing industry and plants to major
management and creation, carrying out
retailers, wholesalers and the garden trade, all
Ecologist
research and undertaking teaching in
of whom demand increasingly high standards
Ecologists are concerned with ecosystems
schools or in field centres. Further typical
of quality. In addition, the traceability of crops
as a whole and, within them, the
responsibilities include liaising with and
from seed to customer is of prime importance
abundance and distribution of organisms
advising site managers, engineers, planners
to the food industry.
(people, plants, animals) and the relationships
and others associated with a survey as well
Typical work activities may include
between organisms and their environment.
as building relationships with stakeholders,
supervising and assisting in all stages
Ecologists usually choose a specialist area
including members of the public.
of crop production and harvesting,
(e.g. freshwater, marine, terrestrial, fauna,
Additionally, ecologists keep up to
managing pest-, disease- and weed-
flora) and then carry out a wide range of
date with new environmental policies and
control programmes, commensurate with
tasks relating to that area.
legislation and often contribute ideas about
hygiene and health standards, marketing
When starting out, ecologists
changes to policy and/or legislation, based
and selling produce, depending on crop,
often conduct surveys to identify, record
on ecological findings.
season and market demand, and analysing
and monitor species and their habitats.
yields, operational costs and financial
With career progression, work is likely to
returns of horticultural operations.
become more wide-ranging, with senior
Energy engineer
The role may also involve identifying
ecologists being more involved in policy
See Engineering & Manufacturing section.
technical and business problems, investigating
and management work. It is important
the causes and formulating solutions,
that ecologists are aware of environmental
planning and organising trials to assess
policies as their work commonly has
Environmental consultant
their effectiveness and preparing new or
to comply with European and UK
See Business, Consulting &
modified operational and business plans.
environmental legislation.
Management section.
CHAPTER 2 | jobs directory
experience, they will supervise teams of others
Other typical responsibilities include The exact work of an ecologist depends on
Environmental manager
managing produce supply chain systems and
the nature of the employer and the purpose
An environmental manager is responsible for
the supporting infrastructure for processing,
of the work. For example, an ecologist
overseeing the environmental performance
storage and transport of produce and
may be involved in environmental impact
of private, public and voluntary-sector
organising presentations, technical visits
assessments which are required by law for
organisations. They also develop, implement
and demonstrations.
planning permission.
and monitor environmental strategies,
Commercial horticulturists also
Alternatively, they may collect and
policies and programmes that promote
undertake to ensure that UK, European
manage biological information for national
sustainable development.
Community and international quality,
databases, e.g. the National Biodiversity
Environmental managers examine
hygiene, health and safety, and employment
Network (NBN) or produce comprehensive
corporate activities to establish where
standards and regulations are met. Further
lists of species that need to be monitored
improvements can be made and ensure
requirements include communicating
and protected as part of the UK Post-2010
compliance with environmental legislation
effectively with customers, working
Biodiversity Framework.
across the organisation. They have a wide
colleagues and professional groups, both
Common work activities across roles
remit and will review the whole operation,
orally and in writing, through briefings,
may include conducting field surveys to
carrying out environmental audits and
reports and presentations, and training
collect information about the numbers
assessments, identifying and resolving
and instructing others and helping them
and distribution of organisms, taxonomy
environmental problems and ensuring
to develop their professional skills and
(classifying organisms), applying sampling
necessary changes are implemented.
experience. Additional typical tasks include
strategies and employing a range of
They also carry out staff training and ensure
performing essential administration,
habitat survey techniques, such as
all members of the workforce recognise
including records, budgets and accounts,
Geographic Information Systems (GIS),
and understand their own contributions
as well as keeping up to date in your
Global Positioning Systems (GPS), aerial
to improved environmental performance.
specialist area and in developments in the
photography, records and maps. Other
whole horticultural sector. At management
typical duties consist of carrying out
Typical work activities
level, the work involves meeting agreed
environmental impact assessments,
Environmental managers have an extremely
deadlines and operating within agreed
analysing and interpreting data, using
varied workload, and one that usually entails
128 / 129
Typical work activities
and negotiating with suppliers and buyers,
Environment & agriculture
developing new products and markets
a range of strategic tasks, such as developing
Farms are generally arable (crops), dairy
lets, field sports, horse trials or off-roading.
and implementing environmental strategies
or livestock, and are run by management
Other possible commercial activities consist
and action plans that ensure corporate
companies or single-owner farmers.
of wind power generation, speciality herds,
sustainable development, taking the lead
Crops range from cereals, oilseed rape
such as llamas and alpacas, and farm shops
on sustainable procurement for all goods
and potatoes to vegetables and salad crops.
selling the farm’s own and other locally
and services and coordinating all aspects
Livestock are usually pigs, cows or sheep.
sourced produce. Additionally, farmers
of pollution control, waste management,
Farm managers must appreciate the need
may create fishing lakes, set up livery
recycling, environmental health, conservation
to satisfy regulations set by the Department
stables or riding schools or start worm
and renewable energy.
for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
farming. They may also process their
Additional responsibilities include
(DEFRA) for safe, high-quality produce farmed
own products, e.g. vegetables or cold
leading the implementation of environmental
in an environmentally sustainable manner.
pressed oils.
policies and practices, ensuring compliance with environmental legislation and auditing,
Typical work activities
and analysing and reporting environmental
Farm managers are responsible for planning,
Forest/woodland manager
performance to internal and external clients
organising and managing the activities
Forest/woodland managers, or foresters,
and regulatory bodies.
of a farm to meet the objectives of the
are responsible for managing forests and
Environmental managers‘ tasks
owner. Tasks include planning finances and
woodlands for the multiple objectives
can also encompass carrying out impact
production to maintain farm progress against
of timber production, conservation and
assessments to identify, assess and reduce
budget parameters, practical activities, e.g.
recreation. They maintain and manage the
an organisation’s environmental risks
driving tractors, operating machinery, feeding
balance between various issues associated
and financial costs as well as promoting
livestock, spraying fields and marketing the
with woodland areas, such as commercial
and raising awareness, at all levels of an
farm’s products.
interests, biodiversity and public access.
organisation, of the impact of emerging
Other typical tasks consist of buying
The challenge for modern forestry is
environmental issues, whether legislative
supplies, such as fertiliser and seeds;
to establish a balance between competing
or best practice, on corporate, ethical and
arranging the maintenance and repair of
economic and social demands for forest
social responsibility. There may also be
farm buildings, machinery and equipment;
and land use. This challenge includes a
requirements for managing the development
maintaining and monitoring the quality
change of emphasis towards multipurpose
and implementation of an environmental
of yield, whether livestock or arable crops;
forests, regeneration of native woodlands
management system and the coordination
planning activities for trainee staff and
and sustainable forest management.
of public hearings and consultations on
mentoring and monitoring them.
environmental matters.
The role also entails understanding
Typical work activities
The role is also likely to involve managing
the implications of the weather and
Tasks typically involve advising clients on
relations with the board of directors, senior
making contingency plans, making sure
good forestry practice and providing a
management and staff, training all staff in
that products are ready for deadlines, such
contract service to woodland owners,
environmental issues and responsibilities
as auctions and markets, and ensuring that
including those interested in acquiring land
and participating in environmental education
farm activities comply with government
for afforestation as well as advising them on
and research. Other typical activities include
regulations. There are also requirements
the establishment of the most appropriate
negotiating environmental service agreements
to monitor animal health and welfare
tree species (whether by planting or natural
and managing associated costs and revenues,
and to apply health and safety standards
regeneration), budgeting, public access,
writing environmental reports, assuming the
across the farm estate.
ecological surveys and forest certification.
lead responsibility with the company and
Farm managers typically maintain a
The role may also include organising
leading on corporate social responsibility
knowledge of pests and diseases and an
the growing, harvesting, marketing and
issues and action.
understanding of how they spread and
sale of timber, along with planning and
how to treat them, as well as protecting the
implementing annual work programmes
environment and maintaining biodiversity.
and ensuring the effective use of different
Farm manager
Other typical duties include monitoring
resources to meet the current objectives
Farm managers raise animals, tend crops, plan
and documenting all yields and land use to
of the forest area.
strategies for maximum yield, organise farm
meet funding requirements and keeping
Additional typical duties entail
administration, work machinery, organise
financial records up to date.
supervising forest workers and contractors
associated businesses and manage staff.
Many farmers are now diversifying
in the field, which may include negotiation
They need to have technical and practical
their activities to supplement their income.
with subcontracting companies, liaising with
competence, as well as the ability to make
Supplementary activities may include
customers, landowners, timber merchants,
sound business decisions.
providing bed and breakfast or holiday
the public and local authorities – this varies
Marine science is a broad-ranging
specialist publications and the presentation of
of the employer but, in general, this is
field that covers subjects as diverse as
research findings at conferences, in addition
becoming a greater part of the role.
coastal processes, geology and geophysics,
to keeping up to date with new research and
Responsibilities may also include liaising
marine biology, oceanography, ocean
technologies and attending training courses.
and working on many projects with other
modelling and forecasting, as well as
Typical duties may also include advising on
professionals, such as landscape architects,
disciplines such as zoology, ecosystems
matters such as climate change, sea-based
archaeologists, biologists, geologists,
dynamics, biogeochemistry, hydrographic
energy technologies and environmental
chartered surveyors and engineers, and
surveying and paleooceanography.
impacts and liaising with colleagues across
charitable bodies, attending meetings
Marine scientists are employed by
the field including fellow research staff,
of professional bodies and keeping up
universities, international organisations,
technicians, ships’ crews and research
to date with changes to legislation and
commercial companies, government
assistants. There may also be a requirement
other developments. There are also likely
agencies, not-for-profit organisations and
to conduct educational and awareness-raising
to be requirements to work to and maintain
marine research institutes. While all roles
work by presenting talks to government
globally recognised forest certification,
require good general expertise and scientific
ministers, the public, fellow academics and
planning and controlling budgets and
abilities, specialisation in one particular
commercial employers.
preparing costing and financial forecasts
area, such as coastal management, fisheries
If based in an academic institution,
and promoting the expansion of new
biology, mathematical modelling of ocean
marine scientists are likely to lecture on
woodland coverage and, where possible,
change, ecosystem dynamics or chemical
specialist subjects and supervise master’s
the restoration of ancient woodland in
risk assessment, is usually required for
and PhD students.
the UK.
progression in the profession.
CHAPTER 2 | jobs directory
according to the specific post and the nature
Forest/woodland managers are also
Nature conservation officer
Work activities may be office, laboratory
Nature conservation officers work to protect,
government’s desire to promote sustainable
or field-based, including work on sea-
manage and enhance the local environment.
forest management. This includes conducting
going vessels, and may include collecting
This can include grassland, woodland,
research in areas such as silviculture (the
samples and data using processes such
forests, coastal areas, moorland, mountains
growing and cultivation of trees), pathology,
as coring techniques, GIS systems, visual
and rivers. Depending on the region, officers
tree improvement and entomology (the study
recording and sampling as well as working
might also work in marine habitats.
of insects).
with computer databases and specialist
Part of their role is to encourage
Other typical responsibilities consist
software to analyse information, e.g.
people to use the countryside and promote
of monitoring existing forestry practices,
to carry out population assessments of
awareness of, and understanding about, the
protecting forests from illegal felling, pests
particular species. Other typical duties
natural environment. They also develop policy
and diseases, and ensuring that the presence
consist of preparing detailed reports, such
that may have local and national impact.
of forests does not detrimentally affect the
as environmental impact assessments, for
In conjunction with their counterparts in
surrounding environment and wildlife by
agencies, commercial organisations or
other voluntary and statutory organisations,
damaging wildlife habitats, water supplies
governmental bodies, e.g. the Department
they set and promote targets within national
or soil.
for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
biodiversity action plans and advise and
(DEFRA) or oil companies drilling on
negotiate with employers. With a remit to
the seabed.
educate and raise awareness of environmental
Land-based engineer
The role also involves designing
issues, nature conservation officers work with
See Engineering & Manufacturing section.
scientific experiments, collating findings
all sectors of the local community including
and often designing and building the
local schools and colleges. Job titles within
appropriate equipment. Marine scientists
this sector are varied and include sustainable
Marine scientist
typically build new research theories and
development officers; project officers or
Marine scientists are involved in research,
test hypotheses and conduct sea-based
biodiversity officers; conservation assistants
analysis and forecasts in relation to the
sampling and experimentation, involving
and technicians.
oceans, their life forms and coastal areas.
periods on sea-going vessels.
They analyse the sea and its interaction
Additional likely responsibilities
Typical work activities
with the land, atmosphere and sea floors
include costing, planning and writing grant
Tasks often involve promoting and
and use the information gained to predict
proposals, as well as identifying new sources
implementing local and national biodiversity
changes to the earth’s infrastructure,
of funding and managing research budgets.
action plans in partnership with local/national
inform statutory legislation and encourage
Further typical tasks entail the preparation
statutory and voluntary organisations, as
environmental protection.
of research papers for journals and other
well as contributing to planning and policy
130 / 131
Typical work activities
wide-ranging part of the role reflecting the
Environment & agriculture
involved in forest protection, which is a
development for sustainable management,
environmental services, waste management
Soil scientist
including input to environmental impact
or community services. Opportunities to
A soil scientist gathers, interprets and
assessments. Further typical duties include
work as recycling officers are also becoming
evaluates information about the chemistry,
providing advice to clients, community
more common in the private sector.
biology and physics of soils to inform and
groups, landowners, planners and developers,
The role of recycling officer has increased
influence issues as diverse as agricultural
and preparing and implementing annual
in importance in recent years, at least partly
production, environmental quality, human
management plans based on ecological
due to government targeting initiatives for
health, climate change, land remediation
surveys and scientific observation.
reducing domestic and industrial waste.
and biodiversity. A natural and renewable resource,
The role may also entail contributing to the selection of, and assisting with,
Typical work activities
soil is vital to sustaining food production,
casework for Sites of Special Scientific
The role of a recycling officer is concerned
supporting plant and animal life and providing
Interest (SSSIs) and National Nature
primarily with promoting recycling within
a foundation for infrastructures across the
Reserves (NNRs), along with evaluating and
the local area by improving existing recycling
world. Soil scientists operate in a range of
monitoring features of nature conservation
facilities and developing new ways to meet
professional areas including:
interest in habitats and sites. Other likely
local and national targets.
• public and private sector institutions;
responsibilities include maintaining and
Typical activities may include
• government policy;
developing own knowledge and skills,
highlighting the importance of recycling
• consultancy;
especially knowledge of developments
to the local community and media,
• overseas development;
in policy, legislation and European and
encouraging households and businesses
• assistance with on-site archaeological
international regulations, promoting the
to recycle more and initiating new
concept of sustainability to the public,
recycling schemes.
colleagues and fellow professionals
The role may also entail monitoring
• landscape design;
and liaising with the media to publicise
and expanding existing schemes, e.g.
• forensics;
organisation or conservation sites.
recycling banks, kerbside collections and
• site reclamation and remediation;
Additional typical duties consist
composting and monitoring the use of
• conservation.
of organising, supervising, training and
facilities. Further typical duties include
supporting paid staff and volunteers,
strategic planning for the management
Typical work activities
dealing with enquiries from the public
and development of recycling, comparing
Typical activities depend on the employing
and maintaining effective records using
cost and performance of current schemes
organisation, the sector in which they operate
IT database systems.
with new ‘best practice’ schemes to
and how the organisation contributes to
Nature conservation officers often
maximise resources and reduce costs
society, but most soil scientists are involved
prepare applications for funding and grants
and collecting data, compiling statistics
in applying knowledge of soil science,
on behalf of their own organisation as well as
and drafting reports.
including the fundamentals of the subject,
assessing applications for funding from other
Recycling officers are often responsible
such as the biological, chemical and physical
organisations. Furthermore, they may become
for advising and assisting local community
properties of soils, and their spatial and
involved in educating young people, and
groups, managing budgets, assessing
temporal variability across the landscape.
those considering entering the profession,
tenders and preparing funding bids and
Other typical tasks include field work,
through talks and seminars to local colleges
developing a recycling infrastructure.
including the collection of soil samples
and universities.
They may also undertake the preparation,
from a range of environments, producing
management and monitoring of contracts, as
maps of soil types and their distribution and
well as managing and promoting initiatives
monitoring or supervising laboratory research.
Recycling officer
to encourage the support and cooperation
Additional likely duties encompass conducting
Recycling officers help plan and develop
of the public through advertising and
laboratory analysis of soil samples and
the environmental and waste-reduction
publicity campaigns.
research experiment, completing paperwork,
policies of local authorities such as
Further typical responsibilities include
cataloguing findings and interpreting science
county, district, borough and metropolitan
evaluating the benefits of collection,
to inform policy.
councils. They achieve this in a variety of
transportation and processing methods
Soil scientists often become involved
ways, including managing local recycling
against the savings made in energy and
in writing research reports and making
schemes, creating and delivering educational
natural resources, managing the operation
presentations on findings, including
programmes and organising community and
of collection schemes for recyclable treatment
scientific research papers and non-scientific
media liaison initiatives.
plants and composting process plants and
client reports as well as integrating soil
Recycling officers often work in
complying with current recycling legislation
science knowledge into aspects of land
departments of local government, e.g.
and EU policy.
management and ecosystems.
excavations and subsequent laboratory analysis;
meeting and consulting with the owners
to date with developments in soil science
and carers of various animals, including
and related areas, as well as environmental
zookeepers, and carrying out tests such
issues and changes in legislation that may
as x-rays, blood samples and ultrasound
impact on your work, in addition to attending
scans. The role is also likely to involve giving
conferences to keep abreast of the latest
advice to farmers on issues such as nutrition,
developments and to network with people
breeding and herd health, routinely visiting
in the profession and in related industries.
farms to check the health of livestock and
Those working in education posts are
immunising animals against different types
likely to be writing proposals and making
of disease.
bids for new research projects and funding,
Additional typical duties include
making presentations, giving seminars and
euthanising old and terminally ill animals,
teaching and advising students.
performing surgery, including managing
Soil scientists who perform consultancy
anaesthesia, and working on out-of-hours
roles are often involved in tendering for
emergency cases when on-call. Vets also
work, reporting to and advising clients,
typically provide suitable paperwork for
liaising with members of related professions,
animals travelling abroad, as well as inserting
such as ecologists, environmental scientists,
identification microchips. Other likely
engineers, geologists and hydrologists.
responsibilities include maintaining up-to-
CHAPTER 2 | jobs directory
The role also consists of keeping up
date records, liaising with, and referring to, other professionals within the industry and
Veterinary surgeon
inspecting certain animal products to ensure
Veterinary surgeons (vets) work to safeguard
that they are safe for human consumption.
the health and welfare of animals.
Vets who work as practice partners have
Vets working in general practice are
the additional responsibility of managing
responsible for the medical and surgical
practice finances, promoting the surgery to
treatment of a range of animals, including
potential clients, and recruiting and managing
domestic, zoo and farm animals. They also
vets, veterinary nurses and other relevant
work to prevent disease in animals and the
staff. Vets working for government agencies
spread of disease.
may research diseases, test and manage
There are mixed veterinary practices
infection outbreaks, investigate food safety
and those specialising in small animals, food-
issues and complete paperwork for
producing animals and equine work, amongst
pet passports.
others. The specialism may depend on the practice’s rural or urban location. Vets combine their knowledge of animal physiology, nutrition and medicine with practical skills to diagnose illnesses, prescribe medicines and perform surgery. They also manage anaesthesia during procedures. Vets are also employed in other sectors, such as education and research, and pharmaceutical companies. Typical work activities Vets work either from a surgery or by visiting animals in their living environments, such as a farm or stables. Some vets carry out home visits. and treating all species of animals, including domestic animals, farm livestock and horses,
132 / 133
Typical tasks include handling, examining
Environment & agriculture
government agencies, animal charities
Health & social care
Overview of the sector in the UK The health and social care sector covers a range of services
• r esidential and non-residential care;
across a range of organisations within the public, private
•p rivate/independent organisations;
and voluntary sectors, including hospitals, hospices, nursing
•p ublic sector;
and care homes, medical and dental practices, ambulance
• c harity/voluntary organisations.
transport and complementary medicine. The current financial climate, combined with recent
What’s it like working in the sector?
changes within the NHS, has influenced the health and social
Graduates entering the health and social care sector can expect:
care sector. However graduate opportunities can be found
• shift work with unsociable and often long working hours;
in a wide range of subject areas. In total the sector employs
• d ifferent working conditions within the same role and
around four million people in the UK.
organisation. For example experiences of working in a hospital will differ between the outpatients department
Health consists of both private and public sector organisations including: • dental practices;
and the morgue; • a working environment that can be stressful and emotionally involved;
• general medical and specialist medical practices;
• a relatively low level of self-employment;
• hospitals;
• to be able to work anywhere in the country as all
• medical nursing homes;
communities require health and social care roles
• other human health activities such as psychotherapy
such as doctors and dentists.
and physiotherapy. What are the key issues in the sector? Employment opportunities in the social care sector are
The biggest issue that the health and social care sector faces
grouped into:
is meeting an increased demand for services when budgets are
• residential nursing care;
being tightened. Budget restrictions could mean that less health
• residential nursing activities;
and social care jobs are created – although this isn’t necessarily
• residential care facilities;
bad news, as graduates will be needed to replace those
• child day care;
professionals that retire or leave.
• non-residential social care.
There are signs that recent graduates are finding it difficult to secure work immediately after graduation in some health
The largest employer in the health sector is the NHS, which
and social care jobs. In 2010/11, fewer graduates found work
employs more than 1.7 million people in the UK. Unlike the
six months after graduation as social workers, physiotherapists,
health sector, social care roles are split across a number of
medical radiographers and occupational therapists than did in
different sized businesses, including:
2009/10 (HECSU, What Do Graduates Do? 2012).
needles into the skin at particular locations
with injuries, attending an outpatient clinic
to stimulate the energy flow along meridians
or undergoing tests and assessments.
(energy channels) and the body’s own healing
The trend for community-based care
Acupuncturist
response or moxibustion (burning herbs to
has led to an increase in the number of
An acupuncturist is a complementary health
warm insertion points). Other treatment
opportunities for working in the community.
practitioner who takes a holistic approach
methods that may be used entail electro-
By giving people preventative treatment and
to the maintenance of health and the
acupuncture (stimulating insertion points
meeting patient needs in the comfort of their
management of disease with a focus on
with small electric currents), acupressure
own home, unnecessary travel to hospital for
improving overall well-being.
(to loosen and relax muscles) and cupping.
appointments and hospital admissions can
Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese
The role is also likely to involve
often be avoided. It is possible for a newly
holistic therapy based on the theory that
assessing patient progress through
qualified nurse to work in the community,
the body depends on life energy, known
questioning and examination as well as
although many gain a year’s hospital
as Qi, being in balance. Acupuncturists
reviewing treatment plans if necessary,
experience first.
correct imbalances in the body by inserting
keeping patient and financial records and
Exact duties may vary depending on
fine needles into acupuncture points, thus
organising and promoting your practice.
your role but will usually include writing
maintaining or restoring good health and
CHAPTER 2 | jobs directory
Graduate jobs
patient-care plans, implementing plans
well-being. The correct manipulation of
through tasks such as preparing patients
Qi can treat a range of emotional and
Adult nurse
for operations; wound treatment;
physical conditions, such as disorders of
Adult nurses care for adult patients who
monitoring pulse, blood pressure and
the musculoskeletal, respiratory, circulatory
are suffering from acute and long-term
temperature; and observing and recording
gastrointestinal and gynaecological systems
illnesses and diseases. They support recovery
the condition of patients. Other possible
as well as neurological and stress-related
from illness or operation by using care
tasks are checking and administering
disorders and the relief of pain and allergies.
plans, carrying out care procedures and
drugs and injections, setting up drips
assessments and by focusing on the needs
and blood transfusions and responding
Typical work activities
of the patient rather than the illness or
quickly to emergencies, as well as assisting
Acupuncturists conduct one-to-one
condition. They also promote good health
with tests and evaluations.
consultations with their patients, using
and wellbeing through education.
Nurses may also carry out routine
their skills and knowledge to treat a wide
Nurses usually work within a
investigations, plan discharges from hospital
range of health problems.
multidisciplinary team but are the main
and liaise with community nurses, GPs
The first consultation may last up to an
point of contact for patients, often providing
and social workers. Additionally, they can
hour and a half to allow the acupuncturist
the most continuity of care. Adult nurses
be involved in communicating with and
to take a detailed case history before making
work mainly in hospitals and the community,
relieving the anxiety of patients and their
a diagnosis and beginning treatment.
attached to a health centre or general
relatives, advocating on behalf of patients
Subsequent sessions may take 45 minutes
practice and in residential homes, specialist
and educating patients about their health.
to an hour. The duration of the treatment
units, schools and hospices. Many nurses
Responsibilities may also include
programme varies depending on the severity
work with patients in their own homes.
organising staff and prioritising busy
of the problem. Some patients may require
workloads, mentoring student and junior nurses and maintaining patient records.
20 or more.
Gaining the trust and confidence of each
Nurses can also be involved in making
Tasks typically involve taking a detailed
patient is an important aspect of the job for
ethical decisions related to consent
case history – which consists of questioning
nurses, especially as they have more contact
and confidentiality.
patients about their condition, all aspects
with the patients than other members of the
of their physical and emotional health and
medical team. This extends to developing a
history, lifestyle and diet – and making
good relationship with the patient’s relatives
Chiropractor
a diagnosis and devising a personalised
as well, particularly in cases of chronic illness
Chiropractors are primary healthcare
treatment plan. Other diagnosis methods
where the patient may be returning regularly
professionals concerned with the diagnosis,
sometimes used in acupuncture are checking
for treatment.
treatment and prevention of mechanical
blood pressure, taking a pulse and examining
Patients may have chronic conditions,
disorders of the musculoskeletal system
the tongue.
such as diabetes or heart/kidney problems,
and the effect of these disorders on
Additional typical activities include
or serious acute conditions, such as
the nervous system and general health.
explaining the diagnosis and treatment to the
heart failure, stroke, hepatitis or burns.
Their aim is to relieve pain, increase
patient and responding to their questions and
They may be in hospital for surgery,
mobility and to get patients back to full
concerns. Treatment can involve inserting fine
admitted to accident and emergency
health and movement.
134 / 135
Typical work activities
Health & social care
only a few sessions, while others may need
Treatment involves using the hands
Child psychotherapist
to regular appointments over several
to apply a specific force to adjust the joints
Child and adolescent psychotherapists offer
years. Other activities typically include
of the body. Chiropractors treat chronic
psychoanalytic treatment to children and
working alongside other professionals
and acute conditions, which include back,
young people with emotional or behavioural
in planning how best to help a child and
shoulder and neck problems and joint,
difficulties, including depression, anxiety,
the child’s family, for example in schools,
posture and muscle issues, as well as
development delay, phobias, aggression,
hospitals, children’s services and child
sports injuries.
and gender dysphoria, as well as the
protection agencies as well as working as
The profession takes a holistic approach
consequences of child abuse, self-harming,
part of multidisciplinary teams comprising
to the needs of patients, considering
learning difficulties and disabilities and
psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers,
physical, psychological and social factors,
eating or psychosomatic disorders.
paediatric nurses, special educational needs
and recognises the value of working with
Other psychotherapeutic approaches
coordinators (SENCOs), family therapists
other healthcare practitioners. The treatment
and methodologies based on a range of
and community psychiatric nurses, most
is designed to encourage the body’s natural
traditions, including integrative, integrative
commonly in Child and Adolescent Mental
healing process and it does not include
arts, humanistic, transactional analysis and
Health Services (CAMHS).
surgery or drugs.
systemic psychotherapies, may also be used.
The role may also encompass
Child and adolescent psychotherapists
supervising trainee child psychotherapists
Typical work activities
use a multidisciplinary approach and work
and other therapists and offering training,
The majority of a chiropractor’s time
within the context of the child’s life, for
consultation and supervision to other
is spent in individual consultations.
example, the family or school. They may
professionals who work with children and
These consultations will involve diagnosis
see a child individually, in a group with
families in the community, including health
and treatment and include taking detailed
other children, or with parents or other
visitors, social workers, teachers, midwives
medical histories, including information
family members. They may also see parents
and nurses. There may also be a requirement
on previous injuries, surgery, general
or carers without the child being present.
to plan service delivery in conjunction with
health and lifestyle, conducting physical
Child and adolescent psychotherapy is a
commissioners and develop new services.
examinations of patients, focusing on the
core profession within Child and Adolescent
spine and posture, noting the range of
Mental Health Services (CAMHS).
Counsellor
movement and taking and interpreting x-rays, as appropriate. Chiropractors may
Typical work activities
Counsellors help people to explore feelings
also check blood pressure and perform
Child and adolescent psychotherapists are
and emotions that are often related to
other medical tests. Additionally, they may
skilled in the assessment and treatment of
their experiences. This allows their clients
be involved in establishing an appropriate
children and young people, and are trained
to reflect on what is happening to them
treatment or management plan for
to carefully observe them and respond to
and consider alternative ways of doing
the patient.
what they might be communicating through
things. Working in a confidential setting,
their behaviour and play. They tailor their
counsellors listen attentively to their clients
include performing adjustments of the joints
approach to the individual child and work
and offer them the time, empathy and
of the spine and extremities using hands or
in an age-appropriate way.
respect they need to express their feelings
specialist equipment and performing soft
Younger children, for example, may
and perhaps understand themselves from
tissue therapies, such as massage.
play with the toys provided or draw, whilst
a different perspective. The aim is reduce
The role may also entail educating
teenagers might talk about their feelings.
their confusion and enable them to cope
and advising patients on rehabilitation
Infants and parents are seen together
with challenges or to make positive changes
exercises to aid long-term recovery and
so that their patterns of interaction can
in their life where necessary.
techniques to ensure health is maintained,
be considered. To a trained eye, play is a
Counsellors do not give advice, but help
keeping accurate and confidential clinical
powerful form of communication, which may
clients to make their own choices within the
records and liaising with other healthcare
express how children feel and the difficulties
framework of an agreed counselling contract.
practitioners and referring patients requiring
they may be experiencing. The relationship
other medical attention.
between the child and the therapist is central
Typical work activities
Chiropractors often undertake continuing
to treatment.
There are various models of counselling,
professional development (CPD) through case
Tasks typically involve providing
each with its own theoretical basis.
review, training, attending conferences and
assessment and treatment of children and
Differences in approach can relate to
reading professional journals. If they are self-
adolescents as individuals or in a group
the individual practitioner’s interests and
employed, they are likely to be involved in the
and providing short-term and long-term
training, the setting in which the counselling
many aspects associated with managing and
interventions with children, young people
consultation takes place, or the predominant
promoting the practice.
and/or parents, from two to six sessions
client group. There is also no clear
Other chiropractic activities typically
professionals (DCPs) and treats a wide range
Patients may be referred to hospital clinics
and psychotherapy, and both can encompass
of patients, from children to the elderly.
for further assessment and/or treatment.
talking therapies. Counsellors working in
GPs may run specialist clinics within Typical work activities
the practice for patients with specific
addiction, sexual abuse or health) tend to
Most dentists work in dental practices
conditions. They increasingly work as
specialise in the models used in those areas.
where, in addition to the dentist(s), the
part of a team alongside other healthcare
Across most areas of counselling,
team may include a receptionist, dental
professionals, including community health
typical work activities include establishing a
nurse, dental hygienist, dental therapist
doctors, to discuss care options for patients
relationship of trust and respect with clients,
and dental technician. A dentist is typically
and their families and help patients to take
agreeing a counselling contract to determine
responsible for educating patients on oral
responsibility for their own health.
what will be covered in sessions (including
healthcare, examining teeth and diagnosing
GPs who are partners in a practice
confidentiality issues) and encouraging clients
patients’ dental conditions by using tools such
are also responsible for the running of
to talk about issues they feel they cannot
as x-rays, assessing treatment options and
the practice, which involves a range of
normally share with others.
agreeing treatment plans with patients.
administrative activities, such as employing
Additional likely tasks encompass
Other typical responsibilities include
staff, managing contracts and working
actively listening to client concerns and
carrying out agreed clinical treatments such
within strict budgets.
empathising with their position, accepting
as restoring teeth affected by decay and
without bias the issues raised by clients
treating gum disease, maintaining patients’
Typical work activities
and helping clients towards a deeper
dental records and recruiting, training and
Tasks include responding to medical/health
understanding of their concerns.
managing staff.
problems presented by patients including
The role may also entail challenging any
Dentists are often involved in managing
history taking, diagnosis, investigation,
inconsistencies in what clients say, helping
budgets and maintaining stocks of equipment,
treatment and referral as appropriate,
clients to make decisions and choices regarding
keeping abreast of new developments
maintaining confidentiality and impartiality
possible ways forward and referring clients
through structured continuing professional
and commissioning healthcare by liaising
to other sources of help, as appropriate.
development (CPD) and marketing services
with medical professionals in the community
Other typical responsibilities include attending
to potential clients.
and hospitals.
supervision and training courses, undertaking
Some practices also employ practice
Other typical activities include promoting
personal therapy (mandatory for accreditation)
managers so that dentists can concentrate on
health education in conjunction with other
and undertaking group as well as individual
clinical work. Hospital dentists usually treat
health professionals, organising preventative
therapy on occasions.
patients who have been referred by a GDP and
medical programmes for individual patients
Counsellors may also become involved in
provide more specialised and complex dental
and providing specialist clinics for specific
liaising, as necessary, with other agencies and
care. Additional postgraduate qualifications
conditions or for certain groups, e.g. diabetes,
individuals to help make changes based on the
are required for career progression.
smoking cessation and new babies.
issues raised by clients, keeping records and
Dental officers working in the Community
GPs often undertake the meeting of
utilising reporting tools and working to agreed
Dental Service (CDS) (known in England as the
targets set by the government for specific
targets in relation to client contact.
Salaried Primary Dental Care Service (SPDCS))
treatments, such as child immunisations.
are employed by primary care trusts (PCTs)
The role may also involve discussing the
and provide dental care to adults and children
development of new pharmaceutical products
Dentist
with special needs and disabilities, as well as
with pharmaceutical sales representatives
Dentists are healthcare professionals who
providing school visits.
and managing resources to service targets
provide preventive and restorative treatments
Dentists in the armed forces hold
as effectively as possible, for example, using
for problems that affect the mouth and
a commissioned rank and provide a
Choose and Book, the national electronic
teeth. Most dentists work as self-employed
comprehensive range of dental services
referral service.
practitioners in general practice, providing
for armed forces personnel in the UK
There may also be a requirement to use
dental care to the public under the National
and abroad.
IT skills – some practices have one partner
Health Service (NHS) and/or privately. Others
who specialises in the use of IT within the
work in salaried posts within a variety of
practice but all will be expected to have
General practice doctor
basic abilities for work such as maintaining
dentistry, the armed forces, corporate
General practitioners, or GPs, provide primary
patients’ records using specific packages.
practices, industry, or university teaching
and continuing medical care for patients.
Additional responsibilities include keeping
and research.
They take account of physical, emotional
up to date with medical developments, new
A general dental practitioner (GDP)
and social factors when diagnosing illness
drugs, treatments and medications, including
typically leads a team made up of dental care
and recommending the required treatment.
complementary medicine, observing and
136 / 137
specialisms in hospital dentistry, community
Health & social care
specific fields (e.g. relationship guidance,
CHAPTER 2 | jobs directory
distinction between the terms counselling
assessing the work of trainee GPs and
patient progress and responding to patient
Responsibilities also typically include
medical students and teaching at medical
queries and problems, either face to face
identifying high-risk pregnancies and making
schools or hospitals and maintaining a
or over the phone.
referrals to doctors and other medical
portfolio of (CPD) activities.
The role may also entail instructing
specialists, arranging and providing parenting
Partners in a practice may decide to
patients about the use and effects of
and health education for the woman, her
expand their career portfolio and specialise in
particular remedies, advising on lifestyle
partner and family members and encouraging
a specific area of medicine, such as obstetrics
issues, such as diet, exercise and mental
participation of family members in the birth.
and gynaecology, psychiatry or orthopaedics.
health, or referring the patient to other
Additionally, midwives may provide
They may also specialise in areas such as
health practitioners, as appropriate.
counselling and advice before and after
IT, human resource management, medical
Responsibilities also typically include
screening, as well as offering support and
education or training.
maintaining detailed clinical notes and
advice following events such as miscarriage,
records for each patient, researching medical
termination, stillbirth, neonatal abnormality
conditions and homeopathic remedies and
and neonatal death.
Homeopath
running seminars and presentations for
Other typical duties include supervising
Homeopathy is a system of alternative
groups in the community, or for other
and assisting mothers in labour, monitoring
or complementary medicine based on
health practitioners, to promote homeopathy.
the condition of the foetus and using
treating the individual with very diluted
There is likely to be a requirement to manage
knowledge of drugs and pain management.
natural substances, given in mainly tablet
a business (and all that this entails: finance,
The role encompasses giving support and
form, which trigger the body’s natural
taxation and marketing or promotion).
advice on the daily care of the baby, including
system of healing. Homeopaths decide
Homeopaths with a good level of
breast feeding, bathing and making up feeds
on the most appropriate treatment for
professional experience may also be
and providing advice and guidance on a safe
the patient on the basis of the symptoms
involved with training and/or supervising
and timely transfer home.
the patient experiences.
homeopathy students.
Midwives also often liaise with agencies
Homeopaths treat a range of conditions.
and other health and social care professionals
They might be physical problems, such as skin
to ensure continuity of care, engage in
ailments, asthma or arthritis, or they might be
Midwife
professional development to meet PREP
of an emotional or psychological nature, like
Midwives provide advice, care and support for
(post-registration education and practice)
depression or phobias. They adopt a holistic
women and their partners and families before,
requirements and participate in the training
approach with their patients, treating the
during and after childbirth. They help women
and supervision of junior colleagues.
person as a whole, including past and present
make their own decisions about the care and
symptoms. Patients may seek treatment
services they access. They care for newborn
themselves or be referred to a homeopath
children, providing health education and
Paramedic
by their GP. Duration of treatment varies from
parenting support for the first 28 days,
See Armed Forces & Emergency
weeks to months or years, depending on the
after which care transfers to a health visitor.
Services section.
severity of the disorder.
Midwives are personally responsible
Most practitioners are solely homeopaths
for the health of both mother and child
but some are also trained in conventional
and refer to obstetricians only if there
Physiotherapist
medicine and practice as doctors, dentists
are medical complications. They work in
Physiotherapists treat patients with physical
and veterinary surgeons.
multidisciplinary teams in both hospital and,
difficulties resulting from illness, injury,
increasingly, community healthcare settings.
disability or ageing. They treat people of all ages including children, the elderly, stroke
Typical work activities Tasks include assessing patients and
Typical work activities
patients and people with sports injuries.
developing a detailed case history
A midwife has a range of responsibilities,
Physiotherapists work with patients
with patients comprising psychological,
including the care of mother and baby,
to identify and improve their movement
emotional and physical symptoms and
adhering to hospital policy and maintaining
and function. They help promote their
characteristics, as well as using
an awareness of issues such as health
patients’ health and wellbeing, and assist
homeopathic remedies to treat a range
and safety. Typical work activities include
the rehabilitation process by developing
of conditions e.g. arthritis and eczema.
diagnosing, monitoring and examining
and restoring body systems, in particular
Additional duties typically include
women during pregnancy, developing,
the neuromuscular, musculoskeletal,
analysing each case to select a remedy
assessing and evaluating individual
cardiovascular and respiratory systems.
or series of remedies appropriate for
programmes of care and providing full
They devise and review treatment
the individual (this may take several
antenatal care, including screening tests
programmes, comprising manual therapy,
consultations), monitoring and evaluating
in the hospital, community and the home.
movement, therapeutic exercise and the
Social worker
giving evidence in court. Social workers
e.g. ultrasound. Physiotherapists also
A social worker works with people who
may also be asked to participate in training,
provide advice on how to avoid injury.
have been socially excluded or who are
supervision and team meetings.
experiencing crisis. Their role is to provide Typical work activities
support to enable service users to help
Physiotherapists work in a range of
themselves. They maintain professional
Youth worker
settings, including hospitals, health
relationships with service users, acting
See Charities & Voluntary Work section.
centres, industry, private practices and
as guides, advocates or critical friends.
sports clubs. They treat a wide variety
Social workers work in a variety of
of conditions, such as injuries and
settings within a framework of relevant
fractures (including sports injuries),
legislation and procedures, supporting
orthopaedics and joints, strokes, post-
individuals, families and groups within
surgical rehabilitation, intensive care
the community. Settings may include the
or terminal illness, abdominal conditions,
service user’s home, schools, hospitals or
obstetrics and gynaecology, chest
the premises of other public sector and
conditions, posture and movement,
voluntary organisations.
neurological conditions, learning
Qualified social work professionals are
difficulties and mental illness.
often supported by social work assistants.
Treatment involves encouraging
They also work closely with other health
exercise and movement by the use of
and social care staff.
CHAPTER 2 | jobs directory
application of technological equipment,
techniques such as therapeutic movement Many social workers work with young
Tasks often include working with patients
people and their families. They may also
to identify the physical problem, developing
work with young offenders, people with
and reviewing treatment programmes and
mental health conditions, school non-
assisting patients with joint and spinal
attenders, drug and alcohol abusers, people
problems, especially following surgery.
with learning and physical disabilities, the
Physiotherapists are often involved in
homeless and the elderly.
helping patients’ rehabilitation following
Government legislation focusing
accidents, injury and strokes, supervising
on the integration of health and social
physiotherapy assistants and assisting in
work services means that social workers
the supervision and education of junior
often work in multidisciplinary teams.
physiotherapists. Additional duties typically
Tasks typically involve undertaking and
include writing patient case notes and
writing up assessments (often with
reports, collecting patient statistics and
medical staff), which meet specified
educating and advising patients and
standards and timescales, conducting
their carers about how to prevent and/or
interviews with service users and their
improve conditions.
families to assess and review their situation
The role is likely to involve keeping
and offering information and counselling
up to date with new techniques and
support to service users and their families.
technologies available for treating patients,
Other typical work activities include
liaising with other healthcare personnel
organising and managing packages of support
to supply and receive relevant information
to enable service users to lead the fullest
about the background and progress of
lives possible, recommending and sometimes
patients, as well as referring patients who
making decisions about the best course of
require other specific medical attention.
action for a particular service user and liaising
Other elements of the job include
with, and making referrals to,other agencies.
being legally responsible and accountable,
The role may also encompass participating
and managing clinical risk.
in multidisciplinary teams and meetings
Physiotherapists often see patients
regarding, for example, child protection or
for several consultations over a period of
mental health, maintaining accurate records
weeks or months.
and preparing reports for legal action and
138 / 139
Typical work activities
electrotherapy and/or hydrotherapy.
Health & social care
and exercise therapy, massage, manipulation,
Hospitality, tourism & sport
Overview of the sector in the UK The hospitality, tourism and sport sector covers a broad
many large employers in the industry. Where there are large
area and includes the management of restaurants, bars
organisations operating in this sector, they are mainly in the
and sports clubs, and various roles within the travel and
accommodation and sport and active leisure areas.
tourism industry. It is reported that the demand for graduates in this sector is set to grow, with a predicted 69,000 more
Graduates entering the hospitality, tourism and sport sector
managerial jobs in 2017 than in 2007.
can expect:
The hospitality, tourism and sport sector employs over
• a relatively low salary – the sector has the lowest mean hourly
two million people in the UK, across more than 220,000
earnings of all the sectors. However, this is largely a result of the
different sized organisations. Employment opportunities in the
low average hourly pay in the food and beverage area bringing
hospitality, tourism and sport sector can be categorised into:
down the figures. Other areas pay considerably better. In travel
• Accommodation – 16 per cent of those in the sector
and tourism and sport and active leisure, for example, employees
work in hotels, hostels, bread and breakfasts (B&Bs) and self-contained apartments; • Betting and gambling – 4 per cent work in casinos or betting shops; • Food and beverage services – the majority of people in the sector work in bars, pubs, inns, cafés and restaurants; • Sports and active leisure – 20 per cent of employees
earn an average of £13 and £14 per hour respectively; • a customer-facing working environment – many roles are busy and fast-paced, particularly at peak times, and require a lot of interaction with consumers; • t o start on part-time hours – 44 per cent of the workforce is employed on a part-time basis, although there is scope for full-time hours in a range of positions.
work in the likes of gyms, golf courses, football clubs and theme parks; • Travel and tourism – 6 per cent of the sector’s workforce are in the travel agent or tour operator industries.
What are the key issues in the sector? Because of its reliance on consumer spending, this sector was affected by the closure of organisations during the recession. Pubs, bars and nightclubs have been affected the most during
This sector is expected to grow significantly over the next
the economic downturn, but the majority of the issues actually
couple of years, with a rise in demand predicted particularly
arose before the recession, including the smoking ban, increases
for high-level, skilled positions.
in ‘beer tax’ and competition from supermarkets. The number of restaurants in the UK has fallen, too;
What’s it like working in the sector?
however, the number of staff employed in this area has increased.
The vast majority of organisations in hospitality, tourism and
This suggests the organisations that went out of business were
sport employ fewer than 50 people, meaning there aren’t
small, while the larger chains have been expanding.
to be involved in arranging repairs and
other managers and supervisors to handle
maintenance of rooms and reception
the different catering functions.
areas, inspecting the accommodation to
Catering managers can work in-house for
Accommodation manager
ensure that hygiene and health and safety
a variety of organisations, including hospitals,
Accommodation managers are employed
regulations are met, and recruiting and
schools, factories and prisons, or can work
in both the private and public sectors,
supervising teams of room attendants.
for a contract catering company providing
by conference centres, hotels, halls of
Additional typical duties include training
catering services to a range of clients.
residences, NHS hospitals and health
staff to ensure that the organisation’s high
worker housing, government-run
standards are maintained and arranging
Typical work activities
care homes, housing associations and
laundry and linen supplies.
Typical tasks include planning menus in
youth hostels. It is the accommodation
Many of the above activities are also
consultation with chefs, recruiting and
manager’s responsibility to ensure that
common for accommodation managers
training permanent and casual staff and
their establishment is run efficiently, that
in hostels, but work will usually be on
organising, leading and motivating
standards of cleanliness and maintenance
a smaller scale. In educational/hospital
the catering team.
are upheld (in rooms, bathrooms and
accommodation, typical activities include
Other typical duties include planning
public areas), that budgets are controlled
planning the availability of accommodation
staff shifts and rotas, ensuring health and
and that their teams of staff are well
for students or conference delegates
safety regulations are strictly observed and
trained and managed.
(education) or for nursing and medical
budgeting and establishing financial targets
Job titles vary depending on the sector:
staff (hospitals), budgeting and controlling
and forecasts.
in hotels, accommodation managers may
finances and managing maintenance and
Catering managers are often also
be known as housekeepers or housekeeping
arranging repairs of the facilities.
responsible for monitoring the quality
managers; in education, such as in halls of
The role may also require supervising the
of the product and service provided,
residences, they may be known as domestic
work of cleaning staff and ensuring standards
keeping financial and administrative
bursars; and in hospitals as domestic services
are maintained, ensuring the smooth running
records and managing the payroll and
or facilities managers.
of accommodation facilities, including the
monitoring spending levels. The role may
safety and well-being of students (or nursing
also encompass maintaining stock levels
Typical work activities
staff) and involvement in the building and
and ordering new supplies as required;
Accommodation managers across all sectors
refurbishment of residential accommodation.
interacting with customers if involved
and establishments have similar managerial
Accommodation managers may be
with front of house work; and liaising
responsibilities that often cover people and
involved in some practical or hands-on
with suppliers and clients.
the building. Common tasks include people
work depending on the establishment, but
Additional work activities may include
management and training, budget control,
their role is mainly supervisory, with people
negotiating contracts with customers,
business planning and administration. Exact
management constituting a significant
assessing their requirements and ensuring
duties and levels of responsibility vary from
proportion of their role. Increasingly, they
they are satisfied with the service delivered
position to position. For example, in a large
are required to manage staff employed by
(in contract catering).
hotel chain an accommodation manager’s
contractors, as opposed to in-house teams,
In more senior posts, principal tasks
role may be restricted to housekeeping and
and therefore need to be able to handle
involve setting and agreeing budgets,
be more clearly defined than in a smaller
rapid staff turnover and ensure all new staff
monitoring quality standards and overseeing
independent hotel. Domestic bursars within
are fully aware of policies and procedures.
the management of facilities, e.g. checking
the education sector sometimes assume
CHAPTER 2 | jobs directory
Graduate jobs
event bookings and allocation of resources
responsibility for catering operations.
and staff. The role may also entail planning new promotions and initiatives, and
include ensuring that accommodation is
Catering managers plan, organise and
contributing to business development,
clean, well maintained and attractively
develop the food and beverage services of
dealing with staffing and client issues and
presented, controlling a budget, managing
organisations and businesses, whilst meeting
keeping abreast of trends and developments
stock levels and ordering supplies and liaising
customer expectations, food and hygiene
in the industry such as menus, consumer
with reception services to coordinate the
standards and financial targets. The role
tastes and management issues.
allocation of accommodation.
varies according to the size and nature of
Other typical duties encompass liaising
the business. In a small establishment, the
with other departments in the organisation,
catering manager usually has a hands-on
Event organiser
e.g. catering or conferences, planning
role and is involved in the day-to-day running
Event organisers are responsible for the
staff rotas and covering duty roster slots.
of the operation. In larger organisations,
production of events from conception
Accommodation managers are also likely
however, the catering manager might have
through to completion. Events can include
140 / 141
Catering manager
Hospitality, tourism & sport
In hotel accommodation, typical activities
exhibitions and fairs, festivals, conferences,
and organising the production of tickets,
including recruiting and managing security
promotions, product launches and
posters, catalogues and sales brochures.
staff in large or centrally based pubs and
fundraising and social events.
Further responsibilities include coordinating
overseeing compliance with health and
Event organisers work in the public,
suppliers, handling client queries and
safety regulations at all times in the pub,
private and not-for-profit sectors and can
troubleshooting on the day of the event
kitchen and other areas.
work for event management companies,
to ensure that all runs smoothly.
Additional typical duties include
in-house for an organisation or freelance.
Typically, event managers also oversee
organising and advertising events such
The role is hands-on and often involves
the dismantling and removal of the event
as live music, comedy nights, quizzes and
working as part of a team. Event organisers
and clearing the venue efficiently as well as
karaoke competitions, which may involve
must be able to complete a wide range of
undertaking post-event evaluation (including
researching and recruiting talent, running
activities requiring clear communication,
data entry and analysis and producing
promotional campaigns to market house
excellent organisational skills and attention
reports for event stakeholders).
products, and collecting and acting on
to detail. They must work well under
customer feedback to improve the overall
pressure, ensuring the smooth and efficient running of an event. Typical work activities
running of the venue.
Hotel manager
Public house managers also undertake
See Business, Consulting &
regular stock checks, placing orders with
Management section.
suppliers and restocking (which involves
The role of event organiser varies
physical work), ensure regular maintenance
depending on the organisation and
of the premises, including cleaning and
type of event involved. Activities often
Public house manager
repairs, and recruit, train and manage staff.
include researching markets to identify
A public house manager is responsible for
Other likely responsibilities include
opportunities for events, liaising with
the commercial success of a pub or bar.
monitoring profitability and performance
clients to ascertain their precise event
Duties range from front-of-house work to
to ensure sales targets are met or exceeded
requirements and producing detailed
staff recruitment, marketing, accounting
and meeting with the area or business
proposals for events (e.g. timelines,
and stock control. The role requires strong
manager for the region to assess pub
venues, suppliers, legal obligations,
management, commercial and practical skills.
performance and set sales targets.
staffing and budgets).
Legislation changes have led to a more
The role may also encompass ensuring
Additional likely activities include
competitive market and an industry that is
that the pub adheres to various legal
agreeing to and managing a budget,
the focus of public attention. A pub manager
frameworks and maintaining relations
securing and booking a suitable venue
must constantly adapt to ensure that their
with members of the local community,
or location and ensuring insurance,
pub is profitable, pleasant and safe and
the police and liquor licensing authorities.
legal, health and safety obligations
that it is run in accordance with the law
are adhered to.
and ethical guidelines. The sale of alcohol
Events organisers are also typically
is restricted in the UK. Pubs, restaurants,
Restaurant manager
responsible for coordinating venue
shops and other premises must be licensed
Restaurant managers ensure that restaurants
management, caterers, stand designers,
by the local authority, and the manager
operate efficiently and profitably while
contractors and equipment hire, organising
must also hold a personal licence.
maintaining their reputation and ethos. They must coordinate a variety of activities,
facilities for car parking, traffic control, security, first aid, hospitality and the media,
Typical work activities
whatever the size or type of the outlet.
and identifying and securing speakers or
As public houses differ widely, day-to-day
Managers are responsible for the business
special guests.
duties vary. Running a small, independent
performance of their restaurant, as well
The role also encompasses planning
tenancy pub involves different challenges
as maintaining high standards of food,
room layouts and the entertainment
from operating a high-profile ‘chain’
service, and health and safety.
programme, scheduling workshops and
pub. Some large or lucrative pubs employ
Restaurant management combines
demonstrations, coordinating staffing
assistant managers to help with the day-
strategic planning, shift pattern organisation
requirements and staff briefings and selling
to-day running of the outlet and often
and day-to-day management activities.
sponsorship/stand/exhibition space to
vacancies are advertised for a manager
Depending on the nature of the outlet, the
potential exhibitors/partners, as well as
or management couple.
role may have creative aspects, particularly
preparing delegate packs and papers.
Typical activities may include interacting
in marketing and business development.
Other additional duties include liaising
with customers (including serving food and
As a key role operating within the
with marketing and PR colleagues to
drink) and ensuring that high standards of
hospitality industry, a career in restaurant
promote the event, liaising with clients and
customer service are maintained, taking
management may be fast-paced, highly
designers to create a brand for the event
responsibility for pub safety and security,
demanding and very rewarding.
• spa, sauna or therapy area;
preparing cash projections for centre owners
Work duties vary depending on the type
• catering and other recreational facilities.
or more senior management.
of restaurant, but usually include three distinct areas: business, front-of-house
A fitness centre manager may also be
and housekeeping.
known as a health club manager, leisure
Outdoor pursuits manager
Business activities typically include
club manager or sports centre manager.
Outdoor pursuits managers run centres
taking responsibility for the business
Their responsibilities usually cover the
that provide facilities for and instruction
performance of the restaurant, analysing
broad areas of marketing the facility,
in a range of outdoor activities, such as
and planning restaurant sales levels and
managing staff and dealing with the
climbing, mountaineering, water sports,
profitability and organising marketing
technical aspects of fitness provision and
orienteering, horse riding and cycling.
activities, such as promotional events and
health and safety. The manager is also
Most centre managers will have a background
discount schemes. Other typical duties
accountable for the overall profitability
in instructing and may continue to instruct
include preparing reports at the end of the
of the centre. Large centres may have
as part of their job. As a manager they have
shift/week, including staff control, food
a team of several managers.
the overall responsibility for the centre and
CHAPTER 2 | jobs directory
Typical work activities
manage staff and their activities while also
control and sales, creating and executing
ensuring adherence to safety regulations
development, and setting budgets and/or
Tasks vary according to the size and
at all times.
agreeing them with senior management.
facilities of the centre or club. There are
The focus of the role may be
Restaurant managers are also likely
also some differences between local
educational, particularly when working
to be responsible for planning and
authority and privately run establishments.
with certain client groups, such as school
coordinating menus.
Common tasks may include designing
pupils, people with special needs or young
Typical front-of-house duties encompass
and promoting activities to meet customer
offenders. Outdoor pursuits activities
coordinating the entire operation of the
demand and generate revenue; advertising
are also offered to corporate groups in
restaurant during scheduled shifts, managing
and promoting the club or centre to
the field of management and personal
staff and providing them with feedback
increase usage, which may include
development and, increasingly, for pleasure
and responding to customer complaints.
commissioning and considering market
and adventure holidays, for both children
Additionally restaurant managers are often
research; and prioritising target activities
and adults.
responsible for ensuring that all employees
and user groups (especially in local
adhere to the company’s uniform standards,
authority centres).
Typical work activities
meeting and greeting customers and
The role may also involve recruiting,
The nature of the work varies depending
organising table reservations and advising
training and supervising staff, including
on the activities offered, the client groups
customers on menu and wine choice.
managing staff rotas; carrying out health
and the employer, but typical activities
Other typical duties involve recruiting,
and safety checks on the equipment
may include managing, recruiting, training
training and motivating staff and organising
and site; and managing maintenance,
and monitoring staff and supporting staff
and supervising the shifts of kitchen, waiting
insurance, repairs and cleaning.
development and ensuring staff adhere to
and cleaning staff.
Other typical duties include maintaining
safety regulations currently laid down by
Housekeeping activities typically include
high levels of customer care, often with a
the Adventure Activities Licensing Authority
maintaining high standards of quality
particular focus on avoiding loss of existing
(AALA). Further duties include ensuring that
control, hygiene, and health and safety,
users, as well as handling complaints and
equipment and facilities are safe and that
checking stock levels and ordering supplies,
incidents, e.g. accidents and emergencies,
guests are instructed in safety procedures
preparing cash drawers and providing petty
theft. Responsibilities may also entail
(and follow them), as well as assessing
cash as required. The role may also require
delivering some fitness training or coaching
risk and acting upon any issues arising
helping in any area of the restaurant when
in sports activities. Additionally, fitness
from this assessment.
circumstances dictate.
centre managers may also be responsible
Outdoor pursuits managers are often
for preparing and checking budgets and
involved in providing instruction in a specialist
generating income; cashing up and keeping
area, such as mountaineering or sailing,
Fitness centre manager
stock records and purchasing equipment and
undertaking courses to keep your own
Fitness centre managers generally work in
supplies. Their typical tasks may also include
qualifications and skills current and planning
centres or clubs that contain a fitness suite
using advanced management information
appropriate programmes of outdoor activities
or gym and changing facilities, and perhaps
(e.g. footfall, popularity of classes by hour)
for groups, usually in liaison with teachers
some or all of the following:
to improve provision and timetables and
or managers of the group.
• swimming pool;
cope with fluctuations in demand, as well
Other typical activities encompass
• sports halls or courts;
as writing monthly or weekly reports and
briefing and debriefing guests before and
142 / 143
Typical work activities
Hospitality, tourism & sport
plans for department sales, profit and staff
after activities and delivering evening lectures
implementing suitable training programmes.
other sports events. Coaches are also
on outdoor activities and related topics,
Whatever the context, coaching involves
typically responsible for planning and
e.g. nature, geography, local history.
developing the participants’ physical and
running programmes of activities for groups
Additional responsibilities may include
psychological fitness and providing the
and/or individuals, as well as transporting
preparing educational resources, dealing with
best possible practical conditions in order
participants to and from training sessions
queries, problems and complaints from guests
to maximise their performance. Coaches
and sports events. They may also be
and recording and reporting accidents. The
must be aware of their ethical and legal
involved in seeking and applying for
role is also likely to entail purchasing, checking,
obligations to their clients.
sponsorship agreements and finding
maintaining and preparing equipment, dealing
Many coaches combine coaching with
appropriate competitions for participants.
with the financial management of the centre,
other, often full-time, jobs. Many sports
Self-employed coaches are likely to
such as paying salaries, costing and invoicing
coaches work part time and unpaid, offering
undertake marketing and promoting of
for courses, and keeping accounts up to date,
their coaching services on a voluntary basis.
their services, as well as planning their
as well as overseeing catering, housekeeping
own work schedule.
and accommodation services.
Typical work activities
There is also likely to be a requirement to
Coaching roles vary hugely according to
oversee the upkeep of the facilities, buildings
context, but typical work activities are likely
Sports development officer
and estate, in addition to regularly assessing
to include performance management and
Sports development officers aim to
and testing equipment for safety and retiring
planning and administration.
provide opportunities for participation
equipment that is no longer fit for purpose.
Performance management duties include
in sport for all sections of the community.
Outdoor pursuits managers may be responsible
evaluating performance and providing suitable
They distribute information and organise
for advertising the centre through promotional
feedback, balancing criticism with positive
sport-related projects, classes, programmes,
literature, the internet and networking
and motivating comments and assessing
coaching, club development and training
opportunities, along with evaluating the work
strengths and weaknesses in a participant’s
for those who want to participate for
of the centre and planning new activities
performance and identifying areas for further
fun and those who are interested in
to meet changing demands. They may also
development. Other likely duties entail
competing at all levels, from local to
experiment with new provision, such as clubs
communicating instructions and commands
national and international.
for children and activities such as quad biking.
using clear, simple language, demonstrating
The central aim is to increase
Bidding for funding from government
an activity by breaking the task down into
participation in sport of all kinds, but
bodies, especially for privately run centres,
a sequence and encouraging participants
sports development officers also address
is another possible element of the role, as
to gain and develop skills, knowledge and
issues of health, crime and social inclusion,
well as monitoring weather conditions and
techniques. Additional responsibilities
often working with organisations such as
offering training in leadership, individual
encompass ensuring that participants train
the NHS, schools, charities, sport national
outdoor pursuits, first aid, etc. Further typical
and perform to a high standard of health and
governing bodies (NGBs) and regeneration
duties include generating income by hiring out
safety at all times, inspiring confidence and
initiatives. They work in partnership with
facilities for other types of activity, e.g. music
developing knowledge and understanding
government bodies to deliver government
groups, study groups, retreats, conferences
of fitness, injury, sports psychology, nutrition
sports initiatives.
and activities such as yoga or tai chi and liaising
and sports science. Other aspects of the role
with national parks, organisations such as the
include working with IT-based resources to
Typical work activities
National Trust, national governing bodies, etc.
monitor and measure performance and acting
The activities that sports development
as a role model, gaining the respect and
officers could become involved with
trust of the people you work with, as well as
include identifying sport, recreation and
Sports coach
liaising with other partners in performance
health initiatives and overseeing strategic
Sports coaches help people participating in
management, such as physiotherapists,
planning and implementation, coordinating,
sports to work towards achieving their full
doctors and nutritionists. There is also a
delivering and promoting relevant activities,
potential. They may support professional
requirement to work to a high legal and
classes and events, often within a specific
sportspeople, sports teams, community
ethical standard at all times, particularly in
community or to targeted groups; and
teams or school groups, working with
relation to issues such as child safeguarding
employing, training, supporting, developing
them closely to improve performance.
and health and safety requirements.
and managing coaches and volunteer staff.
They may also have a role in encouraging
Planning and administration tasks are
Sports development officers are also
underrepresented groups or young people
likely to encompass producing personalised
likely to undertake raising public awareness
to participate in sporting activities.
training programmes, maintaining records
of health and fitness issues and promoting
Sports coaches bring out ability
of participant performance and coordinating
participation in sport, particularly amongst
by identifying needs and planning and
participants’ attendance at meetings and
underrepresented groups.
planning and development, monitoring health
tours to a wide variety of UK and overseas
entail evaluating and monitoring activities
and safety, overseeing the park’s finances
locations. They are responsible for
and projects using performance indicators,
and handling staff appraisals.
ensuring travel arrangements for holiday
maintaining records and producing written
Theme park managers propose and
makers run as smoothly and enjoyably as
reports and attending local, regional and
implement strategies to constantly improve
possible from beginning to end, as well
national meetings and conferences.
customer satisfaction and park development.
as providing them with practical support
The role may also involve checking
Additionally, they may oversee or take sole
throughout the trip. In some companies,
venues and managing facilities, liaising with
responsibility for the marketing of the park
before tours are publicised and booked,
clubs to develop best practice in coaching,
in order to generate business.
tour managers are involved with planning
youth development and issues such as
Theme park managers may also be
tour schedules.
safeguarding to manage clubs effectively
known by other job titles, for example,
Most tour managers work on a self-
and working in partnership with schools
guest experience manager, rides and
employed basis for tour operators, ranging
initiatives to encourage participation in
operations manager or attractions manager.
from international companies to small, special
sport and organise parental involvement.
CHAPTER 2 | jobs directory
Additional typical work activities
interest operators. This is a demanding, but
Responsibilities may typically include
Typical work activities
working with national governing bodies
Theme park sizes vary greatly. In a large
(NGBs) for specific sports in relation to
park, the actual operation and delivery of
Typical work activities
clubs and events, developing a range
‘the product’ is managed by departmental
Typical activities include development
of partnerships with organisations and
or assistant managers and overseen by the
of domestic and international packages
initiatives focused on health education,
theme park manager, while the theme park
by visiting destinations and suggesting
criminal justice and community regeneration
manager in a small park may perform a
interesting travel routes or places of interest,
and maintaining links with county, regional
broader range of functions.
designing flexible tour packages to meet the
and national sporting representatives and
Parks within commercial groups or chains
needs of different clients and exploring and
organisations. Sports development officers
may differ considerably from independent
identifying new business opportunities in a
often undertake to manage resources and
parks. Some theme park managers may
competitive and rapidly changing industry.
a budget, along with identifying potential
also operate hotels as part of their remit.
The role may also entail accompanying
opportunities for external funding.
Work activities vary according to the setting,
groups on various modes of travel,
Working within specific guidelines,
but tasks typically involve planning and
welcoming groups of holidaymakers at their
e.g. equal opportunities, health and safety,
implementing strategies to achieve constant
starting point and helping with passport
child protection, sports development
improvements in visitor and employee
and immigration issues. Other likely duties
officers may offer coaching and supervision
satisfaction, keeping abreast of developments
include checking tickets and other relevant
when appropriate.
in the industry, both internal and external,
documents, seat allocations and any special
A specialised post, such as a disability
such as changes in legislation and overseeing
requirements, in addition to communicating
sports development officer, may also involve
the effective application of health and safety
information on itineraries, destinations and
training and educating coaches, volunteers
regulations and risk assessment to ensure
culture and organising entry to attractions
and facilities staff; experts in disability
a safe environment for park employees and
and transport, such as car hire.
awareness may also be called on, where
the public.
Tour managers are also responsible for
appropriate. The role may involve using
The role also entails setting budgetary
ensuring that the tour is running smoothly for
information and publicity to ensure people
and financial strategies, project-managing
individual members of the group, responding
with disabilities are more aware of the
general park developments, including ride
to questions and offering help with any
sporting opportunities available to them.
design, and liaising with contractors, e.g. for
problems that arise, as well as dealing with
Additional typical tasks include working in
the installation and integration of facilities.
emergencies, such as helping a holidaymaker
partnership with appropriate organisations
Other typical activities include dealing
who is ill or those needing to contact family
to deliver a programme of activities and
with human resources and personnel,
members urgently.
organising sport-specific activities and
understanding local community issues
They liaise with hotels, coach companies,
maintaining inclusivity in sports.
and maintaining a critical oversight of
restaurants and other clients and provide
marketing functions, along with monitoring
advice about facilities, such as sights,
competitors’ activities.
restaurants and shops, at each destination. Other typical duties include writing
A theme park manager is responsible for every
reports and maintaining records, as well
Tour manager
as organising and attending tourism
park. This includes key functions, such as
Tour managers organise and accompany
events, conferences, workshops, seminars
managing the customer experience, strategic
groups of holiday makers on package
and exhibitions.
144 / 145
aspect of the day-to-day running of a theme
Hospitality, tourism & sport
Theme park manager
varied and rewarding role.
Tourism officer
Strategic aspects of the work include
or niche markets, managing budgets and
Tourism officers develop and promote tourism
commissioning and/or producing tourism
maintaining statistical/financial records and
in order to attract visitors and generate
strategies and economic impact studies
selling travel products and tour packages.
significant economic benefits for a particular
for implementation, lobbying the industry
Other typical duties include sourcing
region or site. They often work for local
and government on strategic matters such
products and destinations to meet consumer
authorities, but may also work within other
as quality assessed accommodation and
demands for bespoke travel and sustainable
public sector agencies or private companies.
collation of national/international statistics.
tourism and taking part in familiarisation
The role is varied and may include many
Other typical elements involve devising
visits to new destinations in order to gain
different types of work. Key areas include
and coordinating marketing campaigns,
information on issues and amenities of
marketing, visitor management and the
undertaking market research with members
interest to consumers.
development of tourism products, services
of the public and visitors to particular
The role may also entail liaising with
and facilities. Depending on the level it may
attractions and providing information
travel partners, including airlines and
also involve strategic planning, particularly
on local resources and facilities.
hotels, to manage bookings and schedules,
in local authorities. Economic development
Responsibilities also often include
often one year in advance, dealing with
or urban and rural regeneration is also an
supporting the local tourism industry by
customer enquiries and aiming to meet their
increasingly common part of a tourism role
providing promotional opportunities,
expectations and overseeing the smooth,
and tourism officers, therefore, usually work
encouraging the creation of a tourism
efficient running of the business.
closely with residents and businesses in a
association or similar body and running
While online bookings have opened
local community in order to support the
training courses to foster networking and
up opportunities for home-based self-
local economy.
economic growth in the tourism industry.
employment and can reduce the numbers of staff in retail outlets, the majority of
Typical work activities
managers still deal with staffing issues as
As well as maintaining visitor services
Travel agency manager
a large part of their role. Tasks concerning
and attractions, tourism officers are
Travel agency managers work in retail travel
the management of travel agency staff
usually involved in strategic planning and
outlets which promote and sell holidays
typically involve constantly motivating the
development. Their work involves liaising
and travel-related products. Travel agencies
sales team to hit their targets and ensure
with the public and with local and public
range from small independent businesses
company profitability, meeting regularly
agencies, as well as behind-the-scenes
to large chains. Some specialise in business
with team leaders to give them sales figures
preparation and planning. Typical activities
travel while others have detailed knowledge
and plan how they approach their work and
include producing tourist information,
of specific locations or travel products.
meeting company directors who advise on
including art work, and writing press releases
Responsibilities for managers vary
strategy and finding out about any local
and copy for tourism guides/newsletters as
depending on the size of the organisation
issues and future trends.
well as setting up and attending exhibitions
and the customer base but will usually
Other typical duties include overseeing
and holiday shows. Additional typical duties
include sales development, staff and
the recruitment, selection and retention
encompass organising special and seasonal
financial management, and daily operational
of staff as well as payroll matters and staff
events and festivals, devising and planning
management. Travel agency managers must
training, organising incentives, bonus schemes
tours and arranging itineraries.
be able to offer specialist, professional and
and competitions, communicating with sales
The role is likely to entail liaising with
competitive travel products to meet the
consultants and providing encouragement,
local operators, the media, designers and
demands of the travel market, which includes
help and advice. Travel agency managers may
printers, managing staff, budgets and staff
online bookings and tailor-made trips.
also need to deal with disciplinary matters
training needs and ordering products and
As the larger travel companies close
and customer complaints.
services. Tourism officers also typically provide
more of their high street shops to cut
funding and business advice support, send
costs and focus on online sales, there are
e-newsletters to local businesses, develop
possibilities for independents to fill the gap.
e-tourism platforms, including websites, and construct business databases.
Typical work activities
Other possible duties include writing
All managers are responsible for developing
and presenting reports for committees,
strategies to hit or exceed sales targets,
planning and writing funding applications
regardless of the size of the outlet or
and product development. There is likely to
products offered. Depending on the size
be a requirement to give talks to local parties,
of the company and the specific managerial
community groups and schools, and handle
role, tasks could include promoting and
media enquiries.
marketing the business, sometimes to new
CHAPTER 2 | jobs directory
IT & information services
Overview of the sector in the UK The IT and computing sector is forecast to continue to expand,
and businesses, information technology (IT) is a huge driver of
and to be a key element of business growth. Employment in
growth. Industries that fall under the IT umbrella include:
the sector over the next decade is projected to grow nearly
• computer programming;
five times faster than the UK average.
• computer consultancy;
Many of the largest companies in this sector are
• computer gaming;
organisations that play multiple roles. The sector varies
• computer networking activities;
immensely in occupational scope and breadth, and so do
• computing facilities management;
employers. Over half of IT professionals find roles outside
• data processing;
the IT industry. Other industries that are big employers of
• data hosting activities;
IT professionals include:
• internet service provision;
• financial services;
• telecommunications;
• retail;
• web portals.
• telecommunications – providing mobile services, land
Within these industries, there are many spheres of work
• public sector, which includes local authorities, central
telephony, broadband and ‘video on demand’ services; available to graduates, including: • art and design; • design and development engineering; • electrical and electronic engineering; • financial management;
government and the NHS; • manufacturing – a key user of all aspects of IT, opportunities exist in multinational engineering companies in the oil, pharmaceutical, automotive parts and energy industries; •g ames development.
• human resources management; Many small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the industry
• marketing and PR;
provide a range of specialist services, particularly in consultancy
• operational management;
and technical roles. Common jobs for graduates are software
• project management;
designers and engineers; web developers and producers;
• production management;
computer analysts and programmers; web designers, IT
• strategy and planning.
consultants; and help desk technicians.
146 / 147
• information technologies;
Hospitality, tourism & sport / IT & information services
At the centre of everyday life and found in almost all industries
What’s it like working in the sector?
and technology upgrades are not always a priority. This is
Graduates entering the IT and information services
considered by far the biggest pressing issue for UK IT firms.
sector can expect:
The sector is highly innovative, but also subject to
• a relatively high salary – the average gross salary for
constant technological development. This can present a
an IT professional in 2011 was approximately £37,920.
significant challenge in ensuring businesses and staff are able
The most recent Association of Graduate Recruiters
to adapt to constantly changing technological requirements.
Survey suggested that starting salaries throughout the
The fast-moving nature of parts of the industry and the
sector would be around £26,250 in 2013 for graduates;
continuing growth of the sector means that many employers
• typically long working hours – employers emphasise
are experiencing significant skills demand. Recruiters reported
getting the project done rather than maintaining
difficulties recruiting software developers and programmers
standard 9 to 5 working hours;
and web designers, and found the following skills most likely to
• freelancing and self-employment opportunities – it is not
be in short supply: .NET, ASP.NET, Dynamics, SharePoint, Visual
unusual for graduates to go straight into self-employment,
Basic, Visual Studio, C# and PHP. The sector also reported gaps
particularly in web development or programming.
in sales skills, business skills, higher-level technical skills and sector knowledge.
What are the key issues in the sector?
Data security, privacy and intellectual property issues are
With the current situation in the global economy, business
all important in the sector and businesses spend significant
is operating in a climate of uncertainty, and this makes
resources to deal with current requirements and to be prepared
companies reluctant to make major decisions. Infrastructure
to adapt to a changing legislative landscape.
Graduate jobs
specific tasks, based on the client’s
consists of updating, repairing, modifying
specifications. Activities typically include:
and developing existing software and
establishing a detailed program specification
generic applications.
Applications developer
through discussion with clients, clarifying
Applications developers translate software
what actions it is intended to perform and
requirements into workable programming
breaking down the specification into its
Database administrator
code and maintain and develop programs
simplest elements and translating this logic
A database administrator (DBA) is responsible
for use in business. Most will specialise in a
into a programming language.
for the performance, integrity and security
specific development field, such as computer
Often working as part of a team,
of a database. Additional role requirements
games or e-commerce, and will have in-depth
other typical duties include devising possible
are likely to include planning, development
knowledge of at least one computer language.
solutions to anticipated problems, combining
and troubleshooting. The database approach
Job titles and specific duties may vary
all elements of the program design and
incorporates the following principles:
between organisations but the role usually
testing it, and testing sample data-sets to
• data remains consistent across
involves writing specifications and designing,
check that output from the program works
building, testing, implementing and sometimes
as intended, before installing the program
• data is clearly defined;
supporting applications using programming
into production. Additionally, applications
• users access data concurrently, in a
languages and development tools. Applications
developers react to problems and correct
developers work in a wide range of business
the program as necessary, evaluating and
sectors, including finance and the public sector.
increasing its effectiveness and adapting
recovery control (all data is retrievable
They often work as part of a team with other
it to new requirements, if needed.
in an emergency).
IT professionals, such as software engineers
Responsibilities also often include
and systems analysts, and write programs
conducting user-acceptance testing to ensure
DBA roles are increasingly identified by the
according to their specifications. They may
the program can be used easily, quickly and
databases, the processes they administer
also work on generic products or for individual
accurately, writing detailed documentation
and the capabilities of the database
clients providing bespoke solutions.
for the operation of the program by users and
management system (DBMS) in use.
the database;
form that suits their needs; • there is provision for data security and
computer operators and consulting manuals, Typical work activities
periodicals and technical reports to learn
Typical work activities
The principal function of an applications
new ways to develop programs and maintain
The work of a DBA varies according to the
developer is to make computers perform
existing skills and knowledge. The role also
nature of the employing organisation and
involves either design (including art and
and meet deadlines to ensure that the
post. The work may be pure maintenance or
animation) or programming.
game is completed on time.
it may also involve specialising in database
Games development is a fast-moving,
development. Typical responsibilities
multi-billion pound industry. The making of a
include establishing the needs of users
game from concept to finished product can
and monitoring user access and security
take up to three years and involve teams of up
Geographical information systems officeR
monitoring performance and managing
to 200 professionals. There are many stages,
Geographical information systems (GIS) is a
parameters to provide fast query responses to
including creating and designing a game’s
fast-growing and important part of a number
front-end users, mapping out the conceptual
look and how it plays, animating characters
of businesses. Estimates as to the size of the
design for a planned database in outline and
and objects, creating audio, programming,
geographic information business in the UK
considering both back-end organisation of
localisation, testing and producing.
vary from around £650 million to over £900
data and front-end accessibility for end-users.
The games developer job title covers
million, according to the Association for
Additional duties often involve refining
a broad area of work and there are many
Geographic Information (AGI).
the logical design so that it can be translated
specialisms within the industry. These include
GIS are computerised systems used for
into a specific data model, further refining
quality assurance tester, programmer, with
the collection, storage, analysis, manipulation
the physical design to meet system storage
various specialisms such as network, engine,
and presentation of complex geographical
requirements and installing and testing new
toolchain and artificial intelligence, audio
information, relevant to most sectors of
versions of the DBMS.
engineer, artist, including concept artist,
government and commerce. Previously, this
The role also entails maintaining
animator and 3D modeller, as well
would have been a combination of electronic
data standards, including adherence to
as producer, editor, designer and special
versions of traditional paper maps and social
the Data Protection Act, writing database
effects technician.
and economic data.
CHAPTER 2 | jobs directory
the level of responsibility associated with the
Roles within GIS can vary between
documentation, including data standards,
company and sector. However, all GIS
dictionary (metadata), controlling access
Tasks vary depending on your specialist area
officers are involved in the production
permissions and privileges, and developing,
but may include developing designs and/or
of data and analysis to help plan and
managing and testing back-up and recovery
initial concept designs for games including
deliver services or products in areas such
plans. Other typical responsibilities include
game play, generating game scripts and
as defence, construction, oil, gas, water,
ensuring that storage, archiving, back-up
storyboards and creating the visual aspects
telecoms, electricity, the environment,
and recovery procedures are functioning
of the game at the concept stage.
healthcare, transport planning and
correctly, capacity planning and working
Other elements of the role typically
operation, retail location planning and
closely with IT project managers, database
involve using 2D or 3D modelling and
logistics, insurance and finance. With such
programmers and multimedia programmers.
animation software, such as Maya, at the
a wide range of possible roles available in
DBAs typically communicate regularly
production stage and producing the audio
the public, private and third sectors, there
with technical, applications and operational
features of the game, such as the character
is even the potential to combine a career
staff to ensure database integrity and
voices, music and sound effects.
in GIS with other interests or passions.
security and both commission and install
Additional tasks may include
As the world becomes more mobile,
new applications and customise existing
programming the game using languages
the rise of applications utilising GPS (global
applications in order to make them fit
such as C++ , quality testing games in
positioning systems), such as geotagging
for purpose.
a systematic and thorough way to find
photographs and augmented reality, could
Because of the increasing levels of
problems or bugs and recording precisely
lead to new uses for GIS and opportunities
hacking and the sensitive nature of data
where the problem was discovered,
in the field.
stored, security and disaster recovery have
solving complex technical problems that
become increasingly important aspects of
occur within the game’s production and
Typical work activities
the work.
disseminating knowledge to colleagues,
Due to the wide range of organisations that
clients, publishers and gamers.
use GIS, work activities vary for GIS officers
Typical responsibilities also include
and may include both the collection and
Games developer
understanding complex written information,
the storage, analysis and presentation of
Games developers are involved in the
ideas and instructions, working closely
geographical information.
creation and production of games
with team members to meet the needs
Collection of geographical information
that range from computer, handheld,
of a project and planning resources
includes capturing the location of ‘assets’
console and arcade games to games
and managing both the team and the
such as bridges, street lights, road barriers,
on the internet, mobile phones and other
process. Games developers are required
flood defences and so on using GPS tools in
wireless game applications. Their work
to perform effectively under pressure
the field for private companies, government
148 / 149
Typical work activities
IT & information services
procedures and definitions for the data
agencies and local authorities. The function
in the ICT sector, job titles may vary.
constraints of technology and resource
may also include desk-based data capture
For example, you might be a service
implications in terms of budgets, as well as
(digitising) to convert paper maps to GIS
delivery manager, a functional manager,
the training and recruitment of specialist staff.
datasets, for example, to record the location
or simply a systems manager.
of telecoms cables or water pipelines from original maps.
Typical work activities
IT consultant
Tasks associated with the storage,
Information systems managers are
See Business, Consulting &
analysis and presentation of geographical
responsible for the implementation of
Management section.
information include creating and
technology within an organisation and
maintaining the structures necessary for
direct the work of systems and business
GIS data storage and developing the tools
analysts, computer programmers, support
IT sales professional
for loading/transferring GIS data between
specialists and other computer-related
An IT sales professional’s work falls into the
different systems. The process also requires
workers. The post holder will usually be an
three main areas of pre-sales, sales and post-
the manipulation, analysis and presentation
experienced worker with technical expertise
sales support of hardware and software.
of geographical information by creating
coupled with an understanding of business
The first area involves supporting pre-sales
programs to convert GIS information
and management principles.
activities by giving detailed information
from one format to another, as well as
Duties within the role are ultimately
about technical specifications and the ways
developing internet applications to present
dependent on the employing organisation
in which they could meet a customer’s
GIS data and tools on corporate websites.
and the complexity of its information
needs. This often includes demonstrating
Additional activities include using tools to
systems. Standard activities are likely to
those features before a sale. In some cases
join together different GIS datasets and create
include evaluating user needs and system
it also involves responding to a PQQ (pre-
new information or investigate patterns, e.g.
functionality and ensuring that ICT facilities
qualification questionnaire) and then, if
estimating the number of people potentially
meet these needs, planning, developing and
shortlisted, replying to a more detailed ITT
affected by flooding, using population
implementing the ICT budget, obtaining
(invitation to tender) document.
growth figures and planning information to
competitive prices from suppliers, to ensure
The actual sale involves negotiating a
estimate increasing/decreasing demand for
cost effectiveness and scheduling upgrades
commercial agreement to the benefit of both
school capacity, or calculating the number of
and security backups of hardware and
customer and supplier. Technical support,
potential customers for a new supermarket
software systems.
which follows the sale, may include solving
and predicting buying patterns based on
The role may also involve researching
faults and problems, or maximising the use
socio-economic factors.
and installing new systems, ensuring the
of software features, as well as advising on
Many of the activities are project-based
smooth running of all ICT systems, including
appropriate user training.
and involve working with clients to clarify
anti-virus software, print services and email
the nature and purpose of the information
provision and providing secure access to the
Typical work activities
they require.
network for remote users.
The role requires significant interaction
Typical duties also include ensuring that
with clients, which may be face-to-face
software licensing laws are adhered to,
or over the telephone. Typical activities
Information systems manager
ensuring the security of data from internal
include understanding customers’ diverse,
An information systems manager is
and external attack and managing crisis
specific business needs and applying product
responsible for the computer systems
situations, which may involve complex
knowledge to meet those needs and
within a company, overseeing installation,
technical hardware or software problems.
ensuring quality of service by developing
ensuring back-up systems operate
Information systems managers may
a thorough and detailed knowledge of
effectively, purchasing hardware and
also be responsible for providing users with
technical specifications and other features
software, providing the ICT technology
appropriate support, mentoring and training
of employers’ systems and processes, and
infrastructures for an organisation and
new ICT support staff and keeping up to
then documenting them. Additional likely
contributing to organisational policy
date with the latest technologies.
duties entail identifying and developing new
regarding quality standards and strategic
Companies going through business
business through networking and courtesy
planning. Information systems managers
process re-engineering may well look to
and follow-up calls, cold-calling in order to
work in every size of organisation in the
the information systems manager to deal
create interest in products and services and
industry and the service sector, usually with
with change management. Business process
generate new business leads and arrange
a staff of technicians, programmers and
re-engineering entails re-designing the way
meetings and identifying opportunities for
database administrators reporting to them.
work is done so that the organisation’s goal
further sales and new areas for development
Although the title of information
is met and costs are reduced. This requires
through detailed research of the specific
systems manager is becoming more common
an understanding of the capabilities and
industry or market.
desk operators, technicians, maintenance
Typical outputs include entertainment
preparing and delivering customer
engineers or applications support specialists.
products, such as computer games,
presentations and demonstrations of the
The work is as much about understanding
education and training materials, catalogue
software, articulately and confidently, as
how information systems are used as applying
databases and public information resources
well as marketing and promoting products
technical knowledge related to computer
and advertising and marketing materials.
by writing and designing sales literature
hardware or software.
When the design is complete,
and through attending industry events.
multimedia specialists use authoring Typical work activities
software to arrange the files in a single
awareness and keeping abreast of constantly
IT technical support officers are mainly
program (to enable interactivity and
changing software, hardware systems and
responsible for the smooth running of
navigation through the product content).
peripherals. IT sales professionals typically
computer systems and ensuring users
They also test and adjust the product to
develop effective sales plans utilising sales
get maximum benefits from them.
fix any technical problems, and produce
methodology and provide technical advice to
Individual tasks vary depending on the
documentation describing the creation,
customers on all aspects of the installation
size and structure of the organisation,
content and processes of files.
and use of computer systems and networks,
but may include installing and configuring
both before and after the sale.
computer hardware operating systems and
Typical work activities
Other typical activities encompass
applications, monitoring and maintaining
Multimedia projects involve a number
advising on software features and how
computer systems and networks, as well
of tasks that deliver a mix of media and
they can be applied to assist in a variety of
as troubleshooting system and network
have a computer component to integrate
contexts, such as accounting, manufacturing
problems and diagnosing and solving
them. Software development projects
or other specialist areas, handling hardware
hardware/software faults.
bring together media elements into an
or software problems and faults, and referring
Additional likely duties include talking
application to run on a delivery platform
on to specialist technical colleagues and
staff/clients through a series of actions,
that can support a combination of text,
networking with existing customers in order
either face to face or over the telephone
sound and images of all kinds. The platform
to maintain links and promote additional
to help set up systems or resolve issues,
can also control software within a single
products and upgrades.
responding within agreed time limits to
digital information environment, and covers
Tasks may also include responding
call-outs and prioritising and managing
both on and offline project management
to tender documents, writing proposals,
many open cases at one time.
and production and make up the majority
reports and supporting literature, meeting
The role may also require the IT
of multimedia projects.
sales targets set by managers and contributing
technical support officer to provide
Hardware-oriented projects focus on,
to team targets and providing data to
support, including procedural documentation
for example, specifying, introducing and
team or progress meetings to update
and relevant reports, follow diagrams and
integrating a delivery platform such as
and inform colleagues.
written instructions to repair a fault or set
video-conferencing with a bespoke user
up a system and support the roll-out of
front end for an organisation. Tasks generally
new applications.
include meeting with clients to establish their
IT technical support officer
Other possible activities include setting
expectations and needs, advising clients on
IT technical support officers monitor and
up new users’ accounts and profiles and
what is technically possible and producing
maintain the computer systems and networks
dealing with password issues, as well as
a proposal including, for example, the
of an organisation. They may install and
testing and evaluating new technology
range and scope of the work and realistic
configure computer systems, diagnose
and conducting electrical safety checks on
timescales and costs, as well as working
hardware/software faults and solve technical
computer equipment. Responsibilities may
up design ideas using computer-based
and applications problems, either over the
also include establishing a good working
design packages.
phone or in person. Depending on the size of
relationship with customers and other
Other typical activities entail assembling
the organisation, a technical support officer’s
professionals, e.g., software developers.
a development team and keeping them
role may span one or more areas of expertise.
updated on the project, collaborating
Organisations increasingly rely on
with other specialists, writers, animators,
Multimedia specialist
artists, sound engineers and programmers
operations and decision-making processes.
Multimedia specialists combine design and
and liaising with account managers and
It is therefore usually crucial to ensure the
technical knowledge to create information
technical staff on behalf of the client and,
correct running and maintenance of the
and communication technology (ICT) based
where applicable, ensuring clearance and
IT systems.
products that entertain, educate or inform
copyright. Multimedia specialists may also
IT technical support officers may be
the user. These include CD-ROMs, DVDs
be responsible for authoring files into a
known by other job titles including help
and websites.
single program, testing and adjusting final
150 / 151
computer systems in all areas of their
IT & information services
The role also consists of maintaining
CHAPTER 2 | jobs directory
Additional duties typically include
programs and producing finished design work
investment bank for example, a network
Systems analyst
and presenting final designs to clients.
engineer may have specific responsibility for
A systems analyst designs new IT solutions to
Additional typical tasks include observing
one area of the system. In a small company,
improve business efficiency and productivity.
company policy in terms of producing and
the engineer may be troubleshooter for
The work might be for an external client or
archiving product documentation as well as
almost any IT-related problem that arises.
an internal client (such as a department within
any reports and recommendations, gaining
There are different types of network, such as:
the same organisation).
final sign-off from the client and agreeing on
• LANs – local area networks, linking a
Working closely with the client, analysts
the upgrading of the product or website with
limited area such as a home, office or
examine existing business models and flows
the client.
small group of buildings;
of data, discuss their findings with the
In designing products, multimedia specialists use a variety of tools. Industrystandard computer design packages include Adobe Illustrator, InDesign and Photoshop, Apple Final Cut Pro, Avid audio production
•M ANs – metropolitan area networks, linking
client, and design an appropriate improved
a large area such as a campus or city;
IT solution. They act as the liaison between
• WANs – wide area networks, which link
the client and the developers. They produce
nationally or internationally; • GANs – global area networks, combining
outline designs and costings of new systems, specifying the operations the system will
software, Adobe Director, Adobe Flash and
all of the above with satellite mobile-
perform, and the way data will be viewed
Flash 3D Animator, and Adobe Dreamweaver.
communication technologies.
by the end user, present their design to the client and, once it is approved, work
Using these and other computer packages they are able to incorporate the work of other
The type of network will affect the engineer’s
closely with the client team to implement
specialists, including writers, artists, animators,
responsibilities. Typical tasks usually include
the solution.
film-makers and video producers, programmers
installing, supporting and maintaining new
Job titles in the IT sector are fluid,
and sound engineers, in the final product.
server hardware and software infrastructure,
changing with advances in technology, and
Depending on the complexity of the
managing email, anti-spam and virus
also varying between organisations. It is a
product, the authoring of files into a single
protection and setting up user accounts,
good idea to look at the job description
program may be done by an assistant using
permissions and passwords. Further activities
beneath the job title. For example, analysts
hypertext mark-up language (HTML) or by a
typically consist of monitoring network usage,
may be known as systems or business
software programmer using object-oriented
ensuring the most cost-effective and efficient
analysts. The situation is further complicated
programming languages such as Java or C++.
use of servers and suggesting and providing
by fourth generation languages (4GL) and
IT solutions to business problems.
object-orientated programming, which are
Network engineers are also often
programming languages designed to reduce
Network engineer
responsible for ensuring that all IT equipment
the time and cost of software development.
Network engineers are responsible for
complies with industry standards, analysing
This makes it easier for ‘analysts/developers’
installing, maintaining and supporting
and resolving faults, ranging from a major
to design and modify systems, so traditional
computer communication networks within
system crash to a forgotten password, and
boundaries between systems analysis and
an organisation or between organisations.
undertaking routine preventative measures
programming have eroded and many
Their goal is to ensure the smooth operation of
and implementing, maintaining and
practitioners now regard themselves as
communication networks in order to provide
monitoring network security, particularly
analysts/developers. Overlap with project
maximum performance and availability for
if the network connects to the internet.
management is also common.
their users, such as staff, clients, customers
Other typical duties include providing
and suppliers.
training and technical support for users
Typical work activities
Network engineers may work internally
with varying levels of IT knowledge and
Most systems analysts work with a specific
as part of an organisation’s IT support team
competence, supervising other staff, such
type of IT system, which varies with the type
or externally as part of an IT networking
as help-desk technicians and working closely
of organisation. Work activities also depend
consultancy firm working with a number
with other departments/organisations and
on the size and nature of the organisation, but
of clients. Other job titles used to refer to
collaborating with other IT staff, in addition
typically involve liaising extensively with external
this kind of work include network support,
to planning and implementing future IT
or internal clients, analysing clients’ existing
support engineer, IT support engineer,
developments and undertaking project work.
systems and translating client requirements
helpdesk support, network administrator,
The role may also encompass managing
into highly specified project briefs. Additional
first-line support, second-line support,
the website and keeping internal networks
requirements typically include identifying
security engineer and network architect.
running, as well as monitoring the use of
options for potential solutions and assessing
the web by employees.
them for both technical and business suitability,
Typical work activities
Posts entitled ‘technical support’ usually
drawing up specific proposals for modified or
The work is influenced by the size and type
include responsibility for other IT equipment,
replacement systems and producing project
of the employing organisation. In a large
such as printers and scanners.
feasibility reports.
The role consists of researching
proposals to clients, working closely with
and gathering the information required,
developers and a variety of end users to
understanding the technology and
ensure technical compatibility and user
applications for which documentation is to
satisfaction and ensuring that budgets are
be prepared and gathering and analysing
adhered to and deadlines met.
the information needs of the user.
Additionally, systems analysts are often
There is also a requirement to present
involved in drawing up a testing schedule
the information. Activities include organising
for the complete system, overseeing the
information according to the user’s needs,
implementation of a new system and
writing, editing and presenting information
providing training to its users. Other likely
and commissioning, coordinating or preparing
responsibilities include planning and working
illustrations. Other typical tasks consist of
flexibly to a deadline, writing user manuals
indexing and cataloguing material, as well
and keeping up to date with technical and
as copy-editing.
industry developments.
Part of the role is the need for
CHAPTER 2 | jobs directory
The role may also consist of presenting
administration. This entails working on and managing multiple projects simultaneously
Technical author
and creating work schedules. Further activities
Technical authors are also known as
typically include publicising services and skills
information designers, technical writers
to potential clients and keeping up to date
and technical communicators. They explain
with developments and trends in the industry
technical information in a way that’s easy
and attending training courses.
to understand. This involves interpreting technology or applications and then designing and writing documentation. The information may appear in the form of user guides for software applications, reference manuals, training guides or online advice. Technical authors also provide packages of assistance including software demos and interactive tutorials, in a range of media such as video, illustrations, graphics and PowerPoint. They work in industries including automation, avionics, chemical, defence, finance, government, manufacturing, medical and pharmaceutical supplies, nuclear energy, quality assurance, hardware, software, telecommunications, transport and utilities. Typical work activities industries and employers although typical activities include assessing the audience and the nature of the documentation required, attending planning/briefing meetings and collaborating with developers and managers to clarify technical issues. Additional typical duties consist of liaising with subject matter and working with translators, printers and service providers.
152 / 153
experts and sales and marketing specialists
IT & information services
The work of a technical author varies between
Law
Overview of the sector in the UK The law sector covers a range of services for clients requiring legal assistance. Key areas of practice include banking, finance and property, insolvency, shipping, insurance and employment law. Opportunities are available in private practice, the public sector and, increasingly, in-house in industry and commerce.
audience who can represent clients in higher courts; • Barristers and advocates (Scotland) – act as advocates in court and provide written legal opinions; • Chartered legal executives – fee-earning, qualified lawyers with a role similar to solicitors. They frequently specialise in
Global recession and economic factors have resulted
conveyancing, civil and criminal litigation, family law and probate;
in law firms restructuring, downsizing and in some cases
• Paralegals – support solicitors with legal transactions, mainly in
merging or closing. Further changes within the industry are
an administrative capacity, with varying levels of responsibility.
emerging following the Legal Services Act 2007, enabling law and non-law firms to merge to form alternative business
Many solicitors and barristers, particularly early in their career,
structures. Cuts within the Legal Services Budget have resulted
frequently have to work long, unsocial hours involving evenings
in a reduction in firms offering publicly funded work being
and weekends. Solicitors are usually employed and barristers
awarded contracts, putting greater pressure on the pro bono
are self-employed. Chartered legal executives are now able
and voluntary legal advice sector.
to become partners in law firms, and solicitor advocates can
Legal sector graduate vacancies in 2011 were predicted
represent clients in higher courts without instructing counsel
to rise by 4 per cent compared to 2010 rates (High Fliers
in non-specialist cases.
Graduate Market Survey, 2011). Law is the highest paid graduate job with salaries at an average of £36,000 (AGR
Solicitors
Summer Survey, 2010). This makes law an attractive
• The Law Society of England and Wales recommends that trainee
profession, and competition for training contract places
solicitors earn a minimum salary of £18,590 in central London
is high; almost three times as many applicants as there are
and £16,650 outside London. The Association of Graduate
vacancies (Law Society Annual Statistical report, 2010).
Recruiters (AGR) states that median starting salaries in 2009 were
Key areas of practice affected by the recession include
£37,000 in London. Starting salary and progression depends on
banking, finance and property law. Legal practice growth areas include energy and environmental law, intellectual property law, international law, alternative dispute resolution, insolvency, shipping, insurance and employment law. There has been a rise in niche law firms and emergence of virtual law firms operating on a consultancy basis.
the size of firm and type of work. • The Law Society of Scotland recommends that rates for trainee salaries are £15,965 for a first-year trainee and £19,107 for a second-year trainee. • I n Northern Ireland, apprentices earn between £10,600 and £18,000, depending on the stage of their training (The Law Society of Northern Ireland, 2011).
What’s it like working in the sector? Roles in the sector include:
Barristers
• Solicitors – provide a wide range of legal support and
• I n England and Wales, pupil barristers earn a minimum of
advice to clients. They take instructions and advise on
£10,000 per annum, although some sets pay up to £40,000
necessary courses of legal action;
(The Training Contract and Pupillage Handbook, 2011).
• Solicitor advocate – solicitors with higher rights of
Starting salaries range from £20,000 to £90,000.
are unpaid during their ten-month training period. • Employed bar starting salaries range from £25,000 to
UK legal industry. This is about 0.7 per cent of the total UK working population (Office for National Statistics, 2009). Of these, 150,000 are solicitors with practising certificates and 12,700
£75,000 depending on location, area of practice and
practising barristers (Bar Council 2010).
employer. Salaries can double in ten years’ time (Bar
Over a quarter of private practice firms in England and Wales
Council, 2011).
are located in London, employing around 45 per cent of all private practice solicitors. There are large regional legal centres outside
Ancillary professions
London, for example in Leeds, Manchester and Birmingham, where
Salaries for student legal executives just entering the
national, regional and local firms are based covering all practice areas.
CHAPTER 2 | jobs directory
• In Scotland, intending advocates (known as ‘devils’)
profession range from £14,000 to £22,000 (CILEx, 2011), rising to an average of £35,000 for chartered legal executives,
What are the key issues in the sector?
also known as Fellows of the Chartered Institute of Legal
There continue to be concerns about diversity across the legal
Executives (CILEx). Salary progression will vary depending
sector, but the situation is changing slowly. About 20 per cent
on location, size and specialist area of the firm.
of new trainees with known ethnicity were from black and
Paralegal jobs with higher salaries are usually offered
minority ethnic (BME) groups (Law Society Annual Statistical
to Legal Practice Course (LPC) graduates with at least six
Report, 2010). There is a slightly higher proportion of men than
months’ relevant experience. The average paralegal salary at
women in the sector, particularly among barristers. Since 2000,
the start of 2011 was £21,000, with a typical salary range of
the number of female solicitors holding practising certificates has
£15,000 to £50,000. Around 75 per cent of paralegals tend
risen by 80 per cent.
to earn more than £20,000 and 10 per cent of paralegals
Diversity bursary schemes are available to fund postgraduate
tend to earn more than £35,000 (SalaryTrack, 2011).
law courses and more law firms are offering diversity mentoring
According to figures released by the relevant legal
schemes. In April 2011,the government introduced the social
professional bodies, there are a total of just over 200,000
mobility initiative Opening Doors, Breaking Down Barriers, which
people employed in a professional or ancillary role in the
offers internships to young people from deprived backgrounds.
Graduate jobs
departments or agencies such as the Crown
holding client conferences, preparing
Prosecution Service and the Government
legal arguments, etc.
Legal Service. An increasing number of
Barristers typically advise clients
Barrister
employed barristers work in private and
on matters of law and evidence and the
Barristers (in England and Wales) are specialists
public organisations, such as charities.
strength of their case, represent them in
in advocacy and represent individuals or
Self-employed barristers work in offices
court and present arguments in court,
organisations in court. They are independent
called chambers, and may have their own
examining and cross-examining witnesses.
sources of legal advice and can advise clients
office or share one with other barristers.
The role also entails summing up the
on their case. Generally, barristers are hired by
In Scotland, advocates have a comparable
reasons why the court should support the
solicitors to represent a case in court and only
role and have rights of audience in all
client’s case, drafting legal documents and
become involved once advocacy before a court
Scottish courts.
negotiating settlements.
is needed. They plead the case on behalf of
The area of a barrister’s practice will largely determine the balance and emphasis
members of the public can go directly to a
Work activities depend on a range of
of these activities. For example, the work
barrister to ask for advice and representation
factors, including the area of practice.
of a criminal barrister is likely to involve a lot
in court.
However, barristers are generally involved
of advocacy in court. A family law barrister,
Barristers usually specialise in particular
in taking instruction from clients and their
however, may be representing clients in court
areas of law such as criminal law, chancery
solicitors, understanding and interpreting
in a contact dispute or divorce case, but may
law (estates and trusts), commercial law,
the law and mastering and managing
also be involved in mediation as a way of
entertainment law, sports law and common
legal briefs (cases). Additional typical tasks
avoiding the need to go to court. Barristers
law, which includes family, housing and
include undertaking legal research into
practising chancery/commercial law are
personal injury law.
relevant points of law, writing opinions and
generally in court far less than those in other
Most barristers work on a self-employed
advising solicitors and other professionals
practice areas and instead spend more time
basis, while others work in government
and preparing cases for court, including
undertaking drafting and advisory work.
154 / 155
Typical work activities
Law
the client and the client’s solicitor. However,
Employed barristers undertake
For a junior barrister’s clerk in particular,
using court listings and computer-based
similar activities for one company or
duties may include finding statutory and
diary systems to plan workloads, as well
client. At more senior levels, they may also
case law materials, carrying books, papers
as keeping accounts and arranging the
become involved with the development
and robes to court and delivering urgent
collection of case fees.
of legal policy and strategy. Barristers also
documents to other chambers. Duties may
Another possible activity is discussing
contribute to the collective running and
also entail making travel and accommodation
with junior barristers the areas of law in
management of chambers, particularly
arrangements for barristers when necessary,
which they wish to develop expertise and
with respect to the recruitment of pupils
as well as general administrative duties.
allocating relevant cases to them.
and other tenants.
Other typical activities vary according to the level at which you are working, but
Barrister’s clerk
most appropriate barrister to take the case
Chartered legal executive (England and Wales)
A barrister’s clerk is responsible for
in terms of specialisation, particular abilities,
Chartered legal executives are qualified
running the administration and business
experience and availability while being aware
lawyers, specialising in particular areas of law,
activities of a barrister’s chambers.
of any potential conflict of interest where
with at least five years’ experience working
The role is integral to the success of a
barristers from the same chambers are
under the supervision of a solicitor. This can
set of chambers, both as a legal practice
representing opposing parties.
be either in a legal practice or in the legal
and as a business. Barristers’ clerks must
Barristers’ clerks are usually responsible
department of a private company, or local
be familiar with court procedures and
for negotiating the fees to be charged with
or national government.
etiquette and they also develop an
the instructing solicitor, as well as planning
They have their own client files and, as
expertise in the type of law undertaken
the timetable of a case in detail, taking into
fee-earners in private practice, their work
by their chambers.
account factors such as preparation time,
is charged directly to the client. This is an
This demanding but rewarding role
conferences (i.e. meetings with instructing
important difference between chartered
requires a combination of commercial
solicitors and clients) and estimated number
legal executives and other legal support staff.
acumen, legal knowledge and strong
of days in court. Other duties typically include
The most common specialism areas are:
interpersonal skills. The term ‘clerk’ is
arranging meetings on behalf of the barrister
• conveyancing;
historical and does not accurately reflect
with the instructing solicitor and client to
• civil and criminal litigation;
the level of responsibility, coordination
discuss the case, informing the client’s
• family law;
of workload, marketing and financial
solicitor of progress and, in case of a delay,
• corporate law;
management undertaken. As a result,
renegotiating the agreed timetable of work
• public law.
clerks in some chambers may have other
as required. Additional responsibilities include
job titles, such as practice assistant or
planning the workload of each barrister to
The Institute of Legal Executives received
assistant practice manager. In Scotland,
avoid clashes of court times and referring
a Royal Charter in January 2012 and now
the equivalent role is advocate’s clerk.
cases to more appropriate chambers when
only Fellows of the Chartered Institute of
a lack of specialist expertise could jeopardise
Legal Executives (CILEx) are permitted to
Typical work activities
the outcome of the case. The role may also
call themselves chartered legal executives.
The role is very varied and can range
involve proactively seeking work for the
Prior to this date, Fellows referred to
from basic clerical work to complicated
chambers by keeping in touch with solicitors
themselves simply as legal executives.
fee negotiation. Key areas of activity
and undertaking other marketing activities,
There are currently around 22,000 trainee
cover diary and practice management –
such as holding seminars and hosting events,
and practising members of CILEx, 7,500
all activities relating to the barrister
and running business activities and the
of whom are Fellows and so fully qualified
getting to and from court, as well as
administrative systems of chambers to
chartered lawyers.
fees management – ensuring barristers’
meet quality standards.
There are opportunities throughout
fee invoices are created for the work
Further likely responsibilities include
England and Wales but not Scotland or
they do and are collected.
maintaining awareness of cases that are likely
Northern Ireland, where the role does
Other typical duties include business
to be coming to the chambers, especially
not exist.
development and marketing, which is
major criminal cases, contacting the Crown
carried out by clerks to maintain the
Prosecution Service (CPS) to check whether
Typical work activities
supply of work. Compliance is another
counsel has been arranged and keeping
Duties vary considerably according to
requirement of the role. Clerks need
up to date with specific areas of law and
specialism and managerial responsibilities.
to be aware of the standards that
the specialisms of the barristers within the
However, typical work activities are likely
chambers have to adhere to and the
chambers. Additionally, barristers’ clerks
to involve attending client meetings,
appropriate accreditation.
may be tasked with researching information,
interviewing and advising clients and
may involve discussing with a client the
and most private companies also appoint
In small businesses, other duties
matters to clients. Additional typical tasks
to the role. Positions can be found across
commonly undertaken by company secretaries
include corresponding with, and on behalf
all sectors and in the public sector this role
may include monitoring the administration of
of, clients, as well as negotiating on their
often has the title ‘chartered secretary’ or
the company’s pension scheme, overseeing
behalf. The role also involves analysing,
simply ‘secretary’.
and renewing insurance cover for employees,
researching and summarising legal
equipment and premises and entering into contractual agreements with suppliers and
the preparation of legal documents and
A company secretary’s role covers a wide
customers. Additional typical work activities
drawing up wills and drafting contracts.
variety of functions and these depend, in
entail managing office space and property
Further possible duties include
part, on the company for which they work.
and dealing with personnel administration,
preparing documentation for the
Typical work activities include organising,
as well as overseeing public relations and
conveyancing of property, matrimonial,
preparing agendas for and taking minutes of
aspects of financial management.
probate and/or litigation work, drawing
board meetings and annual general meetings
up wills and drafting contracts and
(AGMs), maintaining statutory books,
issuing writs and tasking summonses.
including registers of members, directors
Licensed conveyancer
Additionally, chartered legal executives
and secretaries and monitoring changes
Licensed conveyancers are property law
are likely to be involved in advising and
in relevant legislation and the regulatory
specialists who work on behalf of clients
preparing documentation on the legal
environment and taking appropriate action.
buying or selling property (houses, flats,
aspects of setting up a new business,
Other typical duties include dealing with
business premises or land). They deal with all
calculating inheritance tax, working out
correspondence, collating information and
the legal matters, administration, finance and
the sums and explaining the terms of wills
writing reports and ensuring decisions made
queries involved in a property transaction.
to beneficiaries and liaising with fellow
are communicated to the relevant company
Conveyancers process and agree
professionals from courts, legal practices,
stakeholders. Company secretaries are also
contracts, transfers, mortgages and leases
banks and accountancy firms.
likely to contribute to meeting discussions
and draw up all the documents that sellers
The role may also entail conducting
as and when required and advise members
and purchasers must sign in the course of
advocacy in county and magistrates’ courts,
of the legal, governance, accounting and
a transaction. They advise clients on the
acting as commissioners for oaths for the
tax implications of proposed policies.
technical content of the documents and
swearing of legal documents and attending
Responsibilities may also include liaising
their financial implications. They may act
court to assist barristers and solicitors with
with external regulators and advisers, such
on behalf of the vendor or the purchaser,
the presentation of cases.
as lawyers and auditors, taking responsibility
and in certain circumstances for both in
Other typical responsibilities include
for the health and safety of employees and
the same transaction.
preparing accounts on behalf of a legal
managing matters related to insurance
practice, keeping up to date with changing
and property. The role may also require
Typical work activities
legislation and filing and indexing paperwork.
developing and overseeing the systems
Tasks involved in the work of a licensed
There may also be a need to assign and
that ensure the company complies with
conveyancer include taking instructions
supervise the work of junior staff.
all applicable codes, in addition to its legal
from clients, sending terms of engagement
and statutory requirements.
and estimates of fees and disbursements,
Companies House, the official
and obtaining or checking Land Registry
Company secretary
government register of UK companies,
documents or title deeds (if the land
Company secretaries are responsible for
provides a useful overview of the general
is unregistered). Additional duties may
ensuring that a company complies with
role of a company secretary, and similar
encompass drafting or checking sales
standard financial and legal practice and
information can be found at gov.uk.
contracts and agreeing terms with the
maintains standards of corporate governance.
The work of a company secretary
conveyancer acting for the other party
Although they are not strictly required to
in a registered company may be more
to the transaction, collating and sending
provide legal advice, company secretaries
specialised than in a smaller private company.
or checking supporting documents and
must have a thorough understanding of the
For example, the liaison role with shareholders
exchanging contracts and completing the
laws that affect their areas of work. They act
and compliance responsibilities may make
transaction. There is also likely to be a
as a point of communication between the
up a major part of the work and may include
requirement to deal with all financial
board of directors and company shareholders,
maintaining the register of shareholders and
aspects of a transaction. If the property
reporting in a timely and accurate manner
monitoring changes in share ownership of
is leasehold, conveyancers need to obtain
on company procedures and developments.
the company, paying dividends and managing
the landlord’s agreement to the sale or
Public limited companies are legally
share option schemes and taking a role in
the change of mortgage and dealing with
required to employ a company secretary
share issues, mergers and takeovers.
apportionments of rent and service charges.
156 / 157
Typical work activities
Law
information, collecting information for
CHAPTER 2 | jobs directory
witnesses and explaining complex legal
Specific tasks for purchase transactions
Typical work activities
and selling residential property, landlord
include carrying out and checking pre-
The nature of the work depends on whether
and tenant agreements, wills and probate,
contract searches by checking whether
the attorney is advising private clients or
matrimonial and family matters, personal
the property is affected by local authority
is employed by a large organisation to
injury claims and criminal litigation.
proposals, leases, easements or covenants,
protect their products but, broadly speaking,
Other typical areas of activity include
mortgages, land tax, susceptibility to flooding
activities include discussing inventions and
commercial work – such as helping new
or subsidence, or liability for unsound building
processes with inventors or manufacturers
enterprises get established, advising on
structures and repairs.
and ascertaining whether they are likely to
complex corporate transactions (including
Other duties typically entail receiving
succeed in being granted patents, as well as
mergers and acquisitions) and business-
and checking mortgage instructions
studying and analysing scientific or technical
related disputes.
from lenders and undertaking specific
documents, including previously granted
The role may also involve protecting
tasks required and preparing transfer and
patents, to assess whether an invention is
the rights of individuals – making sure they
mortgage deeds. The role may also involve
new and innovative.
receive compensation if unfairly treated by
receiving mortgage funds and paying stamp
Additional typical duties involve writing
public or private bodies.
taxes and dealing with the registration of
detailed descriptions of inventions in precise
Solicitors may also use some of their
client and lender with the Land Registry.
legal terms (patent drafts), suggesting
time to represent clients who are unable
Overall, conveyancers spend most
modifications or extensions to the definition
to pay for legal services themselves.
of their time researching information,
of the invention and applying for patents
communicating with clients and others in
from the Intellectual Property Office (IPO)
Typical work activities
person, on the phone, by letter or by email,
and the European Patent Office (EPO), often
Once qualified, solicitors can work in private
completing forms and drafting documents.
presenting complicated technical arguments.
practice, in-house for a commercial or
They seek to protect their clients’ interests
Patent attorneys may also be tasked
industrial organisation, in local or national
at all times, while taking precautions against
with preparing responses to reports from
government or in the court services. Specific
potential fraud and money laundering.
patent examiners, ensuring application and
work activities will vary depending on the
More and more conveyancing tasks are now
renewal deadlines are met and working with
setting. Activities will also depend on the
being done online and most firms use a
solicitors and barristers to defend or enforce
solicitor’s area of specialism and the nature
computerised case-management system.
UK patents. Other possible responsibilities
of the case. However, typical activities can
include conducting litigation in proceedings
include meeting and interviewing clients to
at the EPO or in the Patents County Court,
establish the firm’s suitability to provide the
Patent attorney
advising overseas agents on applications
necessary advice and services, based on the
A patent attorney, or patent agent,
for foreign patent applications and advising
firm’s specialism and likely costs, taking a
assesses whether inventions are new
on whether business activities will infringe
client’s instructions and advising a client on
and innovative and therefore eligible
someone else’s patent rights.
the law and legal issues relating to their case.
to be patented. They work using the
The role may also involve dealing with
Other typical duties entail drafting
disciplines of science, law and language,
assignments of patent when a patent is sold
documents, letters and contracts tailored to
and lead individual inventors or companies
or transferred, as well as keeping up to date
the client’s individual needs. The role may
through the required process to obtain a
with legal developments in the intellectual
also involve negotiating with clients and other
patent and then act to enforce inventors’
property field. Other typical activities include
professionals to secure agreed objectives,
rights if patents are infringed.
advising on other intellectual property rights,
researching and analysing documents
Patents are granted by the government
e.g. designs or trademarks and tutoring and
and case law to ensure the accuracy of
and give inventors the right to prevent
mentoring trainee patent agents.
advice and procedure and supervising the
other parties from using or copying their
implementation of agreements, as well as
invention for up to 20 years. The majority of
coordinating the work of all parties involved.
patent attorneys work in private firms, with
Solicitor
Further likely responsibilities include
the rest employed by large manufacturing
Solicitors provide expert legal support and
corresponding with clients and opposing
organisations across many branches of
advice to clients. They take instructions
solicitors, attending meetings and negotiations
industry or in government departments.
from clients and advise on necessary courses
with opposing parties and acting on behalf of
Patent attorneys are also trained in
of legal action. Clients can be individuals,
clients in disputes and representing them in
intellectual property rights and so are usually
groups, public sector organisations or
court, if necessary.
able to advise on a number of related issues.
private companies.
Solicitors also typically instruct barristers
They also have the same rights as solicitors
Depending on their area of expertise
or specialist advocates to appear in court for
and barristers to conduct litigation and act
solicitors can advise on a range of issues,
the client in complex disputes, prepare papers
as advocates in the Patents County Court.
including personal issues – such as buying
for court and work in a team, sometimes
there are solicitors in other firms, working
to small local businesses. By providing
Additional likely responsibilities include
mainly with clients who are due to appear in
legal support on the registration, use
supervising and delegating work to trainee
the district and sheriff courts.
and exploitation of new and existing
solicitors, paralegals and legal secretaries
Almost all practising solicitors in
trademarks, trademark attorneys ensure
as appropriate.
Scotland carry out many similar activities,
that companies successfully protect the
Further possible tasks include calculating
which typically involve receiving requests
identity and integrity of their brands.
claims for damages, compensation,
for legal advice from current and potential
Trademark attorneys also advise
maintenance, etc. and administrative duties,
clients and deciding on the most appropriate
clients about other intellectual property
for example completing time sheets so that
responses to make, working out what needs
issues, such as copyright and licensing.
charges for work can be calculated, billing
to be done to solve a client’s problems and
clients for work done on their behalf.
offering advice on the law, legal procedures
Typical work activities
There is also likely to be a requirement
and a wide range of associated issues.
Tasks typically involve researching new
to take referrals from other firms of solicitors
Other typical activities include drawing
trademarks, carrying out searches to see
when a conflict of interest arises, or if they
up contracts, leases, wills and other legal
if the proposed trademark is already in use
have no specialist practitioner available.
documents, researching documents and
and advising on trademark availability for
Solicitors are responsible for keeping up
case history to ensure accuracy of advice
use or registration. Other likely activities
to date with changes and developments in
and procedures and dealing with the sale
include advising on design and copyright
the law by reading journals and law reports
and purchase (conveyancing) of land,
issues, overseeing all procedural details
and undertaking a range of continuing
houses and commercial premises and
of trademark registration and managing,
professional development (CPD) activities
with the registration of such transactions.
protecting and enforcing intellectual
throughout their career.
Additional likely responsibilities
property rights, including trademarks,
encompass checking all documentation
patents, copyrights,designs, and the ‘get-
thoroughly before signing and implementing,
up’ of a product i.e. its look or image.
Solicitor (Scotland)
representing clients in tribunals and in
The role may also involve negotiating
Solicitors give legal advice and explain
district and sheriff courts and having
in disputes regarding trademarks, taking
the law to their clients. They advise both
rights of audience in the high courts
action on trademark infringement and
individual and corporate clients on legal
(solicitor-advocates only).
passing off, drawing up appropriate
aspects of their personal and business
The role may also involve instructing
contractual papers and providing back-up
affairs. They act on behalf of their clients,
advocates to provide legal opinions and
to the solicitors and barristers conducting
in court and throughout negotiations,
to represent clients in courts at any level,
a case if it comes to litigation.
as well as preparing and researching
supervising more junior members of the
Additionally, patent attorneys may
documents, letters and other paperwork.
team, depending on level of seniority and
advise clients on the use and protection
Solicitors and advocates in Scotland
coordinating and supervising the work of
of trademarks and the classes of goods
have very similar duties to their counterparts
other staff.
or services they need to cover with their
(solicitors and barristers) in England and
Further possible tasks include keeping up
registration as well as assisting clients
Wales. However, Scotland has its own
to date with changes in the law, and reading
with identifying the nature of their
legal system, procedures and terminology.
journals and attending courses as part of CPD.
intellectual property. Further typical tasks
The Scottish legal profession also has its
CHAPTER 2 | jobs directory
referring cases to the head of department.
include advising on the legal aspects of
own entry and training arrangements.
marketing new goods or services and
Solicitors work in private law firms,
Tax adviser
their introduction into the marketplace,
central and local government, banks and
See Accountancy, Banking & Finance section.
composing letters to clients, the trademark
other commercial organisations.
registry and other parties, and monitoring existing and proposed trademarks. There are also likely to be requirements
Solicitors deal with a wide range of work
Trademark attorneys are specialist legal
to advise clients about countries in which
for a variety of clients. The range of work
professionals qualified to advise clients about
to seek registration, to file applications
available to solicitors in Scotland is vast. Those
protecting and enforcing their trademark
on and to develop working relationships
providing legal services and advice to crofters
rights. Trademarks are used to identify a
with the relevant brand managers and
and craft shops in local communities in the
person’s or company’s products or services
customers of departments. Additional
Highlands belong to the same profession as
and may take many forms, including logos,
activities may include handling renewals.
solicitors in the big city law firms, who count
shapes and company names.
At firm partnership level, the work may
leading Scottish financial institutions among
Trademarks are used by a huge range of
also involve a range of management and
their corporate clients. In these same cities
companies, from multinational corporations
marketing activities.
158 / 159
Trademark attorney
Law
Typical work activities
Marketing, advertising & PR
Overview of the sector in the UK The marketing, advertising and PR sector is a fast-paced
Professionals are often employed in agencies. These agencies
environment and typically recruits graduates who are
can either be specialist, e.g. media buying or digital/online,
excellent communicators, with strong organisational skills
or full-service agencies. The work often includes:
and a creative flair. Graduate opportunities exist throughout
• c reating and managing integrated advertising campaigns;
the UK, particularly in larger cities.
• c lient and supplier liaison;
The industry covers a range of functions from the
•p lanning, research and evaluation;
technical elements of market research to the more creative
•n ew business development;
product/brand development, promotion, media relations,
•d igital roles – creative, design and production.
reputation management, public affairs, direct marketing and sponsorship. Digital roles (creative, design and production)
Public relations is growing in importance as a marketing tool
are increasing significantly.
and is now considered a critical component of the marketing
Marketing budgets, particularly social-media budgets,
mix. Opportunities exist in-house or in consultancies/agencies.
are increasing again as the global recession eases, and
Some consultancies specialise in one sector, e.g. healthcare,
opportunities are available for graduates with exceptional
IT, consumer. Work activities include:
communication skills, organisational skills and creative flair.
• t he management of reputation, with the objective
Marketing can be defined as the intermediary function
of earning understanding and support;
between product development and sales. It is the marketing
• i nteracting with the media;
professional’s job to create, manage and enhance brands.
•w riting and editing;
Many roles are in-house and deal exclusively with one
•p lanning, research and evaluation;
organisation’s marketing – usually incorporating advertising
• e vent management.
and sometimes PR. The work includes: • promotion/sales planning;
Public affairs and lobbying also form part of the PR industry.
• branding;
The work includes persuading policymakers and/or conveying
• media relations;
particular viewpoints to influential people such as MPs.
• product development; • sponsorship;
What’s it like working in the sector?
• d igital marketing;
Many large advertising, direct marketing and full-service agencies
• d irect marketing;
and PR consultancies are based in and around London, as are
• market research.
many in-house marketing and PR roles. However, opportunities exist throughout the whole of the UK, particularly in larger cities
Advertising is a creative and fast-paced industry that uses
such as Birmingham, Bristol, Edinburgh, Leeds and Manchester,
paid-for space in various media outlets to motivate people
although few opportunities exist in rural areas. Large agencies and
to buy products and services or change their attitudes.
PR consultancies are increasingly international in scope. Many are
Advertising involves developing and implementing the
part of a larger media and communications group whose parent
company’s advertising strategy.
company may be based in another country.
can be long and irregular, with some in-house PR roles attracting
agencies, with 161 of these based in London. The Chartered
an ‘out-of-hours’ supplement.
Institute of Public Relations (CIPR) estimates that there are
Networking and socialising with clients in order to build and
approximately 50,000 people working in PR roles. The Chartered maintain relationships is important in agency roles. Around half Institute of Marketing (CIM) estimates that the total number
of employees are aged 30 or under (IPA, Agency Census 2010).
of professionals working in marketing in the UK is 500,000. The industry is fast, exciting, innovative, highly creative
What are the key issues in the sector?
and varied but can also be stressful when having to meet
While there is almost an equal split between males and females
tight deadlines under pressure. Salaries vary considerably,
in the industry as a whole, females currently account for only
depending on the specialism, level of experience and
22.4 per cent of those in an agency management role (Institute
geographical location. For junior roles, salaries tend to be
of Practitioners in Advertising (IPA), Agency Census 2010).
higher in the professional services, financial and business
In advertising, the workforce is predominantly from a
sectors compared with those in the not-for-profit/public
white background (90 per cent). This is an issue the IPA is
sector or small, independent companies. Senior positions
trying to address and is slowly making progress on (IPA, Agency
within agencies can command a high salary. Working hours
Census 2010).
Graduate jobs
duties include working with the account
identify suitable audiences and the best
manager to brief media, creative and
methods of communication.
research staff, and assisting with the
Planners combine market data,
Advertising account executive
formulation of marketing strategies.
qualitative research and product knowledge
Advertising account executives work within
The role may also involve liaising with,
within a brief to enable the creative team
advertising or multi-service agencies, acting
and acting as the link between, the client
to produce advertising ideas that resolve
as a link between clients and the agency.
and advertising agency by maintaining
defined business problems. With increasing
They are responsible for liaising between the
regular contact with both, ensuring that
public awareness of marketing strategies,
client and other agency staff to coordinate
communication flows effectively, as well
a key challenge is to develop innovative
advertising campaigns.
as negotiating with clients and agency
ways to reach consumers.
Advertising account executives
staff about the details of campaigns.
liaise closely with their clients throughout
Advertising account executives may
Typical work activities
campaigns, often on a daily basis. They
also be involved in presenting creative
Typical activities may include liaising
manage administrative and campaign
work to clients for approval or modification,
with clients to identify specific business
work, ensuring that this is all completed on
handling budgets, managing campaign costs,
problems and develop ideas. The role
time and on budget. The role can involve
invoicing clients and writing client reports.
typically involves communicating with
handling up to four client accounts or, in
Additional likely duties include monitoring
colleagues within the agency, such as
larger agencies, just one or two accounts.
the effectiveness of campaigns, undertaking
creatives and account managers, in the
Advertising account executives usually
administration tasks and arranging and
process of developing a campaign, as
report to an account manager.
attending meetings. There may also be a
well as gaining a comprehensive context
requirement to ‘pitch’, along with other agency
for advertising strategies by analysing a
staff, to try to win new business for the agency.
wide range of information in great detail,
Typical work activities
including demographics, socio-economics
to and develop advertising campaigns.
and the market for the client’s product
Advertising account planner
and market share. Additional tasks are
with clients to discuss and identify their
Advertising account planners play a key
likely to include commissioning research
advertising requirements, working with
part in developing advertising campaigns
from outside organisations to inform
agency colleagues to devise an advertising
for a diverse range of products and services.
advertising strategies, using both
campaign that meets the client’s brief
The planner is responsible for writing the
qualitative methods, such as focus groups
and budget and presenting, alongside
formal creative brief and for providing the
and structured interviews, and quantitative
agency colleagues (particularly the
ideal environment for creative development.
methods, such as demographic profiling
account manager), the campaign ideas
Acting as the voice of the consumer within
and questionnaires, and running qualitative
and budget to the client. Other typical
an agency, a planner uses research data to
research groups.
160 / 161
Tasks typically involve meeting and liaising
Marketing, advertising & PR
Advertising account executives contribute
CHAPTER 2 | jobs directory
There are 18,843 people employed at 268 IPA member
Further market research duties may
target audience and required advertising
Copywriters also work with media
encompass using a variety of data to
message, which helps to shape the
planners/buyers and the production
monitor cultural and social trends and
advertising campaign.
department in order to fully develop the
their impact on consumers’ attitudes,
advertising campaign.
behaviour and perceptions, as well as
Typical work activities
researching the product or service to be
The roles of advertising art directors vary
Typical work activities
advertised, which may involve acquiring
according to the agency they work for
Advertising copywriters often handle several
technical or specific knowledge.
and the client brief, but typical activities
client accounts at the same time, making
There is also likely to be a requirement
may include meeting with the account
the job varied and interesting. Typical work
to find an ‘angle’ on a specific product or
management team to discuss the client’s
activities may include liaising with clients
service on which to base an advertising
requirements, gaining an understanding
and interpreting their briefs, working in
campaign, in addition to reconciling the
of the target audience and business
account teams and developing creative ideas
differences between consumers’ current
that the advert is aimed at and working
and concepts, often in partnership with
perceptions of the brand and the way the
closely with the copywriter to generate
the art director. Other typical duties involve
client wishes the brand to be perceived.
creative ideas and concepts to fulfil the
presenting ideas to colleagues and clients,
The role may also involve meeting the
client’s brief.
familiarising themselves with their clients’
client to learn the background to the brand
Additional typical activities involve
products and services, the target audience
and advising on possible approaches or
meeting with the creative director before
and their competitors’ activities and writing
adaptation of approach to the target market.
presenting ideas to clients, pitching ideas
clear, persuasive, original copy, updating
Additional likely responsibilities
to clients and producing sketches or
digital media with snappy, timely content.
include providing the creative team with a
‘storyboards’ (television) or ‘roughs’ or
Copywriters are also likely to be
clearly defined brief that contains concise
‘scamps’ (print) to communicate ideas to
responsible for proofreading copy to check
information on the product, audience and
the client. Advertising art directors are also
spelling and grammar, amending, revising
strategy, so that they can develop creative
likely to be responsible for briefing other
or redeveloping adverts or campaigns in
ideas applicable to the media channels
members of the creative team, commissioning
response to feedback from the creative
that will promote the idea most effectively.
photographers, artists or film-makers to
director, account team or clients, and
Advertising account planners may also be
work on projects, and visiting and assessing
overseeing campaigns through the
responsible for presenting conclusions and
locations for potential shoots.
production stage to completion.
ideas to clients and other agency staff, as
The role may also consist of working on
The role may require working on several
well as analysing and interpreting customer
location, attending meetings at production
campaigns at once, sometimes under pressure
response and sales data to evaluate the
houses and with other directors and working
and often to tight deadlines. Typical duties
effectiveness of the campaign.
in editing suites to oversee the finished
may also include casting actors for TV and
product. There may also be a need to advise
radio work, and listening to voice tapes, as
new creatives and manage new teams on
well as liaising with production companies,
placement with the agency.
photographers, typographers, designers
Advertising art director Advertising art directors, often referred to
and printers.
as ‘creatives’, are responsible for producing
Additionally, copywriters may be tasked
innovative ideas for advertising campaigns
Advertising copywriter
with keeping up to date with popular
in all kinds of media, including television,
Advertising copywriters generally work
culture and trends, as well as monitoring
radio, posters, press and direct mail.
alongside an art director within the creative
the effectiveness of advertising campaigns.
Art directors will also work in digital/
department of an advertising, media or full-
viral marketing, which is a huge growth area.
service agency. They work with client briefs
A copywriter works alongside an art director
to conceive, develop and produce effective
Event organiser
to form a ‘creative team’. Traditionally, the
advertising campaigns.
See Hospitality, Tourism & Sport section.
copywriter produces the words to go with the
The art director deals mainly with the
visuals created by the art director. These roles
visual images of the advertising campaign
are becoming more blurred now though and
while the copywriter provides the verbal
Market researcher
it is likely that both will have an input on the
or written ‘copy’. This may include creating
The work that a market researcher does
visual and verbal content to produce the right
slogans, catchphrases, messages and
helps to inform political, social and economic
look and feel for the advertising campaign.
straplines for printed adverts and leaflets.
decisions made by many organisations and
The advertising art director works
They are also involved in writing text for
businesses. Their primary aim is to collect
on the campaign from the beginning and
web advertising, as well as scripts for radio
and analyse data and information that is
receives details about the client, product,
jingles and TV commercials.
valuable to their clients.
on how to best use research findings, as
the campaign, and collecting and analysing
directly by a company (known as client-side)
well as managing budgets.
sales and consumer data.
and work to collect information for them on
Media buyers are often responsible
customer opinions, investment and marketing
for undertaking research using a wide
decisions. The majority, however, are
Marketing executive
range of specialist media resources, as
employed by marketing agencies that range in
See Charities & Voluntary Work section.
well as analysing the effectiveness of the
size, where they work on numerous projects
campaign and using this data to inform
for different companies and industries.
CHAPTER 2 | jobs directory
Some market researchers are employed
future campaigns. They may also be
Market researchers tend to specialise
Media buyer
involved in working on a range of client
in either quantitative or qualitative research.
Media buyers negotiate, purchase and
accounts at the same time, often juggling
Quantitative research involves working
monitor advertising space and airtime on
various projects and deadlines, in addition
with statistics and percentages and can
behalf of their clients. They aim to reach
to supporting the media manager and
deliver quick results. Qualitative research
the highest number of people in the target
other colleagues.
involves analysing opinions and can provide
audience at the lowest possible cost.
the reasons behind certain percentages.
Buyers generally work in advertising
Qualitative research is a longer process,
and media agencies. They work across
Media planner
sometimes lasting years.
several or all media, including newspapers,
Media planners work within advertising
magazines, posters, internet, television and
agencies or media planning and buying
Typical work activities
cinema. They often work on more than one
agencies. They enable their clients to
The exact type of work carried out by
client account at a time.
maximise the impact of their advertising
market researchers varies according to the
In some full-service agencies, the
campaigns through the use of a range
employer (whether they work client-side
role of media buyer is often combined
of media.
or for an agency), the industry in which
with media planner.
Media planners combine creative thinking with factual analysis to develop
the client is based and the type of research
appropriate strategies to ensure that
activities can include meeting with clients
Media buyers work closely with media
campaigns reach their target audiences as
to negotiate and agree research project,
planners. Typical activities include
effectively as possible. They apply knowledge
liaising with clients and researching a topic.
identifying the target audience for a
of media and communication platforms to
The role is also likely to feature
particular media campaign and deciding
identify the most appropriate mediums for
preparing briefs and commissioning research,
how best to communicate to that audience,
building awareness of a client’s brand.
formulating a plan/proposal and presenting
as well as keeping up to date with industry
Media planners work with the press,
it to the client or senior management and
research figures, including distribution
television, radio and new media, in particular
writing and managing the distribution of
figures (newspapers and magazines) and
the internet, as well as more unusual
surveys and questionnaires. There is also
audience figures (TV and radio). There are
platforms, for example, promotion on the
likely to be a requirement to brief interviewers
also likely to be requirements to monitor
sides of buses and taxis. Some agencies may
and researchers, liaise with and managing
buying strategies, to liaise and build
combine the role of planner with the role of
survey staff and moderate focus groups.
relationships with clients and media sales
media buyer. Media planners may also be
Additional responsibilities can
companies and to negotiate with media
known as communications planners, brand
encompass undertaking ethnographic
sales companies to obtain the best rates
planners or strategists.
research (observing people in their
and most appropriate media spaces in
homes and other environments), as well
online, broadcast and print advertising;
Typical work activities
as conducting qualitative or quantitative
Other typical duties include liaising
Media planners usually work on several
surveys, which may involve field, interview
with media sales people to adjust media
projects at the same time, often for a number
or focus group assessments.
schedules in response to audience figures,
of different clients. Work activities generally
Market researchers typically use
booking individual advertising spots, e.g.
fall into two main areas, preparation and
statistical software to manage and organise
pages, posters, internet banners, broadcast
implementation, with levels of client contact
information. They may also monitor the
adverts, etc. and ensuring that the adverts
increasing with seniority.
progress of research project, analyse and
run accurately so the desired media message
Preparation entails working with the
interpret data to identify patterns and
is seen and heard by consumers.
client and the account team to understand
solutions, including surveys and focus group
The role is also likely to involve
the client’s business objectives and advertising
transcripts and write detailed reports and
client reporting and budget management,
strategy, along with liaising with the creative
present results. Additionally, the role may
including preparing costings for clients and
agency team, clients and consumers to
include advising clients/senior management
producing spending updates throughout
develop media strategies and campaigns.
162 / 163
Typical work activities
Marketing, advertising & PR
being carried out. Typically, however, work
Other typical activities include
with the client to update and report on
making decisions on the best form of
the success of the publicity.
Sales promotion account executive A sales promotion account executive
media for specific clients and campaigns, in addition to undertaking research and
Typical work activities
devises, develops and implements ideas for
analysing data using specialist industry
The work of a PR account executive is
promotional marketing campaigns. They are
resources. There is also likely to be a
likely to vary from day to day, depending
usually involved in all stages of the process,
requirement to identify target audiences,
on the area of PR being specialised in
making sure a campaign runs smoothly.
analyse their characteristics, behaviour
and the portfolio each executive deals
Sales promotion account executives aim
and media habits and present proposals,
with. PR agencies often specialise in
to increase sales or usage of products and
including cost schedules, to clients.
specific industry sectors, such as consumer,
services by providing additional incentives,
The implementation aspect of the
business-to-business (B2B), financial and
targeting consumers and channel-marketing
role includes recommending the most
healthcare. The pace of work and the
partners and a company’s own employees.
appropriate types of media to use, as
depth of detail needed may vary depending
They use a range of strategies including
well as the most effective time spans and
on the type of media being targeted and
competitions, samples and coupons,
locations. Additional tasks involve working
the deadlines it demands. Tasks typically
promotions and point-of-sale displays
with colleagues, other departments and
involve liaising, relationship building and
to encourage increased sales.
media buyers either in-house or in a
networking with colleagues, clients and
specialist agency, making and maintaining
the media.
Typical work activities
good contacts with media owners, such as
Other elements of the role may
Sales promotion account executives are
newspapers, magazines and websites, and
consist of monitoring the media, for
the people responsible for the organisation
managing client relationships in order to
opportunities for clients, working as part
of promotional marketing campaigns.
build respect and trust in your judgement.
of an account team to develop client
They must ensure that the work proceeds
Media planners may also be responsible for
proposals and implement the PR activity,
according to plan, keep everybody involved
proofreading advertisement content before
preparing regular client reports and
in the campaign informed and provide
release, maintaining detailed records and
attending client meetings. PR account
central administrative support to the team.
evaluating the effectiveness of campaigns
executives may also be responsible for
Account executive is the normal
in order to inform the development of
researching, writing and distributing
entry-level position for new graduates.
future campaigns.
press releases to targeted media,
Tasks typically include researching ideas,
promoting news stories and features
clients and markets, liaising with clients,
to the media, known as ‘selling in’
other agency staff and external suppliers
Public affairs consultant
and collating, analysing and evaluating
of goods and services and developing ideas
See Business, Consulting &
media coverage.
for promotional marketing campaigns.
Management section.
The role may also encompass event
The role is also likely to consist of
management, including press conferences
reporting to the account manager, briefing
and promotional events, attending and
other agency staff and attending meetings
Public relations account executive
promoting client events to the media and
and sharing ideas at brainstorming sessions,
assisting with the production of client
then reporting back details of discussions.
Public relations (PR) is the management of
publications, such as in-house magazines.
Sales account executives may also
information between an organisation and
Another typical activity is the commissioning
become involved in writing and proofreading
its public. PR account executives gain
of market research.
promotional marketing copy, monitoring the
exposure for an organisation or individual
There is also likely to be a requirement
progress of work and producing status reports
with their intended audiences through
to coordinate studio or location photography,
and compiling budgets and costing supplies
news items, without advertising.
as well as placing and devising colour
and projects.
A PR account executive works
separations, competitions and advertorials
They are also likely to be responsible for
within a wider team and aims to influence
for clients. Further possible work activities
preparing and checking invoices and bills and
public opinion or behaviour, on behalf
include undertaking research for new business
carrying out a variety of administrative tasks.
of organisations. By generating positive
proposals and presenting to potential new
Additional typical tasks include maintaining
news coverage, achieving product
clients, as well as managing the PR aspect
information on projects and clients.
placement without payment in broadcast,
of a possible crisis situation.
print and new media, and placing spokespeople as commentators, a PR account executive works to promote the
Public relations officer
profile of their clients. They liaise daily
See Charities & Voluntary Work section.
CHAPTER 2 | jobs directory
Media & publishing
Overview of the sector in the UK The media and publishing sector is going through a transitional
occupations were journalists (14.6 per cent), editors (13.7 per
period due to an influx of technology. There are just under one
cent) and authors and writers (9.1 per cent).
million people employed in the UK media industry, according to the UK Commission for Employment and Skills (UKCES).
What’s it like working in the sector?
Opportunities for employment can be found in:
The creative media and entertainment business is dominated
• advertising;
by small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), with two thirds
• animation;
of employers in the industry operating with between two and
• film;
four people. Publishing contains a mixture of large companies
• interactive media;
and SMEs. Graduates entering the media and publishing sector
• radio;
can expect:
• television.
• a creative and dynamic industry combined with deadline-
In contrast, the publishing industry is smaller, with 148,000
• t o earn an average of £18,126 in artistic and literary
and target-driven pressure; people employed in the UK. There are a number of areas you can enter, including: • book publishing; • computer game publishing; • education publishing; • journals and periodical publishing;
occupations and £17,497 as a media professional (journalist, editor, broadcaster), six months after graduation; • a large amount of travel if working in television and film production; • l ong or unsociable hours when approaching deadlines, for example, in late night television and radio production.
• newspaper and magazine publishing;
What are the key issues in the sector?
• software publishing.
Recent advances in technology have prompted a rapid change in the publishing industry. The move from print to digital saw a drop in the number of publishing establishments. Technology-based
you can be involved in. These include: creation and design;
companies have sprung to the fore, most notably Apple, Amazon
distribution and retail; or production.
and Google, with e-reading devices such as the Amazon Kindle
In the publishing sector, as with many other sectors, you
and Apple’s iPad.
can also work in accounting, human resources, marketing
The expansion of digital media has created a need for
and sales. For example, marketing is an influential role in
highly specialised skills, particularly in the visual effects and film
the bookselling industry.
industry. Multi-skilled applicants are much sought after in media
In January 2011 there were 2,190 graduates from UK
for their ability to understand different platforms of technology.
universities working in the publishing industry, according to
Working as a freelancer in the media industry is now
the Destination of Leavers from Higher Education (DHLE)
commonplace, a trend that came about during the recession
survey 2010/11. Of those graduates, the most popular
and looks set to stay.
164 / 165
There are also different stages of the publishing process that
Marketing, advertising & PR / Media & publishing
• mailing list and directory publishing;
Graduate jobs
equipment to record material and appropriate
Typical work activities involve building
editing software to produce complete
up a publisher’s list of titles for a specific
packages for broadcast and preparing
genre, as well as identifying future
Broadcast journalist
and presenting material ‘on air’ for both
markets and new products/titles with
Broadcast journalists are responsible for
pre-recorded and live pieces.
commercial potential.
investigating, gathering and reporting on
The role may also involve identifying
Commissioning editors may also
news and current affairs. They are expected
potential interviewees, briefing them,
research developing market trends on a
to present this information in a fair, balanced
preparing interview questions and conducting
national and international level, identify,
and accurate way through news bulletins,
both live and recorded interviews. Additionally,
create and support projects and authors
documentaries and other factual programmes
broadcast journalists are likely to undertake
and meet with other commissioning editors
for radio, television and online broadcast.
preparing timings for each news item and
and senior editors to discuss new proposals.
Creative Skillset: The Sector Skills
monitoring these during broadcast, as well
Other likely duties include reading and
Council for the Creative Industries defines
as deciding on the running order for bulletins
evaluating book proposals and manuscripts
broadcast journalism as ‘the collection,
and making any necessary changes during
offered by authors and agents, as well as
verification and analysis of events which
broadcast. There may also be a requirement
assessing their suitability for the list.
affect people’. The work of a broadcast
to develop and maintain local contacts and
The role may also include negotiating
journalist shapes people’s perceptions of the
assume a public relations role.
contract terms with authors and agents,
world in which they live and therefore has
Skillset has developed a set of national
liaising with authors and reviewers
a far-reaching impact. Broadcast journalists
occupational standards which details the
throughout the production and maintaining
can fill a number of roles within the media
responsibilities that are expected from
a book publishing programme and
including editor, reporter, presenter/news
broadcast journalists.
monitoring progress throughout the
anchor, producer and correspondent.
publication process. Additional typical activities consist
Typical work activities
Commissioning editor
of organising book launches and signings,
Although exact duties and responsibilities
Commissioning editors identify books or
working with administration, finance,
will vary from role to role and between
media products to publish in order to build
budgets and strategy, and providing
radio, television and the internet, broadcast
up a publisher’s list. They commission work
data and contributing to marketing and
journalists will generally be involved in many
by finding authors or responding to book
sales activities.
of the following duties, on a daily basis:
proposals. Their role is rather like that of
There may also be a requirement
generating ideas for stories/features and
a buyer. They also ensure authors deliver
to manage the ‘back-list’ (titles already
following leads from news agencies, the
typescripts to specification and on time.
published) and to make decisions on
police, the public, press conferences and
The role is most associated with
whether to reprint, revise, make a new
other sources, pitching ideas to editors and
book publishing. In magazine publishing,
edition or put out of print. The job
commissioners and researching and collating
commissioning editors commission writers
may also involve some repetitive tasks,
evidence and information to support a story
to produce articles and features.
especially in junior positions.
using relevant information sources (internet,
This occupation is a mid- to senior-level
archives, databases, etc.).
post requiring suitable experience and ability.
Other typical activities include writing
An initial entrant is likely to be recruited
Editorial assistant
scripts for bulletins, headlines and reports
into a more junior position, such as editorial
Editorial assistants provide assistance in all
which adhere to legal and contractual
assistant, which may then lead on to a career
stages of the publication of books, journals,
guidelines, as well as selecting appropriate
as a commissioning editor.
magazines and a broad range of publicity materials. They support senior editorial staff
locations, pictures and sound and exercising editorial judgement on the best angle to
Typical work activities
in the administration of the commissioning,
approach a story from.
Commissioning editors are involved with a
planning and production of publications.
Broadcast journalists may also be
project at every stage. They are the key link
The level of responsibility and the range
responsible for identifying necessary resources
between the initial proposal for a book or
of tasks vary depending on the size of the
and deploying/managing technical crews for
product and the published work.
organisation and the type of publication.
location shoots, including sound operators
To develop their publisher’s list,
The editorial assistant role is the usual
and camera crew, in addition to providing
commissioning editors research their field in
starting point for careers in editorial work.
directorial input and advising crews on what
order to learn about trends and gaps in the
Progression to more senior roles such as
to film or record.
market. For this purpose, they attend book
features editor or commissioning editor may
Additional likely duties include using
fairs and conferences, conduct internet research be possible once the necessary skills and
portable digital video (DV) cameras and other
and draw up surveys to identify demand.
experience have been acquired.
finished product suitable for broadcasting.
the post-production process and familiarising
Editorial assistants perform a range of
The material may consist of camera footage,
yourself with the style of specific directors.
administrative and editorial tasks necessary
dialogue, sound effects, graphics and
The role may also involve
to get publications published. They act as
special effects. This is a key role in the
experimenting with styles and techniques
the liaison for the many people involved
post-production process and the editor’s
including graphic elements and selecting
in a publication, from the receipt of texts
skill can determine the quality and delivery
the most effective shot of a scene in terms
from authors through to the handover to
of the final product. The editor may be part
of drama, story relevance or continuity.
production staff. Typical activities may include
of a team and they will usually work closely
Additional likely responsibilities include
supporting editorial staff in all activities
with the director to achieve the desired
writing voiceover/commentary and suggesting
leading to publication, including acting
end result.
or selecting music. Freelance film and video
as a personal assistant to commissioning
The majority of film/video editors are
editors also typically negotiate rates of pay
editors and overseeing tasks such as issuing
employed on a freelance basis, working on
and conditions, manage business affairs,
contracts and dealing with royalties.
short-term contracts for post-production
and possibly liaise with an agent.
Other elements of the role are likely
studios, television companies and corporate
The final stage of the process requires
to involve liaising with other in-house
employers. Editors may work on a variety of
the skills of the online editor, who is often
teams, writers, photographers, printers,
productions including feature films, television
employed in a specialist post-production
designers and production staff to negotiate
programmes, music videos, corporate
facility. An online editor is responsible
and monitor timescales for stages in the
training videos or commercials.
for delivering the final product to the
publishing process, as well as dealing with
CHAPTER 2 | jobs directory
Typical work activities
required specifications. Their role is focused on technical aspects such as correcting
to freelance writers, picture researchers,
Digital technology, specialist computer
faulty footage, grading/colouring, and
photographers, stylists and illustrators.
software and high-quality digitisation
adding special effects to finish the film or
Editorial assistants also typically
of sound and pictures have effectively
programme. In lower budget productions
organise and research projects to tight
replaced the traditional manual method
one editor may perform both the offline
deadlines, summarise written material
of cutting film.
and online editing.
and correct manuscripts.
Depending on the product, an editor
They may also be responsible for
may be very involved in creating the narrative,
obtaining rights to use materials from
structure and tone of the programme or film.
Media planner
other publications, dealing with phone
In some situations, they may be given creative
See Marketing, Advertising & PR section.
and email queries, e.g. from writers and
freedom while in others they may be needed
the public and filing, photocopying and
merely to operate the machine. The process
other routine administrative tasks.
of work for an editor involves receiving a
Newspaper journalist
In some areas of editorial work (such
brief, and maybe an outline of footage and/
Newspaper journalists research and write
as for an in-house company publication),
or a shot list, script or screenplay, assembling
stories for national, regional and local press.
the work may also involve writing articles
all raw footage, with camera shots either
As well as news and politics, they report on
and reports, amending articles and collating
recorded or transferred onto video tape in
sports, arts and culture, science and business.
the work of several authors. There may also
preparation for inputting into the computer,
They also cover national and local events,
be a requirement to use specialist electronic
inputting uncut rushes and sound, and
entertainment and human interest stories.
publishing packages.
synchronising and storing them into files
Traditionally, junior reporters write
As your expertise develops, the role may
on the computer.
up stories allocated to them by the news
involve assessing manuscripts and making
Other activities consist of digitally
desk. They pass these to the news editor
recommendations on their publication to
cutting the files to put together the
who in turn hands them to subeditors.
senior editorial staff, responding to copyright
sequence of the film and deciding what is
Other roles include correspondents, who
queries from writers and updating and
usable, creating a ‘rough cut’ (or assembly
are specialists in one field or location, and
rewriting material. Other typical activities
edit) of the programme/film and determining
feature writers, who cover topics in greater
include using your own specialist knowledge
the exact cutting for the next and final stages
depth, often using a more personal style.
to contribute ideas, sourcing freelancers or
and reordering and tweaking the content to
On smaller newspapers many
other authors to produce new materials.
ensure the logical sequencing and smooth
journalists have to multitask; they may
running of the film/video.
work on layout, photography and sub-
Additional tasks may include overseeing
editing as well as stories. Newspaper
Film/video editor
the quality and progress of audio and video
journalism is becoming increasingly ‘multi-
A film or video editor is responsible for
engineering and editing, consulting with the
platform’, making IT, web and broadcast
assembling recorded raw material into a
director, producer and/or client throughout
skills highly valued.
166 / 167
Typical work activities
Media & publishing
the administration of work commissioned
Typical work activities
Like other journalism roles, sub-editing
Additionally, subeditors may be required
Tasks include interviewing people in a range
is demanding and requires constant attention
to adapt all these skills, to create and edit
of different circumstances, building contacts
to detail in a fast-paced working environment.
content for a publication’s website.
to maintain a flow of news, for example with police and emergency services, local
Typical work activities
councils, community groups, health trusts,
To be a good sub, you must be an all-rounder:
Print production planner
press officers from a variety of organisations,
you need to know the law and be able to
A print production planner controls, organises
the general public, etc. and seeking out
put a story together with speed and style.
and monitors the flow of printed materials
and investigating stories via your contacts,
Depending on the nature of employment
in a printing company. They check schedules,
press releases and other media.
and the extent to which production and
confirm product specifications, arrange
Additional activities may consist of
layout work falls within the subeditor’s remit,
adjustments, oversee the work of staff in
attending press conferences and asking
tasks typically involve editing copy, written
the department and monitor the quality of
questions, attending a variety of events,
by reporters or features writers, to remove
the product, ensuring deadlines are met.
such as council meetings, magistrates’
spelling mistakes and grammatical errors
Print production planners liaise with
court proceedings, football matches, talent
and rewriting material so that it flows or
other production departments and customer
contests, etc. and working closely with the
reads better and adheres to the house style
account managers at local, national and
news team, photographers and editor.
of a particular publication.
international levels according to the scale of
Newspaper journalists may be
Additional typical duties consist of
the work in hand. Responsibilities and job
responsible for answering the phones on
ensuring that a story fits a particular word
titles will vary from employer to employer; a
the news desk, reacting to breaking news
count by cutting or expanding material as
print production planner may also be referred
stories and recording interviews and meetings
necessary, writing headlines that capture
to as a print manager, print supervisor,
using shorthand or technical equipment.
the essence of the story or are clever or
production press operations manager or
They are also likely to be required
amusing and writing standfirsts or ‘sells’
production planning co-coordinator.
to produce concise and accurate copy
(brief introductions which sum up the story,
according to the newspaper’s house style,
underneath the headline).
Typical work activities
and to strict deadlines – daily newspapers
Subeditors are typically responsible for
In large companies, production planners work
may have several each day.
liaising with reporters or journalists to clarify
in various stages of the print production cycle.
Other typical tasks include writing short
facts and details about a story, as well as
These stages include administration, where
‘fillers’ to entertain, and researching and
checking facts and stories to ensure they
orders put into a computerised management
writing longer feature articles, sometimes
are accurate, adhere to copyright laws, are
system generate specifications for the product
for subsidiary publications and supplements.
not libellous or go against the publication’s
(there are standard specifications for book
Additional likely responsibilities involve
policy. There may also be a requirement to
plans, or standard magazines and press
creating and uploading news content for
crop photos and decide where to use them
work); origination, where artwork and
the newspaper website and ’live’ online
for best effect.
digital images are designed; and reprographic,
reporting or real-time blogging when
Other typical tasks include writing
where printing plates are produced.
covering important events – a growing area
picture captions, discussing concerns with
Additional steps in the process involve
of work, especially on national newspapers.
editors and proofreading complete pages
print machine rooms/floors, where printing
produced by other subeditors using the main
presses operate; bindery, where products are
basic proofing symbols. Additional duties
bound and finished; and dispatch, where
Press subeditor
may consist of working to a page plan to
products are packaged and distributed.
Press subeditors are journalists working
ensure that the right stories appear in the
In smaller companies, the print
either as employees of national or local
correct place on each page, laying out pages
production planner may take responsibility
newspapers, magazines or online publications,
and, depending on the nature of the role,
for several functions across a range of
or as freelancers. They are responsible for
playing a part in page design.
departments, as well as for obtaining
ensuring that the tone, style and layout of
There is also likely to be a requirement to
materials to fulfil orders. Typical tasks involve
final copy matches the publication’s house
manipulate on-screen copy using appropriate
checking the accuracy and viability of the
style and suits the target market.
software, such as InDesign, as well as to add
product specification, adapting computer
The work involves processing all the
last-minute news stories.
systems to requirements of the work and
copy before it is published to ensure that it is
The role may also encompass keeping
allocating, distributing and checking work
grammatically and factually correct and reads
up to date with sector issues, e.g. by reading
with available staff.
well. Subeditors also lay out the story on the
related publications, editing press releases
Further likely activities include
page, write headings and may be involved
and compiling routine information, such
monitoring and maintaining the quality
with overall page design.
as tables of sports results or financial data.
of the order, improving processes and
Radio producers are responsible for the audio
consist of liaising with customer account
involved in a wide variety of activities and
content of broadcasts via radio, the internet
managers to discuss setbacks in time or
the role may be roughly divided into two:
and other mobile platforms. They are involved
processes, ensuring collaboration between
factual research (checking all the information
in the entire process, from generating ideas
different staff in different departments and
used in making a film is accurate, e.g. period
to managing the audience response after a
keeping contact with customers to ensure
costume and architecture), and picture
programme. Producers manage and work
specifications are carried out. Additional
research (examining archives for film,
with broadcasting assistants, presenters and
responsibilities typically include complying
video and photographic material that is
DJs, engineers and IT staff. They may also be
with health and safety standards and
to be used in documentaries).
responsible for the business and commercial
workplace legislation and recommending
Typical work activities are, therefore,
management of a programme.
changes and improvements.
extremely varied but may include meeting
Producers can work in the publicly
with producers, directors, designers,
funded, commercial or voluntary sectors of
presenters and writers to discuss the
broadcasting. Wherever they work, they are
Programme researcher, broadcasting/film/video
research needs of a programme, generating
part of a digital revolution, which is having
and developing new programme ideas and
a profound impact on the way in which radio
A programme researcher provides support
conveying findings accurately to others in
is produced and accessed.
to the producer and production team.
report form and ‘briefs’.
Researchers contribute ideas for programmes,
The role may also include sourcing and
Typical work activities
source contacts and contributors and collect,
researching facts, figures and information
Specific responsibilities vary from programme
verify and prepare information for film,
using the internet, film and tape archives,
to programme and station to station, and
television and radio productions. A researcher
specialist collections, picture libraries,
producers may sometimes also take on
can work on a wide variety of programmes
museums and government departments.
the roles of presenters or reporters, but
or within one subject area.
Programme researchers are likely to
typical work activities include generating
The work involves organising, planning
be responsible for assessing contributors’
and researching ideas for programmes and
and researching everything that will happen
suitability for the programme, researching
pitching for commission, developing content,
during the programme – who will be
and booking appropriate people
writing material for scripts, bulletins and
interviewed; location; will the film crew fit;
and location and booking resources
links and sourcing potential contributors
does the budget stretch? The researcher has
and facilities.
and interviewees.
a responsibility for fact checking, writing
Additional typical duties include
The role may also involve selecting music
briefs for presenters and ensuring that there
recruiting freelance staff and negotiating
appropriate to the programme, the audience
is adherence to appropriate legislation relating
fees, providing administrative support
and the station, producing pre-production
to the production.
such as typing, answering the phone
briefings for presenters, reporters, technical
The role may also be known as a
and dealing with contracts and briefing
staff and other contributors and managing
specialist, live-footage or picture researcher,
scriptwriters and presenters on topics,
the logistics of getting people, resources and
broadcast assistant or assistant producer.
updating scripts and editing news reports.
equipment together to the right place at the
The job can be seen as an apprenticeship
There may also be a requirement to
right time.
for the producer role and a chance for
source copyright for literary and music
Radio producers may also undertake
ambitious recruits to show their potential.
sources and gain clearance for any materials
editing, interviewing and reporting duties as
used, as well as negotiating broadcasting
necessary, as well as presenting programmes
Typical work activities
rights and producing information and fact
or managing presenters for both pre-recorded
The variety and type of work carried out
sheets for websites.
and recorded output.
by a researcher depends on individual
Further responsibilities are likely to
Additional typical activities include
producers and the companies that employ
consist of providing research to production
checking that copyrights are cleared and
them. Depending on the size and type
staff in a clear, concise format and tracking
understanding media law, converting text,
of employer, researchers may carry out
down film, archive and video tapes, as
graphics, video and audio files into other
specific research-based tasks or their
well as finding interviewees to conduct
formats and contributing to and making use
job might expand into more production-
initial interviews with and getting vox pop
of an archive of audio resources which can
based activities.
responses to current events from members
be re-used. There may also be a requirement
In radio, broadcasters will do elements
of the public.
to respond to audience feedback, referring
of their own programme research, assisted by
Additionally, programme researchers
this on to other departments as necessary,
the producers and researchers. Researchers in
may be involved in directing a small shoot
as well as producing and making use of
radio will contribute to the development of
and carrying out straightforward editing.
user-generated content.
168 / 169
Radio producer
In television and film, researchers may be
Media & publishing
websites that enhance programme delivery.
staff and trainees. The role may also
CHAPTER 2 | jobs directory
cost-efficiency and managing production
Further likely activities include using
production tapes and picking up cast
There is also likely to be a requirement to
technology, such as Radioman, Cool Edit Pro,
members for make-up calls.
maintain and repair sound equipment.
Protools and Adobe Audition, for editing and
Further duties are likely to entail ordering
Post-production activities include
production purposes, in addition to ensuring
stock, making and handing out tea, coffee
integrating (synchronisation) of pre-recorded
that health and safety standards and trade
and lunches and sorting out the kit bags,
audio (dialogue, sound effects and music)
union requirements are met.
for example checking that the camera bag
with visual content and re-recording and
contains all the necessary items.
synchronising audio (post-synching).
Typical responsibilities include writing
Additional typical activities consist of fixing
Runner, broadcasting/film/ video
down shot lists and using maps, tapes and
and balancing speech, effects and music,
clapper boards, and other film and television
as well as creating and altering sound
A runner is an entry-level position, the most
production equipment.
effects for use in films, television, etc.
junior role in the production department
For larger-scale operations, such as
of a broadcast, film or video company.
film productions, sound technicians are usually required to work within sound
act as general assistants and undertake
Sound technician, broadcasting/film/video
whatever basic tasks are required to ensure
Sound technicians are required to assemble,
teams for production and post-production.
the smooth running of the production
operate and maintain the technical equipment
The job of a sound team is essentially to
process. Runners’ general responsibilities
used to record, amplify, enhance, mix or
follow or interpret the instructions of the
include tea making, transporting scripts and
reproduce sound. They identify the sound
director, sound designer or sound supervisor.
hire equipment, taking messages, looking
requirements for a given task or situation and
There are many specialised roles within
after guests and getting everything in place
perform the appropriate actions to produce
sound teams including boom operators,
for shoots.
this sound. Sound technicians of different
sound assistants, dialogue editor, dubbing
This role offers the opportunity to
types are required in a range of industries
mixer, Foley artist, Foley editor, production
gain vital experience and knowledge of
including film, broadcasting (radio or
mixer, sound designer and sound editor.
the production process, offering valuable
television), live performance (theatre, music,
networking opportunities, and is often seen
dance), advertising and audio recordings.
There is no single job description as runners
teams. There are often separate sound
Television/film/video producer
as the first step on the ladder for people Typical work activities
Producers are the main players in the
The specific activities carried out by a sound
television, film and video industries.
Typical work activities
technician vary according to the sector in
A producer will oversee each project
The work of a runner varies widely but
which they are employed. Sound technician
from conception to completion and may
may include fetching and carrying items,
roles can be split into two categories:
also be involved in the marketing and
such as equipment, tapes, cable and scripts,
production, that is, the recording of all sound
distribution processes.
transporting cast, crew and production staff
on set or on location, and post-production,
Producers work closely with directors
between offices, studios and shoot locations
i.e. the balancing, mixing, editing and
and other production staff on the shoot.
and driving cars, vans or trucks between
enhancing of pre-recorded audio.
Increasingly, they need to have directing
locations and around sets.
Production activities include assessing
skills themselves as the producer may also be
Additional activities typically include
the acoustics of the performance area and
the director and may take care of all project
helping set up a location for a shoot,
assembling and operating the necessary
operations. Producers arrange funding for
keeping the set clean and tidy and handing
equipment and consulting with producers
each project and are responsible for keeping
out post and messages to colleagues within
and performers to determine the sound
the production within the allocated budget.
the production team.
requirements. Additional typical duties
Creative input and the level of decision-
The role may also consist of delivering
include selecting, positioning, adjusting
making varies, as this is dependent on the
post to local clients, undertaking basic
and operating the equipment used for
client and the brief.
research, answering the telephone and
amplification and recording, and applying
photocopying and undertaking general
technical knowledge of sound recording
Typical work activities
administrative work.
equipment to achieve the determined
Producers are responsible for facilitating
Runners may also be responsible for
artistic objectives.
a project from beginning to end. They are
taking care of petty cash, looking after
The role may also involve recording
involved in every stage of the television
studio guests and hiring props. Their duties
sound onto digital audio tape or hard disk
programme, film or video, overseeing the
may also include making arrangements for
recorders, monitoring audio signals to detect
project from start to finish, both in the
staff on location, such as booking meeting
sound-quality deviations or malfunctions and
studio and on location. Essentially team
rooms or ordering food, transcribing
anticipating and correcting any problems.
leaders, they are supported by production
aspiring to roles in broadcasting media.
to presenters and guests to ensure timings
writing, and material for the theatre, screen
depending on the size of the project.
are met and the broadcast goes smoothly.
and radio (such as comedy/soap opera scripts,
Tasks include raising funding, reading,
The work is mainly studio-based,
drama productions and documentaries).
researching and assessing ideas and
but may also include outside broadcasts,
Writers may also create the content for
finished scripts and commissioning
depending on the production.
websites or write articles for magazines or
writers or securing the rights to novels,
newspapers. New media is also opening Typical work activities
doors for writers in areas such as mobile
likely to involve building and developing a
These include checking that equipment,
phone content and computer game scripts.
network of contacts, as well as liaising and
e.g. microphones and earpieces, is working
Most writers work freelance and are
discussing projects with financial backers –
before the show, seating the audience (if in
self-employed. They often have to support
projects vary from a small, corporate video
attendance) and referring to floor plans.
themselves through additional types of
costing £500 to a Hollywood feature film
There is also likely to be a requirement
work, such as teaching, lecturing, editing or
at more than £100 million.
to assist guests on the show, relay instructions
other roles in publishing, as well as entirely
Other typical duties include using
from the control room to the studio floor
unrelated jobs outside the writing industry.
computer software packages for
using a talkback system and keep the director
screenwriting, budgeting and scheduling,
and producer informed of action off-camera.
Typical work activities
hiring key staff, including a director and a
Additional activities typically include
Typical activities are likely to include selecting
crew to shoot films or videos, and controlling
assisting in the planning and preparation
subject matter based on personal or public
the budget and allocating resources.
of productions, overseeing the work of other
interest, or commissioned by a publisher
Producers are also typically responsible
departments, such as sound, lighting and
or agent, developing the technical skills
for pulling together all the strands of creative
props and rehearsing live shows.
of writing and maintaining originality and
and practical talent involved in the project
Television floor managers are also
using literary skills to develop themes and
to create a team, maintaining contemporary
typically responsible for giving cues and
storylines, while making characters and
technical skills and organising shooting
time counts to presenters, actors or guests,
plots believable.
schedules – dependent on the type of
organising runners to make the best use
Writers are often required to work
producer and availability of support staff.
of studio time and looking ahead in the
to tight deadlines, especially for theatre,
Additional possible responsibilities
programme schedule to anticipate any
screen and radio, Additional typical
include troubleshooting, supervising the
changes to the set or to see what props
activities include undertaking research,
progress of the project from production
are required later in the show.
including plot-lines, places, themes and
to post-production and holding regular
Further likely responsibilities include
characters, verifying the factual content
meetings with the director to discuss
briefing and looking after those involved
of written work and conducting interviews
characters and scenes. There is also likely
in the programme, managing the audience,
with people.
to be a requirement to act as a sounding
e.g. explaining safety requirements, show
The role is also likely to consist of
board for the director, as well as to bring
timings and what will happen during filming
submitting material for publication in the
the finished production in on budget.
and when the programme will be aired and
required and expected format, rewriting
In theory, the producer deals with all the
dealing with any technical problems.
and adapting material (and sometimes the
practical and political aspects of keeping a
The role may also involve controlling the
work of others) for alternative formats, e.g.
project running smoothly, so that the director
studio and halting production if necessary,
adapting novels for stage or producing an
and the rest of the team can concentrate on
liaising with public relations staff to agree
e-book and ghost writing, i.e. writing for
the creative aspects.
who will be interviewed, for example at
others under the other person’s name.
sports matches, and passing information and
Other typical duties include maintaining
progress reports from live events to studio
an active interest in the specific genre,
Television floor manager
presenters. Additionally, television floor
such as novels, film, TV, radio, exercising
Television floor managers ensure that sets,
managers may be responsible for adhering
self-discipline and time management
props and technical equipment are safe,
to health and safety regulations, e.g. keeping
to organise writing in conjunction with
ready to use and in the right position prior
‘safe areas’ and fire exits clear of equipment.
developing financial management/self-
to filming. They are also responsible for all
employment skills and encouraging and
communications with the audience and any
acting upon critical feedback in the most
Writer
appropriate manner.
in good time. In studio settings, the floor
Writers are involved in the creation and
Writers may need to rewrite and revise
manager is the link between the director (up
development of works of fiction and non-
work following feedback. Another aspect
in the gallery) and the floor below. The floor
fiction. This covers a number of wide and
of the role is liaising with publishers, agents,
manager is responsible for passing on cues
varied forms including poetry, prose, life
script editors, producers and directors.
170 / 171
guests, for example ensuring they are seated
Media & publishing
plays or screenplays. The role is also
CHAPTER 2 | jobs directory
assistants, coordinators and managers,
Property & construction
Overview of the sector in the UK The property industry involves the planning, design and construction, buying and selling, development and management of property. It is the sector where finance and the built environment meet. Recruitment, pay and conditions in the sector are especially dependent on market conditions, which can be difficult and challenging at times. There are often regional variations in the property market and in some areas letting management, repairs and maintenance hold up better than estate agency and surveying. There continues to be a demand for skilled graduates in the property-related professions. In the long term it is likely that there will continue to be a shortage of property, with demand outstripping supply. Construction, on the other hand, covers public and private housing, public buildings such as hospitals and schools, commercial and industrial buildings, and infrastructure such as roads, bridges and power plants. The industry repairs, maintains and refurbishes existing buildings and installs services such
commercial projects and infrastructure work; • c onsultancy – advising clients on the best solutions for their property needs; •d ispute resolution – providing advice and representation in rent reviews, lease renewals and planning disputes; • e nvironment – advising on the environmental implications of all kinds of projects; • e ngineering – structural, mechanical and electrical engineering work; • f acilities management – managing issues relating to buildings, occupiers and services; • i nvestment – the acquisition and disposal of property that is bought as an investment; •p roperty management – the day-to-day management of property, managing clients’ portfolios, finding tenants, arranging repairs and collecting rent; •p lanning – in relation to new or existing buildings, regeneration, renovation, conservation, and major redevelopment schemes;
as power and ventilation in new and existing buildings.
•p roject management – overseeing all activities on property-
What’s it like working in the sector?
•p roperty development – the redevelopment or refurbishment
related projects; The property industry is a diverse sector employing people with a variety of skills, involved in all aspects of property across commercial, industrial, residential and agricultural sectors. There has been a significant shift in the sector, which has seen employment move from construction and property sales to lettings and the social housing sector.
of existing buildings; • s urveying – including a variety of specialist roles such as building, quantity (advising on procurement for construction work) and rural practice; • v aluation – assessing the value of property, land and business assets.
The industry can be divided into the following main areas:
Salaries vary considerably according to the location, sector
• agency – providing advice on the acquisition, development,
and size of the employing organisation. Salaries are normally
letting or disposal of property; • architecture – all aspects of building design;
higher in London and in specific sectors such as consultancy and investment. The average graduate starting salary is
• commercial property – includes offices, shops and warehouses; around £20,000 to 24,000 (plus 10–15 per cent London • construction – projects related to residential housing,
weighting, if appropriate). An element of commission is
The industry is fast-moving – new methods, techniques and
Lower salaries tend to be offered by smaller or regional
technology develop rapidly and legislation is always changing.
companies, local authorities and not-for-profit organisations.
Construction is project-based, and good teamwork, forward
The gap between private and public sector pay has narrowed
planning and organisation skills are essential. Work involves
somewhat over recent years.
collaboration with many specialists across the sector, with clients
The construction industry, on the other hand, employs
and the general public. Most construction workers enjoy the
people with various skill levels, including operatives, skilled
variety the sector offers, as well as being able to get out and
craftspeople, technicians and professionals such as civil
about, and being able to see the finished product of their work.
engineers and surveyors. They are involved in all aspects
Salaries vary widely across the sector depending on
of construction and can be divided into several main areas:
occupation within the sector, size of employer and regional
• planning, design and architecture – working on new
variations. Average graduate starting salaries are around
or existing buildings, regeneration, renovation,
£24,500, with higher salaries offered by international companies
conservation, and major redevelopment schemes;
and consultancies. Lower salaries are found in roles in regional
• civil and structural engineering – covering coastal and marine
and UK-wide contractors and local authorities.
work, environmental, geotechnical, structural, highways,
Many people in the construction industry work a 37-hour
bridges, rail, tunnelling, airports/ports, transport planning,
week, but in certain markets there are opportunities for overtime.
power, water, public health, and risk management;
On major projects working hours are longer, including weekends.
• construction and building services – including construction and project management, design and build, facilities
CHAPTER 2 | jobs directory
common practice in the residential and commercial sectors.
Working conditions vary from office-based roles to on-site work, which can be outside in all weathers.
management, repairs and maintenance, building services What are the key issues in the sector?
management and inspection; • engineering construction – including air, power, water,
The property industry has an older-than-average workforce and
oil, gas and nuclear facilities, chemical process plants
the majority of the property workforce are male.
and infrastructure;
The construction industry aims for a more diverse workforce
• surveying – including building, structural, quantity, rural practice, land, and a variety of specialist surveying roles.
through a range of developments such as the creation of employer diversity policies. Despite these measures, there has been only a marginal increase in the number of women and
Graduates with non-technical degrees can work in areas such
minority ethnic groups employed in construction compared
as HR, finance and contract law with construction companies.
with the early 2000s.
Graduate jobs Architect
of construction professionals, including
and budget of a project, consulting with
surveyors and engineers, producing drawings
other professionals about the design of an
and specifications that the construction team
environment and preparing and presenting
works to.
feasibility reports and design proposals to
Architects work in the construction
the client. The role is also likely to encompass advising the client on the practicality of
new buildings, extensions or alterations
Architects are involved from the earliest
their project, using IT in design and project
to existing buildings, or advising on
stages of a building project, which can
management, specifically using computer-
the restoration and conservation of old
start with developing ideas with the client,
aided design software and keeping within
properties. They can work on individual
establishing budgets, assessing the needs
financial budgets and deadlines.
buildings or on large redevelopment
of the building and its users, and its impact
Other likely duties include producing
schemes, and can be responsible for
within the local environment. They assist
detailed workings, drawings and
the design of the surrounding landscape
with site selection and work closely with
specifications, specifying the nature and
and spaces.
contractors on site, ensuring that works
quality of materials required and preparing
Architects work closely with their client
are carried out to specific standards and
tender applications and presentations.
and users to make sure that projected designs
that, above all, the building is sustainable,
Architects are also typically responsible
match their needs and are functional, safe
functional and aesthetically pleasing.
for negotiating with contractors and other
and economical. They usually control a project
Work activities vary but typically include
professionals, preparing applications for
from start to finish and work with a number
discussing the objectives, requirements
planning and building control departments
172 / 173
Typical work activities
Property & construction
industry and are involved with designing
and preparing tender documents for
Additional typical activities include
conditioning, electrical distribution, water
contracts. Additional activities may include
issuing approval for the work to commence.
supply, sanitation, public health, fire
project-managing and helping to coordinate
Building control surveyors can be employed
protection, safety systems, lifts, escalators,
the work of contractors, controlling a project
by either local authorities or the private
facade engineering and acoustics.
from start to finish and regular site visits to
sector in England and Wales as licensed
With the current emphasis on
check on progress, ensuring that the project
approved inspectors. They inspect the plans
sustainability, building services engineers are
is running on time and to budget.
of the scheme to see that they demonstrate
at the cutting edge of designing, developing
There is also likely to be a requirement
compliance with the building regulations
and managing new technologies that
to resolve problems and issues that arise
and associated legislation.
integrate into existing systems and services.
during construction and to ensure that
Once the work begins, building control
While the role increasingly demands a
the environmental impact of the project
surveyors visit the site at different stages to
multidisciplinary approach, building services
is managed effectively.
ensure that the construction work is being
engineers tend to specialise in electrical
properly carried out. At this stage, the work
engineering, mechanical engineering or
may involve carrying out regular inspections of
public health.
Building control surveyor
the building and building methods, inspecting
Building control surveyors ensure that building
and testing foundations and drainage works
Typical work activities
regulations and other legislation are followed
and taking samples of new building materials
Activities vary according to the specialist area
when houses, offices and other buildings are
and assessing their suitability. Other typical
of work and employer (for example, client/
designed and constructed. These regulations
responsibilities include keeping records of the
end-user, building contractor or engineering
cover areas such as public health, fire safety,
visits made to site and issuing completion
consultancy). However, tasks typically involve
energy conservation and building accessibility.
certificates when the work has been carried
negotiating and developing project contracts
They also check that property alterations,
out satisfactorily.
and agreeing these with clients, if working
including extensions and conversions,
The work also involves liaising and
in consultancy, and putting out tenders,
meet regulations.
communicating with members of the public,
commissioning, organising and assessing
Building control surveyors use their
councillors, construction professionals and
the work of contractors and working with
professional skill and judgment to offer
statutory bodies, e.g. highways, planning
detailed diagrams, plans and drawings.
advice on acceptable solutions to meet
and environmental health departments, as
Other typical duties include using
the statutory requirements of regulations.
well as liaising with special interest groups
specialist computer-aided design (CAD)
On complex projects, they may be involved
such as historic building conservation officers
software and other resources to design the
at the pre-application stage to offer advice
and national heritage organisations.
systems required for the project, managing
on design and safety issues. After the work
Building control surveyors are also
and forecasting spend, using whole-life-cycle
has started, they make site visits at various
typically responsible for calculating the fee
costing techniques, ensuring that work is
stages to ensure that the construction is
to be charged to the client, keeping up to
kept to budget and designing site-specific
being properly carried out.
date with current regulations and legislation,
equipment as required.
and prosecuting builders if non-compliance
Building services engineers may also be
Typical work activities
has occurred, although this is a last resort.
responsible for overseeing and supervising the
Building control surveyors advise and
On more complex projects, the building
installation of building systems and specifying
make judgments on building proposals.
control surveyor may be involved at the
maintenance and operating procedures,
Applications are normally paper-based
pre-application stage to advise applicants
monitoring building systems and processes
forms but they may also be submitted
on design issues and suggest alternatives
and making decisions about expired systems
via email. Generally they examine plans,
that may help to reduce the risk of delays
equipment and the appropriate location of
drawings, specifications and other documents
and save costs. Building control surveyors
new equipment.
submitted for approval to ensure that they
in local government may also be involved
Additional likely responsibilities include
comply with building regulations, using
in approving demolitions and carrying out
liaising closely with other professionals,
practical guidance set out in the approved
surveys of potentially dangerous buildings.
including structural engineers, builders,
documents published by the Department
architects and surveyors, and in-house
for Communities and Local Government.
project teams, attending a range of project
At this stage, the work may involve asking
Building services engineer
group and technical meetings and ensuring
the client for further details, advising
Building services engineers design, install
that the design and maintenance of building
applicants on changes to ensure the
and maintain the services in a new or
systems meets legislative and health and
legal requirements are met and issuing
existing building. These services include
safety requirements.
conditional approval, subject to other
all equipment and materials involved
There is also likely to be a requirement
steps being included in the process.
with heating, lighting, ventilation, air-
to advise clients and architects on energy use
The role is also likely to consist of using
sites, aiming to minimise the environmental
information technology systems such as CAD
impact and reduce the carbon footprint, as
or GIS (geographical information systems),
well as work on a variety of projects within
attending and presenting at planning boards
a short period of time.
and appeals and at public inquiries and keeping up to date with legislation associated with land use. Other typical responsibilities
Engineering geologist
include promoting environmental education
See Energy & Utilities section.
and awareness and helping disadvantaged
CHAPTER 2 | jobs directory
and conservation in a range of buildings and
groups express their opinions about planning issues and proposals, as well as visiting sites
Town planner
to assess the effects of proposals on people
Planners are involved in making long- and
or the environment.
short-term decisions about the management
The role may also consist of scheduling
and development of cities, town, villages
available resources to meet planning targets
and the countryside. They aim to balance
and writing reports, often of a complex
the conflicting demands of housing, industrial
nature, which make recommendations or
development, agriculture, recreation,
explain detailed regulations. These reports
transport and the environment, in order to
may be for a range of groups, from borough
allow appropriate development to take place.
councils to regional assemblies, or members
Planners are at the heart of regeneration
of the public.
within towns and cities, taking into account the often competing views of business and local communities. In rural areas, they must ensure that development is sustainable and that the right balance of development is achieved to preserve the countryside. The work of planners also makes a positive contribution to tackling the effects of climate change. Typical work activities Planning is a broad area of work that requires many different skills. Some planners specialise in a particular area of work, such as protecting the historical environment or urban design, while others work across a variety of areas. In general, key planning activities include developing creative and original planning solutions to satisfy all parties, consulting with stakeholders and other interested parties and negotiating with as surveyors and architects, and assessing planning applications and enforcing and monitoring outcomes as necessary. Planners may also be involved in researching and designing planning policies to guide development, researching and analysing data to help inform strategic housing provision and designing layouts and drafting design statements.
174 / 175
developments, such as increases in affordable
Property & construction
developers and other professionals, such
Public sector
Overview of the sector in the UK The public sector employs around 5.6 million people and has opportunities across the UK. The majority of jobs in the
•M inistry of Justice – data protection, marriage and civil partnership, youth offending and the coroners office.
public sector will fall under the responsibility of one of the major government departments:
In addition to central government departments, executive
• Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS) –
agencies are part of the sector and deliver services on behalf
environmental and product safety, innovation and skills
of departments. For example, Jobcentre Plus is an agency
(including higher education) and consumer protection;
managed by the Department of Work and Pensions.
• Department of Culture, Media and Sport – monuments
Non-departmental public bodies (NDPBs) work
and statues, gambling and licensing, and major
independently of government departments but are accountable
sporting events;
to ministers. Employees of NDPBs are not normally civil servants,
• Department of Energy and Climate Change – energy efficiency and radioactive contamination; • Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs –
and their role may be executive, for example the Student Loans Company, or advisory, such as the Council for Science and Technology.
sites of specific interest, pollution, food safety, animal
You can also work in local government, which is
care and pest control;
responsible for issues such as housing, planning, leisure
• Department for Education – safeguarding children, the curriculum, teacher training, adoption and fostering; • Department of Health – healthcare trusts, controlled drugs, community care and care of persons with a disability; • Department of Transport – rail and waterways,
services and refuse collection. It works closely with central government departments on major issues including education and social services. There is also the Welsh Assembly government, the Scottish government and the Northern Ireland Assembly.
highways, public transport, Transport for London
Devolved UK governments work closely with the UK central
and traffic management;
government but also have direct jurisdiction over major
• Department of Work and Pensions – child support,
issues such as education, health and the environment.
benefits, social security, explosions and hazards;
The armed forces and emergency services are also
• Food Standards Agency – fish sustainability, hygiene
major employers in the public sector.
and food labelling; • HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) – income tax, money laundering, and value-added tax (VAT); • Home Office – immigration and border control, police and national security;
What’s it like working in the sector? The range of work is diverse and working conditions reflect this. It is possible to work a typical 9 to 5 day in a deskbased role, while it is also possible to be working outdoors,
What are the key issues in the sector?
within the UK and beyond.
The public sector has historically been recognised as offering
Graduates entering the public sector can expect starting
extensive training, good equal opportunities policies and
salaries to vary depending on the job role and department,
great benefits and pensions. However, public sector cutbacks
for example:
have led to a reduction in the number of roles available and
• environmental health officers in local government usually
the removal of some work-related benefits.
earn £24,700 to £35,400;
The Autumn Statement in November 2011 set out plans
• qualified youth offending team officers in local government can expect to earn £20,500 to £29,000;
for an average of a 1 per cent pay increase for two years. This followed the pay freeze that was placed on public sector
• starting graduate salaries for the Civil Service Fast Stream
workers for two years from June 2010. This was set for all
are from £25,000 to £27,000, with the potential to rise
public sector staff paid the full-time equivalent of more than
to around £45,000 after five years.
£21,000 a year.
Graduate jobs
CHAPTER 2 | jobs directory
do irregular, unsociable hours or make frequent journeys
civil servants, members of the public
Counsellor
or other organisations. Other typical
See Health & Social Care section.
activities consist of interpreting and
Advice worker
applying complex written information
See Charities & Voluntary Work section.
relating to policies and procedures, managing and working efficiently
Government social research officer
with resources, often on a limited
Government social research officers
Civil Service administrator
budget and taking an impartial interest
provide research input for the analysis
The role of Civil Service administrator is
in economic and political issues.
required to develop, implement, review
quite broad and can cover a wide range
The role also typically involves using
and evaluate new and existing government
of tasks and responsibilities. The Civil
communication skills, both oral and written,
policies. This research evidence helps
Service is made up of a large number of
to explain often complex information to
inform the policy decisions of ministers.
different departments, which implement
colleagues and members of the public,
Government social research officers
government policies and deliver services
achieving and delivering results within
account for more than 1,000 members of
to the public. As an administrator you
deadlines and working quickly and under
the workforce, spread over 20 government
would contribute to the delivery of
pressure, often according to complex rules
departments. They liaise closely with civil
these services through duties such as
and procedures.
servants and other government analysts,
research, compiling reports, working
Civil service administrators may also
such as operational researchers, economists
on policy documents.
be responsible for producing high-quality
and statisticians.
The Civil Service is a significant employer,
materials and reports, researching and
The role involves responsibility for
comprising departments, agencies and non-
carrying out analysis relating to particular
the research and analysis of policy, as
departmental government bodies (NDPBs),
areas of economic or political interest,
well as commissioning and managing
and employing just under half a million
providing evidence, based on research, and
research. It is a challenging, fast-moving
people, approximately one quarter of which
delivering findings to senior staff members,
and diverse role that has a direct impact
work in London or the South East, with the
which may eventually feed into future
on many government activities, often at
remaining three-quarters spread throughout
policy work.
a high-profile level.
the UK.
Research officers are also employed by local authorities.
Civil Service fast streamer
The tasks involved vary greatly
See Business, Consulting &
Typical work activities
according to the department in which
Management section.
Job activities vary significantly according
an administrator is based, but are likely
to department and policy area and
to include helping to formulate and
whether research is conducted in-house
Community education officer
or commissioned from external researchers.
excellent customer-service skills to deal
See Charities & Voluntary
Tasks are likely to include working on a wide
with service users, for example, other
Work section.
range of research projects and employing a
176 / 177
implement policies, as well as using
Public sector
Typical work activities
range of different research methodologies
airports and via the Channel Tunnel. As well
or attempted to enter the UK in breach of
(if undertaking research internally), discussing
as examining documentation, they may
immigration law, and writing and presenting
and agreeing project requirements with
gather intelligence, do case work and, where
case study reports and statistics.
clients (policy officials, ministers) and drafting
necessary, use legal powers to detain or
research specifications.
remove illegal entrants to the UK.
Other typical duties include agreeing
Immigration officers work for the UK
Intelligence analyst/officer
the terms of reference for research,
Border Agency (UKBA), an executive agency
Intelligence analysts work primarily for the
commissioning and project-managing
of the Home Office, which aims to provide
public sector, including the armed forces
research projects and commenting on draft
high-quality and non-discriminatory entry
and police. They also have significant roles
research instruments, such as questionnaires,
controls to the UK in accordance with
in the UK’s three intelligence and security
and editing draft reports.
immigration law, service standards and
agencies, where intelligence analysts work
Government social research officers
the UK’s international obligations and
in the acquisition, evaluation, analysis and
may also be responsible for conducting,
the changing needs of the economy.
assessment of secret intelligence. Government Communications
or commissioning then analysing, in-depth interviews with members of the public and
Typical work activities
Headquarters (GCHQ) describes them as
large-scale data sets, managing junior staff
The work of an immigration officer can
intelligence analysts, the Security Service
(supervising, encouraging and mentoring) and
be varied and the specific duties of each
(MI5) calls them intelligence officers and
ensuring that research is conducted within a
day depend on the particular passengers
the Secret Intelligence Service (MI6) uses
set time frame to meet policy requirements.
travelling through the ports of entry.
the phrase operational officers (further
In addition, the role may encompass
Generally duties include examining passports
subdivided by MI6 into case officers,
managing competitive tendering exercises,
and recognising forged documentation (this
targeting officers and reports officers).
ensuring quality control of research and
requires excellent observational skills and
Intelligence sources include signals
providing information and analysis on a
an understanding of forgery techniques),
intelligence (SIGINT) and human intelligence
policy issue and its development.
as well as conducting personal interviews
(HUMINT) although many different sources
Further typical responsibilities include
with travellers (working through interpreters
and analytical techniques are used.
providing information on what research is
where necessary) and objectively evaluating
Intelligence analysts work to protect UK
already available in a policy area, working
the information presented.
national security and economic well-being
in close partnership with external research
Other typical duties consist of
as well as to detect and prevent serious
contractors, other government analysts, and
keeping up to date with changes in
organised crime (such as drug trafficking).
policy colleagues during the course of the
legislation and current affairs, applying
Working to government requirements
research and producing both written and
immigration legislation, rules and
and priorities, intelligence analysts may be
oral briefs for policy colleagues and ministers,
policy, communicating with various
involved in providing support to military
based on reviews of research evidence.
agencies, including intelligence units,
operations, detecting and preventing the
There may also be a requirement to
the police, benefits agencies, and helping
proliferation of weapons of mass destruction
respond to external and internal research
to organise surveillance. There may also
(chemical, biological, radiological and
enquiries from colleagues, government
be a requirement to carry out intelligence-
nuclear), as well as counter-espionage
departments, academics, local councils,
based activities and use knowledge of
and counter-terrorism.
regional development agencies and members
national and international intelligence.
of the public, as well as to explain complex
Additionally, the role may encompass
Typical work activities
ideas and findings in a way that can be easily
undertaking, with police assistance,
The occupation of an intelligence analyst
understood. Additionally, typical duties consist
immigration visits to identify people with
covers a diverse range of activities,
of keeping up to date with developments in
no authority to remain in the UK, along with
dependent on the organisation’s remit and
policy and social issues, as well as qualitative
deciding on the entry rights of individuals
individual’s role within a team. Each role
and quantitative research methods, along
and, where applicable, refusing entry.
calls for its own precise mix of skills and
with delivering presentations at conferences.
Immigration officers may also be
abilities. They may differ greatly in the police,
responsible for deciding on whether
for example, compared to the intelligence
individuals who have been refused entry may
and security agencies. Typical work
Immigration officer
be placed in temporary accommodation in the
activities may, however, include building up
Immigration officers deal with the control
UK, and making appropriate arrangements,
intelligence pictures, identifying potential
of people entering the UK via its borders.
including liaising with and working alongside
agents and targets, in addition to collating
Working in passport control, they are
housing authorities. Their responsibilities
and validating intelligence and evaluating
responsible for checking the right of entry to
may also include making arrangements for
the reliability of sources and credibility
the UK of all individuals arriving at seaports,
the removal of those who have entered
of information. The role may also involve
Politicians’ assistants provide administrative,
Intelligence officers may also be
others may have a more technical function,
secretarial, research, constituency,
responsible for delivering information
and some will work predominantly with
parliamentary and publicity support for
in formal reports or as presentations and
other council staff and departments.
elected politicians, who may be Members
desk-level briefings to customers in
Typical activities will include assisting
of Parliament (MPs), Members of the Scottish
government, who include the Ministry
in the formulation, planning and monitoring
Parliament (MSPs), Members of the Welsh
of Defence (MoD), the Foreign and
of policies and procedures, coordinating
or Northern Ireland Assembly, or Members
Commonwealth Office (FCO), the Home
the implementation of council/authority
of the European Parliament (MEPs).
Office, the Serious Organised Crime
decisions and circulating reports to those
Politicians’ assistants may also be
Agency (SOCA) and HM Revenue &
affected, and providing support and
referred to as parliamentary or constituency
Customs (HMRC) among others and
guidance to the democratic structure, for
assistants (depending on where they are
developing expertise in a specific area.
example to Cabinet or local committees.
based), personal assistants (PAs), research
Other typical duties include liaising
Other duties may consist of
assistants, case workers or executive
and collaborating with colleagues in
coordinating communication strategies,
secretaries. Although job titles and locations
the UK’s three intelligence and security
including publications and departmental
vary, the basic task is to do whatever behind-
agencies to get further information
websites, arranging and servicing meetings,
the-scenes work is necessary to enable
which may help to piece together the
and researching, preparing and writing
members to represent their constituents.
whole picture.
up reports and briefing paper.
Politicians generally have between one
Colleagues may include librarians (open
The role may also involve liaising with
and three assistants.
source/public domain information specialists),
other council departments, such as finance
cryptanalysts and mathematicians (codes and
or marketing, liaising with external partners
Typical work activities
ciphers) as well as linguists.
and agencies, including private and voluntary
Although tasks vary depending on whether
sector organisations, contractors and other
an assistant is based in the local constituency
local councils/authorities, and coordinating
office or parliament (London, Belfast, Cardiff,
Local government officer
departmental and corporate plans.
Edinburgh, Brussels or Strasbourg), typical
Local government officers are responsible
There is also likely to be a requirement
work activities may include responding
for assisting in the development of council
to monitor and report on performance and
to enquiries from constituents (known as
policies and procedures and ensure they
quality issues, ensuring value for money, as
progressing casework), other politicians,
are put into practice, making sure that
well as managing and evaluating projects.
the media, lobbyists and pressure groups.
local services are delivered effectively.
Additionally, local government officers
Other activities may consist of secretarial
Local government officer is a diverse
may be responsible for coordinating and
duties, such as managing the politician’s
and wide-ranging profession that covers
collecting data for external inspections,
diary, making travel arrangements and taking
a breadth of officer roles, with many
including evidence of compliance with
minutes at meetings, as well as administrative
specialist areas, including housing, finance,
legislation, providing information, advice
duties, filing, ordering stationery, responding
human resources, education, planning,
and guidance on policy and performance
to correspondence and updating databases.
transport, tourism, libraries, leisure and
and working with members of the public,
The role may also involve carrying
recreation, regeneration, social work,
councillors and other stakeholders, presenting
out research into local, regional, national
health and IT.
information at meetings when required.
and international issues as required, and
Working in local government is
Other likely duties include dealing with
ensuring the politician is made aware of
likely to involve contact with the public,
enquiries and giving advice, supervising
any relevant matters, developing knowledge
councillors, administrators and specialists in
and managing staff and managing
on specialist areas and arranging surgeries
other departments or other local councils/
budgets and funding. Typical responsibilities
for constituents and offering support on
authorities. Some posts, particularly more
may also consist of providing support
the day.
senior roles, will also involve committee
and a strategic steer to the management
Politicians’ assistants may also be
work. Some less senior roles will work more
team relevant to your specific area along
responsible for writing press releases,
exclusively within specific departments,
with developing and promoting a policy
newsletters and mailshots to promote the
but can still be responsible for a wide
and performance framework, which
work of the politician and keep constituents
range of services.
contributes to the operational and strategic
and interested parties informed, monitoring
functioning of the department, as well as
and arranging media coverage and assisting
Typical work activities
coordinating responses to national and
with campaigns before and during elections.
Specific activities vary depending on the
local consultations on specific policy areas,
There is likely to be a requirement to keep
local authority and department, and also on
such as education.
up to date with current affairs, attend public
178 / 179
Politician’s assistant
will involve a lot of work with the public,
Public sector
the level of responsibility. Some departments
understand their intelligence requirements.
CHAPTER 2 | jobs directory
developing relationships with customers to
and private functions to assist the politician –
decide what sentence should be passed, as
advising on consumer law and investigating
sometimes standing in when the politician
well as carrying out risk assessments in order
complaints but can also be employed in
is unable to attend – and to help write
to protect the public from further possible
private advisory positions.
speeches by researching information and
offending. Other typical duties include
TSOs are also involved in preventing,
making suggestions on content.
managing and enforcing community orders
detecting and prosecuting offences.
Additional typical tasks consist of
made by the courts, ensuring offenders
They liaise with agencies including the
liaising with members of government
attend supervision with a probation officer,
police, HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC),
and local government, party headquarters,
and/or ensuring offenders undertake unpaid
Citizens Advice Bureau, trade organisations
other politicians and their staff, embassies,
work that benefits the community.
and legal professionals. Areas of work vary
commissioners, relevant interest groups,
The role may also incorporate delivering
but may include animal welfare, agriculture,
the media, relevant voluntary sector
specialist programmes to change offenders’
commercial fraud, counterfeiting, product
organisations and constituents.
attitudes and behaviour in order to help
labelling, weights and measures, safety and
The role may also include helping draft
reduce further offending and providing
pricing, under-age selling, credit and loans.
amendments for reports, preparing briefing
specialist reports to prison governors and
material and providing the politician with
parole review boards that help determine
Typical work activities
the support needed to get an issue on the
whether a prisoner should be released and,
Trading standards officers (TSOs) undertake
political agenda, e.g. research or liaising
if so, under what conditions, e.g. curfew/
a wide range of tasks, which may include
with key individuals or groups.
tagging order or probation supervision.
visiting trading premises, e.g. pubs, petrol
Probation officers are likely to work
stations, factories and markets, to carry out
with prisoners during and after their
routine tests or in response to a complaint.
Probation officer
sentence, helping them to reintegrate
Their duties may also consist of
Probation officers work with adult offenders,
into the community, and liaise with victims
checking weighing machines and food labels
supervising those who are serving non-
of serious crime to keep them informed
in shops, checking beer and spirit measures
custodial sentences as well those released
about a prisoner’s progress in prison.
in pubs and ensuring the correct transport
from prison on licence. They conduct offender
Other typical activities include gathering
of livestock to market.
risk assessments in order to protect the
feedback from the victim(s) about the impact
Further aspects of the role may
public, and ensure offenders’ awareness
of the offence and any fears and concerns
encompass dealing with traders selling faulty
of the impact of their crime on their victims
about the proposed release of the prisoner,
goods, identifying potential hazards, such
and the public.
and working with other agencies to help
as unsafe electrical goods or unroadworthy
They manage and enforce the conditions
local crime reduction and community safety,
vehicles, and checking that advertisements
of community orders, imposed by courts.
such as police, local authorities, courts,
and labels accurately describe the properties
Community orders are an alternative to a
health services, substance/misuse/drug
of the products.
prison sentence and can involve the offender
services, voluntary agencies and youth
They may also be responsible for taking
in activities such as unpaid work (also known
offending teams.
samples for laboratory analysis, offering
as community payback), programmes
Additional likely responsibilities consist of
business advice to help traders comply
aimed at changing offenders’ attitudes and
managing approved premises (formerly called
with legislation and investigating suspected
behaviour, and alcohol or drug rehabilitation.
hostels), which provide accommodation for
offences, sometimes undercover and with
Probation officers regularly interact
people on bail or probation or offenders on
the police or other agencies.
with offenders, victims, police and prison
parole, as well as attending court, sometimes
Additional typical responsibilities include
colleagues. They also work closely with
to testify about written recommendations
presenting evidence at court in criminal
local authorities, social services, housing
in reports.
proceedings, giving legal advice to members
departments and a range of independent
of the public about their consumer rights and
and voluntary sector partners.
keeping up to date with new legislation, new
Probation services are provided by
Social worker
cases and guidance procedures. There is also
35 probation trusts in England and Wales.
See Health & Social Care section.
likely to be a requirement to write reports,
Scotland and Northern Ireland have their
letters, articles and consultation documents,
own separate systems of justice.
and keeping accurate records.
Trading standards officer Typical work activities
Trading standards officers (TSO) act on
Work activities vary but typically involve
behalf of consumers and businesses to advise
Waste management officer
providing pre-sentence reports for court
on and enforce laws that govern the way
See Energy & Utilities section.
on people charged with an offence,
goods and services are bought, sold and
which help magistrates and judges to
hired. They generally work for local councils,
CHAPTER 2 | jobs directory
Recruitment & HR
Overview of the sector in the UK The Recruitment and HR sector is growing considerably and has
Specialist HR roles are available in large organisations and
seen significant changes over the past ten years. Companies are
include the following areas:
increasingly aware of the value of HR functions and the need
• e quality and diversity – leading the equality agenda by
to recruit and retain staff. Recruitment is a large and growing business, and recruitment consultancies are becoming an increasingly significant source of graduate employment. Recruitment and human resources (HR) are increasingly viewed as distinct industries with related areas of work. Both are growing considerably and have seen significant
promoting equality and diversity within the organisation; • r ecruitment and selection – planning and leading the recruitment and selection of employers for the organisation; •g raduate recruitment – accountable for selecting graduate employees; •o ccupational health – providing a comprehensive
changes over the past decade. These changes have helped
health advice service, promoting the health, safety
HR to shed its former image as a welfare or administrative
and wellbeing of all employees and ensuring customer
role, and it is now recognised as a key function in driving business forward and influencing business strategy. Companies recognise the value and importance of their HR functions and the need to recruit and retain the
compliance and legislation is adhered to; • l earning and development – responsible for the endto-end training activity for employees; • c ompensation, including pay and benefits – managing and evaluating employee benefits, conforming to
graduates with key skills in HR roles, so this is a popular
legislation and implementing policies.
and competitive sector. Recruitment is becoming an increasingly significant
A generalist HR role encompasses all of the above duties.
source of graduate employment. Roles may be based either
Generalist roles are usually found in small to medium-sized
in-house, managing the recruitment needs of an organisation,
enterprises (SMEs). Job roles in recruitment consultancies include:
or in a consultancy/agency, handling recruitment for a range
• r esourcer – researching and sourcing applicants for vacancies;
of clients.
• r ecruitment consultant/account manager – responsible
Executive recruitment consultancies and head hunters typically operate in specialist areas sourcing candidates
client companies; •h eadhunter/search executive – working on senior roles
directly rather than advertising openly – hence the
for client companies and sourcing candidates by mapping
term ‘headhunting’.
their career and cold calling them about jobs.
180 / 181
for senior appointments. They often approach individuals
for sourcing and matching candidates to jobs in their
Public sector / Recruitment & HR
best workforce. Increasingly, organisations are employing
What’s it like working in the sector?
Specialist search executives and headhunters in lucrative
In human resources, salaries vary considerably depending
sectors can earn in excess of £70,000 OTE. Recruiters in the IT
upon location, industry sector and level of seniority.
sector can expect to earn the highest total salaries, with the
Salaries range from £16,000 to £20,000 for an HR
finance sector paying the second highest. The lowest total salaries
administrator (Changeboard, 2011). At the other end
for recruiters are paid in the healthcare sector. (Figures obtained
of the scale, HR directors can earn six-figure salaries
from the Recruitment and Employment Confederation (REC), 2011.)
(UK Graduate Careers, 2011).
Recruitment consultants often work long hours, contacting
Salary may also be affected by your specialism.
clients at the end of the working day.
Typically, specialist roles earn a greater salary than generalist roles. Most HR professionals have contracted
What are the key issues in the sector?
hours of 35–37.5 a week, although many work more
While there are many HR and recruitment roles based around
hours than this.
the UK, many executive search consultancies and graduate
A starting salary in recruitment, on the other
HR schemes tend to be based in London or other large cities
hand, can be as low as £15,000. But this is an industry
where their clients or organisations operate.
where commission plays a big part in the salary, which
The majority of companies in the UK have an HR department.
can sometimes more than double with on-target earnings
Research the different sectors and pick the one which best suits
(OTE). Experienced recruitment consultants can expect
you. All sectors are different and offer varying complexities and
to earn a much higher salary and commission.
opportunities. It’s important to know that, depending on the
As with HR, salaries in recruitment vary considerably
sector you start working in, it can be difficult to move into a
according to role and sector.
different sector.
Graduate jobs
charities, healthcare settings and local
to meet people’s needs, advising people
authorities. The National Careers Service also
on how to source relevant training courses,
runs an online and telephone careers advice
qualifications and funding and providing
Careers adviser
service that employs careers advisers.
advice on CV, applications, job hunting and
A careers adviser provides information, advice
It is also possible to specialise in higher
interview techniques.
and guidance to help people make realistic
education careers advice and to work in a
The role is also likely to encompass
choices about their education, training and
careers service based within a university.
running small group sessions or larger
work. They may deal with a range of people
For more information on this role see higher
presentations on careers work and topics
from schoolchildren aged 13+ years up to
education careers adviser.
related to personal development, helping
or need help with further training.
Typical work activities
market and liaising and negotiating
Careers advisers can help to identify
The work of a careers adviser varies
with other organisations on behalf
options for suitable careers, help to build
depending on the type of organisation
of people.
CVs, identify skills gaps, advise on where to
they work in. Those contracted to work
Additional activities typically include
search for jobs and help with the application,
in a school with 13-year-olds and up will
using IT for administrative tasks, such as
and locate relevant training courses. They can
deal with different issues to those who
recording interactions with and tracking
work in a range of locations in the public,
work in colleges or job or community
clients, along with using computer-aided
private and voluntary sectors. The work will
centres. The variety of work that can be
guidance packages, skills assessment tools,
usually be carried out under the National
carried out includes interviewing people
career planners, psychometric tests and
Careers Service, but it may be sub-contracted
one to one or in small groups to discuss
personal inventories.
out to various organisations to maximise the
career or education options, identifying
Careers advisers may also be involved
accessibility of the service to as many people
skills gaps and how to deal with them
with writing careers literature or sourcing
as possible.
and helping young people to draw up
information products from elsewhere for use
Premises where careers advisers can be
action plans for employment, education
within the service, as well as planning and
based include: schools, further education
and training and supporting them to
organising careers fairs and conventions.
colleges, Job Centre Plus offices, community
achieve these goals.
Further likely tasks consist of keeping
centres, training providers, libraries,
Other typical duties include researching
up to date with labour market information,
Connexions offices, Sure Start Centres,
careers, options and support organisations
legislation, and professional and academic
adults who perhaps want a career change
people to understand the current job
checking application forms, shortlisting,
and psychologists, trade union representatives,
providers and training events, as well as
interviewing and selecting candidates.
and staff in teams and individually.
managing a caseload of clients.
Other typical activities include developing and implementing policies
Typical work activities
on issues such as working conditions,
Both in-house and consultancy-based
Human resources officer
performance management, equal
occupational psychologists carry out a range
Human resources (HR) officers develop,
opportunities, disciplinary procedures
of activities according to the needs of their
advise on and implement policies relating
and absence management. HR officers
clients or the organisation they work for.
to the effective use of personnel within an
may also be responsible for advising
The British Psychological Society (BPS)
organisation. Their aim is to ensure that the
on pay and other remuneration issues,
divides this work into eight key knowledge
organisation employs the right balance of
including promotion and benefits,
areas, as follows:
staff in terms of skills and experience, and
undertaking regular salary reviews
Human–machine interaction, that is,
that training and development opportunities
and negotiating with staff and their
assessing the usability and functionality of a
are available to employees to enhance their
representatives on issues relating to
system, such as a computer or workstation, and
performance and achieve the employer’s
pay and conditions.
making recommendations for improvements
business aims.
Additional likely responsibilities are
to ensure ease of use for the operator. It also
HR officers are involved in a range
administering payroll and maintaining
involves investigating problems that arise
of activities required by organisations that
employee records, interpreting and advising
or accidents that occur as a result of poorly
employ people, whatever the size or type of
on employment law and dealing with
designed human–machine interfaces, as well as
business. These cover areas such as working
grievances and implementing disciplinary
designing and applying change interventions.
practices, recruitment, pay, conditions of
procedures. Typical duties may also include
Design of work environments, by which
employment, negotiation with external work-
developing with line managers HR planning
is meant reviewing the ergonomic design
related agencies, and equality and diversity.
strategies for immediate and long-term staff
of a workplace by assessing the suitability
requirements, planning, and sometimes
of lighting, noise levels, furniture, etc. and
Typical work activities
delivering, training, including inductions for
providing recommendations for changes/
An HR officer must have a clear understanding
new staff and analysing training needs in
improvements. The activity may also include
of their employer’s business objectives and
conjunction with departmental managers.
working with engineers/designers to provide
be able to devise and implement policies
CHAPTER 2 | jobs directory
developments by visiting employers, training
input into the design of equipment, e.g.
that select, develop and retain the right
vehicles and workspaces.
staff needed to meet these objectives.
Management consultant
Personnel selection and assessment,
The HR profession has undergone some
See Business, Consulting &
which includes developing, implementing or
changes in recent years. There has been
Management section.
evaluating employee selection procedures,
some movement away from staff welfare
including psychometric tests, assessment
and administration-centred activities towards
centre exercises and structured interviews. Additionally, the role may involve developing
are now expected to add value to the
Occupational psychologists apply
talent-management processes and systems so
organisation they support. The exact nature of
psychological knowledge, theory and
organisations can identify and develop their
the work varies according to the organisation,
practice to the world of work. They aim
high-potential employees.
but is likely to include working closely with
to help an organisation get the best
Performance appraisal and career
departments, increasingly in a consultancy
performance from their employees
development, in other words, providing
role, assisting line managers to understand
and also to improve employees’ own
coaching, guidance and advice to employees
and implement policies and procedures and
job satisfaction.
or students in order to help them plan
promoting equality and diversity as part of
Occupational psychologists apply expert
and manage their careers. Duties may also
the culture of the organisation.
knowledge to all levels of working and
incorporate designing performance-appraisal
The role may also involve liaising
may work on organisational issues, such
systems that enable an organisation to
with a wide range of people involved in
as culture and change, as well as issues
measure, manage and reward the performance
policy areas such as staff performance
at an individual or team level. They may
of its employees.
and health and safety, as well as preparing
work in a consultancy role or in-house as
Counselling and personal development,
staff handbooks.
an employee of an organisation. They may
such as working one-to-one with individuals
There is likely to be an additional
also work in collaboration with, and/or their
to support them in becoming more successful
requirement to recruit staff – this includes
role overlap with, management, human
and effective in delivering their organisational
developing job descriptions and person
resources and training specialists, careers and
objectives, while also enhancing their personal
specifications, preparing job adverts,
management consultants, business coaches
well-being.
182 / 183
Occupational psychologist
Recruitment & HR
strategy and planning. HR departments
Training, which involves analysing the
sales consultant; territory manager; business
as part of a formal bidding process that is
training needs of employees, identifying skills
development representative.
largely dictated by the prospective customer.
gaps and determining how to address each
There is also likely to be a requirement
gap in a cost-effective manner. Likely activities
Typical work activities
to liaise with suppliers to check the progress
include designing, developing and delivering
Typical work activities depend on the market
of existing orders, to check quantities of
training programmes.
and the setting. A basic distinction can be
goods on display and in stock and to record
Employee relations and motivation,
made between two types of sales: business
sales and order information.
which consists of mediating in situations
to business (B2B) and business to customer
The role may also incorporate reviewing
where there is interpersonal conflict
or consumer (B2C).
your own sales performance, aiming to
between employees and/or management
B2B sales involve selling products
meet or exceed targets, gaining a clear
or an employment dispute.
or services from one business to another.
understanding of customers’ businesses and
Organisational development and change,
This is a typical avenue for graduates.
requirements and making accurate, rapid
which encompasses designing, developing
For example, a sales executive in a company
cost calculations and providing customers
and implementing change management
that manufactures fast-moving consumer
with quotations. Additionally, sales executives
initiatives aimed at helping employees to cope
goods (FMCG), e.g. soft drinks, will sell to
may be responsible for feeding future buying
successfully with changes in their workplace,
the retailer and may be involved in making
trends back to employers, as well as attending
for example restructuring, downsizing or
a strong argument so the products get shelf
team meetings and sharing best practice
new business processes.
space. Activities important for success include
with colleagues.
relationship building, researching the market and related products and presenting the
Office manager
product or service in a structured, professional
See Business, Consulting &
way face to face.
Sales promotion account executive
Management section.
B2C sales involve direct selling to the
See Marketing, Advertising & PR section.
consumer or end user. Examples include selling credit cards via the telephone or selling
Recruitment consultant
new cars in a showroom. Typical activities
See Business, Consulting &
for sales executives generally include listening
Training and development officer
Management section.
to customer requirements and presenting
A training and development officer/manager
appropriately to make a sale, maintaining
handles the learning and professional
and developing relationships with existing
development of an organisation’s workforce.
Sales executive
customers in person and via telephone
Trainers equip staff with the knowledge,
Sales executives sell their company’s goods
calls and emails and cold calling to arrange
practical skills and motivation to carry out
and services. Their customers may be
meetings with potential customers to
work-related tasks. Training officers either
businesses, governmental organisations
prospect for new business.
deliver the training themselves or arrange
or individuals, both in the UK and abroad.
Other aspects of the role include
for a third-party trainer to do so.
Their role is to approach potential
responding to incoming email and phone
Training and development officers help
customers with the aim of winning new
enquiries, acting as a contact between a
with the ongoing, long-term improvement
business. Many sales executives are also
company and its existing and potential
of employees’ skills, enabling them to fulfil
responsible for making repeat sales to
markets, negotiating the terms of an
their potential within their organisation.
their employer’s existing customers.
agreement and closing sales.
Increasingly, training and development
Sales executives work with products
Typical duties are also likely to include
officers are required to be strategic rather
and services in many areas, including fast-
gathering market and customer information,
than reactive, assessing the skills and
moving consumer goods (FMCG), such
representing the organisation at trade
knowledge within an organisation and
as food, drink and stationery, consumer
exhibitions, events and demonstrations and
determining what training is needed to
durables, such as clothes, domestic
negotiating on price, costs, delivery and
grow and retain these skills.
equipment and toys, business services,
specifications with buyers and managers,
such as web design, financial products
as well as challenging any objections with
Typical work activities
and sponsorship opportunities and industrial
a view to getting the customer to buy.
The nature of the training and development
supplies, such as chemicals, mechanical
Responsibilities may also consist
role is industry-specific, with the level
parts and vehicles.
of advising on forthcoming product
of responsibility and variety of activities
Within the sales environment a number
developments and discussing special
dependent on the type and size of
of other job titles are also used to refer to a
promotions, in addition to creating
organisation. However, activities are
similar role, including: sales representative;
detailed proposal documents, often
likely to include identifying training and
through job analysis, appraisal schemes and regular consultation with business managers and human resources departments. Other typical activities involve designing and expanding training and development programmes based on both
CHAPTER 2 | jobs directory
development needs within an organisation
the organisation’s and the individual’s needs. There may also be a requirement to consider the costs of planned programmes and keep within budgets as assessing the return on investment of any training or development programme is becoming increasingly important. The role may also incorporate working in a team to produce programmes that are satisfactory to all relevant parties in an organisation, such as line managers, accountants and senior managers at board level, developing effective induction programmes and producing training materials for in-house courses. Training managers may also be responsible for conducting appraisals, devising individual learning plans and ensuring that statutory training requirements are met, managing the delivery of training and development programmes and, in a more senior role, devising a training strategy for the organisation. Additional typical responsibilities include monitoring and reviewing the progress of trainees through questionnaires and discussions with managers, evaluating training and development programmes and amending and revising programmes as necessary, in order to adapt to changes occurring in the work environment. Further likely aspects of the role encompass helping line managers and trainers solve specific training problems, either on a one-to-one basis or in groups, in addition to keeping up to date with developments in training by reading relevant journals, going to meetings Typical duties may also entail having an understanding of e-learning techniques, and, where relevant, being involved in the creation and/or delivery of e-learning packages, as methodologies in workplace learning and presenting this research.
184 / 185
well as researching new technologies and
Recruitment & HR
and attending relevant courses.
Retail & sales
Overview of the sector in the UK Providing jobs for three million people, the retail sector is
open seven days a week with some operating 24 hours
the UK’s largest private employer. Employment opportunities
a day (except for Sundays).
in retail and sales are grouped into: • customer service;
What are the key issues in the sector?
• d istribution, logistics and supply chain;
The high street has become empty as many businesses have
• finance;
ceased trading altogether or reduced the number of stores.
• human resources;
This is a result of both the decrease in consumer spending
• IT and e-commerce;
during the recession and the transition of some companies
• marketing/advertising;
to operate predominantly online.
• merchandising/buying/planning;
Many large retailers including Borders, MFI and Woolworths
• product development;
have suffered during the recession, causing full closures.
• sales;
Others have gone into administration resulting in store closures
• store operations/management.
and staff redundancies, for example Barratts, Game, HMV and La Senza. More recently, companies going into administration
The retail sector makes up approximately 10 per cent of all
have included Comet and JJB Sports.
employment in the UK. More than half of people in the sector work part-time compared to less than a third across the whole
According to research by the UK Commission for Employment
economy. The UK is the most international retail market with
and Skills (UKCES):
the highest proportion of international retailers trading.
• the majority of labour demand will be in the moderately skilled, low-paid customer-service occupations but there will
What’s it like working in the sector?
also be demand for higher skilled, managerial and professional
Graduates entering the retail and sales sector can expect:
occupations required to sustain and encourage growth in
• varied working environments, e.g. working in the sales department can be target-driven, customer-facing and very
the sector; • technology advancement is continuing to have an effect on
busy. Merchandisers may work nights when the stores are
retailing with the creation and continuing expansion of online
closed. Finance teams and other office-based roles generally
retailing. This has affected the trading of some high street
work 9am to 5pm;
shops – Argos is due to close some of its stores as it undergoes
• a lower salary when compared to other sectors in the UK. This is in part due to the majority of occupations being at
a digital overhaul; • consumer demand affects the direction of the sector which has
an elementary customer-service level; however, at store
seen an increase in discount retailers. Also large retailers have
management level salaries can be high;
begun to offer financial services and develop their own branded
• to find many roles based on shift work. This can mean unsociable hours and weekend work, as retailers are often
goods. Changes in demographics will mean that retailers will have to start considering the needs of the ageing population.
There may also be a requirement to
however, contact potential customers and
stock-check books and, depending on the
clients with the aim of gathering information
shop, other merchandise, in addition to
or selling a product.
Bookseller
creating in-store and window displays.
Work activities vary according to the
A bookseller is involved in the retailing of
Booksellers may also undertake
type of centre but tasks will generally involve
books and associated products. They combine
to maintain commercial awareness
setting and meeting performance targets for
a strong customer focus with a sound
including identifying business and
speed, efficiency, sales and quality, managing
knowledge of their stock and of the wider
promotional opportunities, help with
the daily running of the call centre and liaising
book market in order to help customers locate
book events, including organising talks,
with supervisors, team leaders, operatives
particular books and to offer information
signing sessions and reading groups,
and third parties to gather information and
and advice about different books available.
and liaise with teaching and library
resolve issues.
Other duties may include ordering and
staff on set texts.
Other typical duties include
displaying stock and working with publishing
They may also be responsible for
maintaining up-to-date knowledge of
companies and representatives.
liaising with other external account holders,
industry developments and involvement
Booksellers may work in specialist
for example schools, councils and companies,
in networks, monitoring random calls to
book retailers or in retailers where books
reviewing sales performance and meeting
improve quality, minimise errors and track
form only part of the stock. They can work
sales targets and undertaking general
operative performance; and coordinating
for large retailers or small independent
housekeeping duties, such as unpacking,
staff recruitment, including writing vacancy
bookshops, and may specialise in a particular
stock replenishment and tidying.
advertisements and liaising with HR staff.
kind of bookselling, such as children’s or
With increased responsibility, the role
The role may also incorporate reviewing
antiquarian books.
becomes more operations- and business-
the performance of staff, identifying training
orientated. For those at higher levels, the
needs and planning training sessions, along
Typical work activities
work also involves dealing with staffing
with coaching, motivating and retaining
Depending on whether the job is based in
and training, budget setting and reporting
staff and coordinating bonus, reward and
a large chain or a small independent shop
sales and budget figures.
incentive schemes.
and on the size and location of the store,
CHAPTER 2 | jobs directory
Graduate jobs
Further tasks are likely to include
the exact duties of a bookseller may vary.
recording statistics, user rates and the
However, tasks often involve serving a range
Call centre manager
performance levels of the centre and
of customers, dealing with enquiries and
The manager of a call centre (also called a
preparing reports, handling the most
identifying customer needs and offering
contact centre) is responsible for the daily
complex customer complaints or enquiries
advice and recommending books, where
running and management of the centre
and organising staffing, including shift
appropriate. There is also likely to be
through the effective use of resources.
patterns and the number of staff required
a requirement to maintain up-to-date
They have responsibility for meeting, and
to meet demand.
knowledge of current titles and changes
possibly setting, customer-service targets
Call centre managers may also be
in the market, as well as undertaking
as well as planning areas of improvement
responsible for forecasting and analysing
bibliographic work using computer or
or development. Call centre managers
data against budget figures on a weekly
print sources to identify and locate titles.
ensure that calls are answered by staff
and/or monthly basis, as well as improving
Additional duties typically include
within agreed time scales and in an
performance by raising efficiency and
processing customer orders and book
appropriate manner.
sourcing new equipment to enable this,
reservations, dealing with mail order,
Call centre managers liaise with
e.g. new dialling products.
email and web-based orders – although
businesses for which they provide
this applies only in certain businesses –
the first response, as well as the third
and handling payments by cash, credit
parties who supply products to the
card and book tokens.
centre. They coordinate and motivate
Commercial art gallery manager
The role may also involve buying from
call centre staff and may also manage
A commercial art gallery manager is
catalogues and publishers’ representatives
staff recruitment.
responsible for the commercial and artistic
Typical work activities
the diverse activities involved in running a
great deal from shop to shop.
There are two types of call centre, although
gallery space.
Other typical responsibilities include
some may incorporate both functions.
Responsibilities range from dealing with
negotiating prices with sellers, paying and
Inbound centres receive calls from
clients to installing exhibitions. Because of
processing invoices and processing book
customers and clients, e.g. queries, requests,
this scope, the role demands a combination
deliveries and returns.
orders and complaints. Outbound centres,
of artistic awareness, business acumen,
186 / 187
staff are involved in buying stock varies a
Retail & sales
success of a gallery. This involves overseeing
although the extent to which bookselling
interpersonal skills and practical abilities.
Typical responsibilities, in addition,
Other likely responsibilities include
Commercial art galleries vary in style, size
consist of cataloguing acquisitions and
keeping accurate records of discussions or
and purpose. The art market continues to
keeping records and archives, developing
correspondence with customers, analysing
diversify to include more regional artist-led
and updating the gallery website and
statistics or other data to determine the
spaces and a variety of different types of
promoting and selling artists’ work, through
level of customer service your organisation is
galleries with different approaches to the
both exhibitions and personal contacts.
providing and producing written information
selling of art, but a period spent in London or
Possible tasks also include keeping
for customers, often involving use of
another large city may still be necessary for
up to date with industry developments
computer packages/software.
managers to widen their job opportunities.
and market trends, as well as general
There is also likely to be a requirement
This is a market-led industry that
administration, budgeting, finance
to write reports that analyse the customer
demands commercial focus and flair, in
and accounts.
service that your organisation provides, to
addition to an interest in art.
develop feedback or complaints procedures for customers to use, as well as developing
Typical work activities
Customer service manager
customer service procedures, policies
Typical work activities depend on the size,
Customer service managers ensure that
and standards for your organisation
commercial success and ethos of the gallery.
the organisation they work for satisfies
or department.
Some gallery managers are generalists, while
its customers’ needs. They may work at
Customer service managers may also
those working in larger galleries are specialists
various levels, from head office to the
be tasked with meeting other managers to
dealing with specific areas, such as finance,
front end of the business and in most
discuss possible improvements to customer
marketing and IT. Typical activities include
cases will be helping to develop a customer
service, being involved in staff recruitment
ensuring the smooth day-to-day running of
service policy for an entire organisation,
and appraisals and training staff to deliver
the gallery, developing and/or maintaining
managing a team of customer services
a high standard of customer service.
the gallery’s remit and maintaining ongoing
staff and handling face-to-face enquiries
Other likely aspects of the role
promotion and advertising of the gallery.
from customers.
include leading or supervising a team
Additional typical duties involve
Possible roles vary widely and job titles
of customer service staff, learning about
assessment and selection of artwork,
in customer services management include
your organisation’s products or services
overseeing the type of artwork sold
customer care manager, corporate services
and keeping up to date with changes
and planning, organising, presenting
manager, customer relationship manager
and keeping ahead of developments
and marketing exhibitions and shows,
and customer operations manager. In each
in customer service by reading relevant
including responsibility for public relations.
of these roles, customer service managers
journals, going to meetings and
There may also be a requirement
are expected to understand and satisfy their
attending courses.
to work closely with individual artists,
customers’ requirements and exceed their
develop relationships with new artists,
expectations if possible.
Dispensing optician
and extend relationships with established artists from the gallery ‘stable’.
Typical work activities
A dispensing optician is trained to dispense
Gallery managers may also be
The main aim of a customer service manager
and fit spectacles and other optical aids,
responsible for promoting exhibitions and
is to provide excellent customer service.
working from the prescriptions written
work by individual artists, curating shows in
Although the work varies, depending on the
by optometrists and ophthalmologists.
cooperation with artists and technicians and
type and size of the employing organisation,
Dispensing opticians advise patients
arranging transport of work to and from the
typical activities are likely to include providing
on various types of lenses and spectacle
gallery, both nationally and internationally.
help and advice to customers using your
frames, including advice on style, weight
Further typical duties include organising
organisation’s products or services, as well as
and colour. They also advise patients
equipment hire, negotiating with gallery
communicating courteously with customers
on how to wear and care for their
managers and curators from other galleries
by telephone, email, letter and face to face.
spectacles and, with further training
to arrange for loans and keeping front-of-
The role may also involve investigating
as contact lens opticians (CLOs), their
house staff briefed on technical and artistic
and solving customers’ problems, which
contact lenses.
matters relating to programming.
may be complex or long-standing issues
The majority of dispensing opticians
The role may also involve developing
that have been passed on by customer
work in high-street outlets for large,
client lists by notifying potential clients of
service assistants. Additional typical activities
multiple-chain optician stores or for
particular works and exhibitions, according
include handling customer complaints or any
independent practices. The role requires
to their stated interests, extending the client
major incidents, such as a security issue or a
extensive use of technical expertise and
database and liaising with visiting artists
customer being taken ill, as well as issuing
good customer service skills. Selling is
and negotiating sales.
refunds or compensation to customers.
also an important part of the job.
in a particular product or medical area.
products, maintaining knowledge of new
The role of a dispensing optician may include
They may also make presentations and
developments in the National Health Service
interpreting optical prescriptions written by
organise group events for healthcare
(NHS), anticipating potential negative and
optometrists or ophthalmologists, giving
professionals, as well as working one-
positive impacts on the business and staying
advice to patients on lens type, frames
to-one with contacts.
informed about the activities of health
and styling and, with further training,
services in a particular area. Additionally,
fitting contact lenses and giving advice on
Typical work activities
medical sales representatives may be
their care and use. There is also likely to
In any setting, selling involves contacting
involved in adapting strategy accordingly, as
be a requirement to take frame and facial
potential customers, identifying their needs,
well as developing strategies for increasing
measurements to ensure correct fit and
persuading them that your products or
opportunities to meet and talk to contacts
positioning, advise partially sighted patients
services (rather than those of competitors)
in the medical and healthcare sector.
on the use of low-vision aids and advise
can best satisfy those needs; closing the
patients when adjustments or repairs to
sale by agreeing the terms and conditions;
spectacles are needed.
and providing an after-sales service. Medical
Retail buyer
Other typical activities include selecting
sales representatives do all of this and more.
A retail buyer is responsible for planning
and ordering a range of optical products,
Tasks often include arranging
and selecting a range of products to sell in
ordering lenses from prescription houses and
appointments with doctors, pharmacists
retail outlets. The buyer must consider the
checking lenses on delivery to ensure that
and hospital medical teams, which may
following factors when making purchasing
they meet the required specifications.
consist of pre-arranged appointments or
decisions: customer demand (e.g. price,
Additional likely duties entail arranging
regular ‘cold’ calling. Additional activities
quality and availability), market trends,
and maintaining shop displays, liaising with
involve making presentations to doctors,
store policy and financial budgets.
sales representatives from vision-care product
practice staff and nurses in GP surgeries,
Buyers source new and review existing
suppliers and supervising and teaching trainee
hospital doctors and pharmacists in the
merchandise to ensure products remain
dispensing opticians.
retail sector. Presentations may take place in
competitive. By fully understanding customer
Dispensing opticians who choose
medical settings during the day, or at local
needs, they can maximise profits and offer
to take on additional store management
hotels or conference venues in the evenings.
a commercially viable range of merchandise
responsibilities may also undertake recruiting
Medical sales representatives are typically
at competitive prices. Keeping up to date
and overseeing the professional development
responsible for organising conferences for
with market trends and reacting to changes
of staff, administering, organising and
doctors and other medical staff, building and
in demand are key elements of the role.
planning the development of the business
maintaining positive working relationships
Retail buyers have a considerable
and keeping accurate patient and business
with medical staff, along with supporting
amount of responsibility and autonomy
records. In addition, they may be responsible
administrative staff. They may also manage
in what is often a pressured environment.
for management and marketing activities.
budgets (for catering, outside speakers, Typical work activities can vary according
IT sales professional
possible, exceed) sales targets. Other typical
to the season. This is particularly true for
See IT & Information Services section.
duties include planning work schedules and
those working in fashion. For example,
weekly and monthly timetables. This may
out of season, the majority of time will be
involve working with the area sales team or
spent in the workplace (in the office and
Medical sales representative
discussing future targets with the area sales
on the shop floor), and during the buying
Medical sales representatives (widely referred
manager. Generally, medical sales executives
season, a significant amount of time will be
to as reps) are a key link between medical and
have their own regional area of responsibility
spent away from the workplace in order to
pharmaceutical companies and healthcare
and plan how and when to target health
assemble a new collection of merchandise.
professionals. They sell their company’s
professions, regularly attending company
Throughout the year, tasks typically
products, which include medicines, prescription
meetings, technical data presentations
involve analysing consumer buying patterns
drugs and medical equipment, to a variety of
and briefings.
and predicting future trends, regularly
customers including general practices, primary
There is likely to be a requirement to
reviewing performance indicators, e.g.
care trusts (PCTs), hospitals and pharmacies.
keep up to date with the latest clinical data
sales and discount levels and managing
They also work strategically to increase
supplied by the company, and interpret,
plans for stock levels.
the awareness and use of their company’s
present and discuss this data with health
Additional typical activities consist
pharmaceutical and medical products.
professionals during presentations. Further
of reacting to changes in demand and/or
Medical sales reps are usually based in a
typical responsibilities include monitoring
logistics, meeting suppliers and negotiating
specific geographical location and specialise
competitor activity and competitors’
terms of contracts and maintaining
188 / 189
Typical work activities
records of all contacts and reach (or, if
Retail & sales
conferences, hospitality, etc.), keep detailed
CHAPTER 2 | jobs directory
Typical work activities
relationships with existing suppliers and
comprehensive library of appropriate
healthcare products, manufacturing parts
sourcing new suppliers for future products.
data. Additional typical duties involve
and household items. To achieve this, they
The role may also involve liaising with other
working closely with visual display staff
manage people, processes and systems.
departments within the organisation to
and department heads to decide how
They ensure productivity targets are met and
ensure projects are completed, attending
goods should be displayed to maximise
oversee the maintenance of warehouse and
trade fairs, in the UK and overseas, to select
customer interest and sales, as well
labour management systems. Warehouse
and assemble a new collection of products
as producing layout plans for stores.
managers may also be involved in operating
and participating in promotional activities,
The role is also likely to incorporate
automated storage and retrieval systems.
writing reports and forecasting sales levels,
forecasting profits and sales, and
They ensure workplace health and safety
Additional likely responsibilities include
optimising the sales volume and
requirements are met and take responsibility
presenting new ranges to senior retail
profitability of designated product
for the security of the building and stock.
managers, liaising with shop personnel
areas, in addition to planning budgets
In a large operation, warehouse
to ensure product/collection supply
and presenting sales forecasts and
managers manage teams of workers through
meets demand, and seeking feedback
figures for new ranges.
the use of team leaders and supervisors
from customers. Retail buyers may also
Other typical activities include
and deal with personnel issues such as the
have to train and mentor junior staff.
controlling stock levels based on forecasts
recruitment, training and discipline of staff.
for the season, as well as using specialist
Specialist warehouses involve the storage
computer software, for example to handle
of temperature-controlled products such as
Retail manager
sales statistics, produce sales projections
food and pharmaceuticals and the storage
See Business, Consulting &
and present spreadsheets and graphs.
of hazardous materials.
Management section.
Additionally, there may be a requirement to analyse every aspect of bestsellers (for
Typical work activities
example, the bestselling price points, colours
Work activities depend on the size of the
Retail merchandiser
or styles) and ensuring that bestsellers reach
operation. In large storage operations,
Merchandisers are responsible for ensuring
their full potential, alongside monitoring
managers have a more strategic role and deal
that products appear in the right store at
slow sellers and taking action to reduce
with planning, coordinating, administration
the right time and in the right quantities.
prices or set promotions as necessary.
and general management issues, including
This involves working closely with the buying
Retail merchandisers may also be
supervising staff and overseeing work
teams to accurately forecast trends, plan
responsible for gathering information on
organised by team leaders (who report to
stock levels and monitor performance.
customers’ reactions to products, analysing
the manager). In small operations, managers
While the buyer selects the lines, the
the previous season’s sales and reporting
deal with more practical, ‘hands-on’ work.
merchandiser decides how much money
on the current season’s lines and making
Typical work activities include liaising
should be spent, how many lines should be
financial presentations to senior managers.
with customers, suppliers and transport
bought and in what quantities. In smaller
They may also have to accompany
companies, planning, coordinating and
firm, the same person may be responsible
buyers on visits to manufacturers to
monitoring the receipt, order assembly
for both buying and merchandising.
appreciate production processes, and
and dispatch of goods and the efficient
Merchandisers play a key role, as an
to meet with suppliers and manage the
utilisation of space and mechanical handling
organisation’s profitability can be affected by
distribution of stock by negotiating cost
equipment, ensuring quality, budgetary
how successfully they undertake their work.
prices, ordering stock, agreeing timescales
targets and environmental objectives are
Merchandisers set prices to maximise profits
and delivery dates, and completing the
met. Additional duties typically involve
and manage the performance of ranges,
necessary paperwork.
understanding the company’s policies and
planning promotions and markdowns as
vision and how the warehouse contributes
necessary. They also oversee delivery and distribution of stock and deal with suppliers.
to these, coordinating the use of automated
Sales executive
and computerised systems where utilised
See Recruitment & HR section.
and keeping stock control systems up to
Typical work activities
date and ensuring inventory accuracy.
Work activities vary depending upon the
Other likely tasks include dealing
company and the particular retail sector,
Warehouse manager
with customer communication, planning
but will typically include planning product
Warehouse managers are a vital part of
future capacity needs and organising the
ranges and preparing sales and stock
the supply chain process. They oversee
recruitment and training of staff, as well as
plans in conjunction with buyers, liaising
the efficient receipt, storage, value-
monitoring staff performance and progress
with buyers, analysts, stores, suppliers
adding, servicing and dispatch of a wide
and overseeing the planned maintenance
and distributors and maintaining a
range of goods including food, clothing,
of vehicles, machinery and equipment.
CHAPTER 2 | jobs directory
Science & pharmaceuticals
Overview of the sector in the UK There are many different roles in the science and
• management and administration;
pharmaceuticals sector, providing opportunities for
• consultancy;
graduates from non-science backgrounds to work in
• data management;
science-based organisations. For science-based roles,
• IT support;
graduates are recruited from across the academic
• HR;
spectrum, including applied, physical, material and
• marketing;
life sciences.
• logistics; • sales.
The science sector covers: • laboratory research and development (R&D);
What’s it like working in the sector?
• biotechnology;
Opportunities exist in major cities and towns throughout the
• the pharmaceutical, nuclear, oil and gas, chemicals,
UK. Working conditions vary according to your role. You might
petroleum, and polymer industries; • R&D and manufacture of medical devices;
work in a laboratory, office, warehouse, on the factory floor or outdoors. Pay varies widely between roles.
• publishing, patents, scientific communication; • the science underpinning the engineering development of other sectors.
What are the key issues in the sector? Women are well represented in pharmaceuticals and bioscience, making up around 40% of the workforce, but the proportion
There are 5.8 million people working in science-based
is smaller at senior levels (The Science Council, 2011). and The UKRC (for women in science, engineering, technology
of the core and related science workforce (The Science
and the built environment) offer career advice and mentoring
Council, 2011).
to women embarking on a career in science.
Work in the science sector encompasses a huge range
Ethical issues in the science sector that are subject to
of occupations, including:
debate include:
• product and process development;
• animal experimentation;
• research and development;
• drug testing;
• medical and analytical chemistry;
• genetic modification of plants;
• in vivo sciences;
• human/stem cell research;
• clinical research;
• nuclear energy;
• manufacturing;
• the involvement of global, commercial corporations;
• teaching;
• the environmental impact of scientific work;
• writing and editing;
• the ethics of work in the defence/military environment.
190 / 191
WISE (Women into Science, Engineering and Construction)
Graduates or postgraduates make up almost 60 per cent
Retail & sales / Science & pharmaceuticals
occupations, which equates to a fifth of the UK workforce.
Graduate jobs
for product licence applications, e.g. with
Experienced technologists help to
the Medicines and Healthcare products
breed animals especially for use in research.
Regulatory Agency (MHRA) or the US Food
They monitor pregnancies, care for newborn
Analytical chemist
and Drug Administration (FDA). They may
animals and measure weight gain and
Analytical chemists use a diverse range of
also undertake setting the specifications
growth. Technologists also play a key role
methods to investigate the chemical nature
for finished products.
in selecting animals for studies as well
of substances. The aim of such work is to
as carrying out and developing dosing,
identify and understand the substance and
assessment and sampling techniques.
how it behaves in different conditions.
Animal technologist
Some understanding of the science
In the pharmaceutical industry, for
An animal technologist is responsible for the
supporting individual studies is required
example, analytical chemists are involved
care and welfare of laboratory animals used
in such cases.
throughout the drug development process;
in medical, veterinary and dental research.
Research with animals in the UK
they study the physical or chemical properties
Some technologists are also directly involved
takes place under strict legal controls and
of drug substances and formulations, with a
in experimental work.
technologists are responsible for ensuring all
view to determining the quality and stability
Approximately, 3.5 million animals (over
legislation is adhered to. According to Lantra:
of drug products. Analytical chemists may
three-quarters of which are rodents) are used
The Sector Skills Council for the Environmental
be involved in work as diverse as:
in scientific procedures in the UK each year.
and Land-based Sector, the introduction
• chemical or forensic analysis;
The different requirements of each species
of the European Directive 86/609/EEC
• process development;
and each set of experiments means the
from 2013 to 2017 will probably have an
• product validation;
working environment varies considerably.
impact on the training and skills needed in
• quality control;
The use of animals in scientific
animal technology and may demand greater
• toxicology;
procedures is regulated by the Animals
investment in facilities and equipment.
• drug formulation and development.
(Scientific Procedures) Act 1986, which recognises the necessity for research
Typical work activities
involving animals but demands a high
Biomedical scientist
Techniques used or activities carried out may
level of animal welfare protection.
Biomedical scientists work in healthcare and carry out a range of laboratory tests and
vary depending on the employer or area of specialism, but may include analysing samples
Typical work activities
techniques on tissue samples and fluids to
from various sources to provide information
Animal technologists are in daily contact
help clinicians diagnose diseases. They also
on compounds or quantities of compounds
with animals, and much of the work involves
evaluate the effectiveness of treatments.
present and using analytical techniques
routine tasks essential to the care and
Their work is extremely important for many
and instrumentation, such as gas and high
welfare of the animals.
hospital departments and the functions they
performance liquid chromatography (HPLC),
Tasks often involve cleaning cages,
carry out are wide ranging. For example,
ion chromatography, electrochromatography
pens, trays, equipment and fittings, feeding
they may work on medical conditions,
and spectroscopy (infrared and ultraviolet,
and watering animals and handling and
such as cancer, diabetes, AIDS, malaria,
among others).
moving animals safely.
food poisoning or anaemia, and carry out
Other typical duties consist of
The role may also include administering
tests for emergency blood transfusions or
interpreting data and adhering to strict
medicines, checking the environment (for
to see if someone has had a heart attack.
guidelines on documentation when
example, temperature and humidity) and
recording data, reporting scientific results
monitoring the condition of animals, and
Biomedical scientists tend to specialise in
and using a range of analytical techniques,
recognising and resolving any behavioural
one particular area including:
instrumentation and software.
problems. Additional likely tasks consist
• medical microbiology – identification of
The role may also involve developing
of obtaining samples and measurements,
new techniques for the analysis of
collecting and recording data and ensuring
drug products and chemicals, working
animals are kept clean and comfortable.
collaboratively in cross-functional teams and
Technologists may be involved in
liaising with customers, staff and suppliers.
designing studies and setting the conditions
Analytical chemists also typically keep
and protocols that will provide scientists
up to date with health and safety issues
with the information required. They need
in all aspects of the work undertaken, as
to understand the physical, behavioural and
well as validating methods and equipment.
environmental requirements of individual
More senior analysts are likely to be
species and be able to predict and interpret
involved in preparing the documentation
the animals’ responses.
micro-organisms causing disease and their antibiotic treatment; • clinical chemistry – analysis of body fluids and toxicology studies; • transfusion science – determination of donor/recipient blood compatibility, ensuring blood banks are sufficient; • haematology – form and functions of blood and related diseases; • histopathology – microscopic examination of diseased tissue samples;
Modern pathology and biomedical work
consultants or investigators on conducting the
smear screening, but also covers other
entail complex investigations, requiring
trial. There is also likely to be a requirement
cellular analysis;
a keen eye for detail and the ability to
to set up the trial sites, which includes
• immunology – understanding the immune
provide a quality service despite pressure
ensuring each centre has the trial materials,
system and its role in combating disease;
from tight deadlines and a high volume of
including the trial drug often known as the
work. The ability to work effectively as part
investigational medicinal product, as well as
associated diseases and monitoring the
of a team is an important personal quality
a need to train the site staff to trial-specific
effectiveness of vaccines.
for the role.
industry standards.
• virology – identification of viruses,
CHAPTER 2 | jobs directory
• cytology – best known for cervical
Clinical research associates are also Typical work activities
typically responsible for monitoring the trial
Biomedical scientists usually work with
Clinical research associate
throughout its duration, which involves
equipment with high levels of automation, and
A clinical research associate (CRA) runs
visiting the trial sites on a regular basis and
most laboratories are extensively computerised.
clinical trials to test drugs for their
verifying that data entered onto the CRFs is
Work activities vary depending on the
effectiveness, risks and benefits to ensure
consistent with patient clinical notes, known
specialist area but typically include testing
they are safe to allow on to the market.
as source data/document verification (SDV).
human samples such as blood, tissue, urine or
They may work on new as well as existing
Additional responsibilities may include
cerebrospinal and faecal material for enzymes,
drugs and are usually employed by either
collecting completed CRFs from hospitals
hormones and other constituents, in addition
a pharmaceutical company or a contract
and general practices, writing visit reports
to analysing cell cultures grown from tissue
research organisation (CRO), which works
and filing and collating trial documentation
samples and identifying blood groups.
on behalf of pharmaceutical companies.
and reports. Further typical activities consist
Other typical duties include working
The CRA will typically be involved
of ensuring all unused trial supplies are
with computers, sophisticated machinery,
in all stages of the clinical trial, including
accounted for, closing down trial sites on
microscopes and other hi-tech laboratory
identifying an investigational site and setting
completion of the trial and discussing results
equipment and assisting in ensuring that
up, initiating, monitoring and closing down
with a medical statistician, who usually
the necessary turnaround times for reporting
the trial. Clinical trials may be carried out at
writes technical trial reports.
results are achieved where possible.
various stages or phases and include trials
There may be an additional requirement
The role is also likely to involve
on healthy humans, trials on patients with
to archive study documentation and
communicating the results of tests to medical
a disease, and studies conducted after the
correspondence and to prepare final reports
staff, who use the information to diagnose
launch of a new drug to monitor safety
and occasionally manuscripts for publication.
and treat the patient’s illness, monitoring the
and side effects.
effects of medication and other programmes
Food technologist
Tasks carried out by a CRA may vary
See Engineering & Manufacturing section.
record and analyse data, write reports and
depending on their employer but they
share results.
will typically include developing and
Biomedical scientists may also be
writing trial protocols (outlining the
Medical physicist
responsible for responding to and redirecting
purpose and methodology of a trial),
Medical physicists apply physics and
professional enquiries, assisting in the
presenting trial protocols to a steering
technical skills to the practice of medicine
production of laboratory documentation,
committee and designing data collection
to help prevent, diagnose and treat many
particularly relating to policies and standard
forms, known as case report forms (CRFs).
kinds of diseases and health conditions.
operating procedures, developing new
Additional likely activities include
They develop, test and evaluate specialist
methods of investigation and keeping
coordinating with the ethics committee,
equipment and procedures in many areas
up to date with diagnostic innovation.
which safeguards the rights, safety and
including radiotherapy, nuclear medicine, laser
Other typical activities include
wellbeing of all trial subjects, managing
technology and physiological monitoring.
implementing quality control procedures
regulatory authority applications and
As clinical scientists in the National
(both internal and external) to maintain
approvals that oversee the research and
Health Service (NHS), medical physicists
accurate results, as well as maintaining and
marketing of new and existing drugs and
have a central role in developing, planning
updating professional knowledge and taking
identifying and assessing the suitability of
and implementing patient treatment
responsibility for continuing professional
facilities to be used as the clinical trial site.
programmes. This role is closely linked
development (CPD).
The role may also entail identifying/
to that of a clinical engineer.
Although some of the analytical work
selecting an investigator who will be
While the majority work in the NHS,
may be of a routine nature, many of the
responsible for the conduct of the trial at
others are employed in medical equipment
tests are challenging and demanding.
the trial site, along with liaising with doctors/
manufacturing companies, regulatory
192 / 193
Typical work activities
using information technology to accurately
Science & pharmaceuticals
of treatment by carrying out further tests and
authorities, universities, research organisations
problems with hardware and software
lowest kilometre of the atmosphere, the
and companies using radioactive materials.
and to undertake audit visits to hospital
physics of clouds and precipitation and global
departments to check compliance with
climate change, in addition to developing and
Typical work activities
health and safety legislation, including
improving numerical and computer models to
Medical physicists are involved in services
personnel monitoring, decontamination
predict atmospheric processes and improve
to patients, research and development
routines, radioactive waste management
the accuracy of forecasts.
activities. These include engaging in technical
and radiation detection advice.
Other typical duties consist of monitoring
procedures that form part of patient care and
climate variability and change, researching
treatment, e.g. monitoring the spinal cord
seasonal forecasting, ocean forecasting,
during spinal surgery or assessing the results
Meteorologist
climate prediction, and monitoring and
of physiological measurement to assess organ
Meteorologists study the causes of particular
investigating changes in the stratosphere
function or blood flow, as well as planning
weather conditions using information
(10–50 km above the Earth), including
and supervising radiotherapy treatment in
obtained from the land, sea and upper
the ozone layer. The role may also include
discussion with medical and other staff.
atmosphere. They use computerised and
applying the results of research in order, for
Other typical activities include working
mathematical models to make short- and
example, to give flood warnings or estimate
with patients in a range of roles, for example,
long-range forecasts concerning weather
the likely effects of global warming.
explaining treatment procedures and possible
and climate patterns. Organisations that use
side effects, liaising closely with doctors
meteorological forecasts include transport
to add technical results to patient reports
services, particularly air and sea travel, the
and training and advising medical physics
shipping and sea fishing industries and
Product/process development scientist
technicians on new equipment and protocols.
sailing organisations, the armed forces and
Industries which manufacture products
The role may also consist of lecturing and
government services, e.g. for advice on
typically need development scientists
training other health professionals, including
climate change policy, in addition to farmers,
who are able to understand and control the
radiographers, nurses and doctors in clinical
public services, the media, industry and
processes used to produce the final product.
practice, negotiating and agreeing changes
retail businesses, insurance companies
Development scientists work across the
to patient diagnosis techniques in response
and health services.
manufacturing industry, on products such
to new procedures and processing complex
In addition to forecasting, meteorologists
as foods, medicines, cosmetics and paints.
patient image data.
study the impact of weather on the
Process development scientists aim to
There may also be a requirement to
environment and conduct research into
optimise the performance of manufacturing
act as the on-call duty physicist in order to
weather patterns, climate change and
systems. They are responsible for identifying
respond to problems and provide advice and
models of weather prediction.
and developing new processes for product manufacture, as well as implementing process
technical assistance, as well as to develop techniques to show what is happening in the
Typical work activities
controls to ensure that quality products are
body using x-ray, MRI, laser, ultrasound and
A meteorologist’s work falls into two main
manufactured in a reproducible manner.
ultraviolet technologies and optimising use
categories: forecasting and research.
Product development scientists work
of these.
In weather forecasting, typical work
with research scientists to develop new
Medical physicists may also be involved
activities involve collecting data from satellite
ideas and scientific discoveries, which can be
in researching new equipment developments
images, radar, remote sensors and weather
utilised in the manufacture of new products.
and techniques, reviewing existing local
stations all over the world, measuring
They also develop and improve existing
practice, advising on procurement of new
factors such as air pressure, temperature and
products. Product and process development
equipment and compiling reports to initiate
humidity at various atmospheric levels and
scientists are both concerned with improving
changes, along with commissioning new or
analysing and presenting this information to
the efficiency and profitability of the
upgraded equipment to achieve compatibility
customers in the form of weather briefings.
manufactured product.
with existing machines.
Additional typical activities include
Additionally, typical responsibilities
coding weather reports for transmission over
Typical work activities
include monitoring equipment to ensure
international networks, applying physical and
Work activities differ depending on whether
that correct and consistent results or outputs
mathematical relationships and sophisticated
you choose to work in process or product
are achieved and ensuring that ongoing
computer models to make short- and long-
development. Tasks typically carried out
maintenance routines are followed, as
range weather forecasts and liaising with
by development scientists include devising
well as drafting and developing policies
colleagues and clients from around the
new processes, or refining existing ones,
for operating equipment.
country and worldwide.
to optimise the manufacturing process and
There is also likely to be a need
In research, typical work activities include
planning, carrying out and supervising process
for medical physicists to troubleshoot
investigating subjects such as airflow in the
trials in laboratories, pilot plants or factories.
particularly to the pharmaceutical and
Other typical activities include
up the production process via plant trials,
healthcare sector).
collecting, collating and evaluating scientific
making changes to raw materials or
There may also be a requirement to
data that has been researched by colleagues
components and process parameters to
oversee the integration of new products
and developing and writing clear arguments
ensure quality is maintained during large-
with other commercial areas, including
and explanations for new product licences
scale production and proving yields by
brand development, sales strategy,
and licence renewals.
reducing costs, for example investigating
quality assurance, legal, marketing
The role is also likely to consist
alternative materials or new machinery
and manufacturing.
of preparing submissions of licence
to improve efficiency, quality and yields
Both job roles may involve presenting
variations and renewals to strict deadlines,
in bottleneck areas.
ideas to senior staff, training and supervising
monitoring and setting timelines for
Additional typical duties include
new team members or more junior staff,
licence variations and renewal approvals
implementing process controls and devising
and reading trade press and/or attending
and working with specialist computer
test methods to assess the production
conferences to keep up to date with
software and resources.
process, validating new processes and
industry developments.
Regulatory affairs officers may also
showing that they are an improvement and
CHAPTER 2 | jobs directory
The role is also likely to involve scaling
be responsible for writing clear, accessible
working with product pipelines at various
product labels and patient information
stages of development.
Regulatory affairs officer
leaflets and planning and developing
There is likely to be a requirement
Regulatory affairs officers ensure the
product trials and interpreting trial
to develop formulae, specifications and
appropriate licensing, marketing and legal
data, as well as advising scientists and
label declarations, and to ensure compliance
compliance of pharmaceutical and medical
manufacturers on regulatory requirements.
with the finished product specifications.
products in order to control the safety and
Additional responsibilities may
Development scientists may also be
efficacy of products. They combine their
also consist of providing strategic advice
responsible for advising on equipment
knowledge of scientific, legal and business
to senior management throughout the
modification to enable process changes
issues to ensure products, which are
development of a new product, project
for new product development, leading and
developed, manufactured or distributed
managing teams of colleagues involved
writing technical reports and specifications,
by a wide range of companies, meet the
with the development of new products
and maintaining appropriate records and
required legislation.
and undertaking and managing
initiating and generating ideas based on
They advise on and coordinate
regulatory inspections.
reading and research.
the approval and registration of
There is also likely to be a requirement
Typical work activities for product
pharmaceuticals, veterinary medicines,
to review company practices and provide
development scientists include devising
complementary medicines, agrochemicals,
advice on changes to systems, liaise with,
methods for making products at the required
pesticides, therapeutic devices, cosmetics
and make presentations to, regulatory
scale and/or evaluating existing processes to
and other products. Regulatory affairs
authorities and negotiate with regulatory
identify areas for improvement, as well as
officers are the crucial link between their
authorities for marketing authorisation,
formulating and establishing product design
company, its products and regulatory
specifying storage, labelling and packaging
and performance objectives, normally in
authorities, including the Medicines and
requirements. Regulatory affairs officers
consultation with other functions, including
Healthcare products Regulatory Agency
may also be called upon to specify storage
research, marketing and production, as well
(MHRA), US Food and Drug Administration
and labelling requirements.
as contractors, suppliers and customers.
(FDA) and European Medicines Agency.
The role may also encompass It can take up to 15 years to develop and
Research scientist (life sciences)
resolving production problems, conducting
launch a new pharmaceutical product and
See Armed Forces & Emergency
test protocols and procedures and product
a regulatory affairs officer will be involved
Services section.
evaluation and transferring new technologies
throughout the process, right from the
across a range of product categories.
beginning. Typical activities include ensuring
Additional typical duties include
that a company’s products comply with the
Secondary school teacher
writing technical reports and cost
regulations of the Medicines and Healthcare
See Teaching & Education section.
estimates, documenting development
products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), in
work and implementing profit improvement
addition to keeping abreast of international
programmes, as well as generating data
legislation, guidelines and customer practices
Statistician
to substantiate claims regarding the safety
in all the countries that the company is
See Armed Forces & Emergency
and efficacy of new products (this applies
exporting to.
Services section.
194 / 195
Typical work activities
liaising with suppliers of raw materials and
Science & pharmaceuticals
responding to customer requirements,
Systems developer
The role may also involve creating
government-funded research institutions,
Systems developers work on the internal
technical specifications and test plans, writing
environmental agencies and research.
operations of computers, using existing
and testing code and then refining and
systems or incorporating new technologies
rewriting as necessary and writing systems
Typical work activities
to meet particular needs, often as advised by
to control the scheduling of jobs on a
Specific activities vary according to the size
a systems analyst. They test both hardware
mainframe computer or to control the
and type of educational institution, e.g.
and software systems, and diagnose and
access allowed to users or remote systems.
experiments tend to be less complex in
resolve system faults.
Other typical duties include writing
schools than in universities. The range of
The role also covers writing diagnostic
operational documentation with technical
tasks usually includes liaising with academic
programs and designing and writing code
authors, maintaining systems by monitoring
staff to discuss timetables, equipment
for operating systems and software to
and correcting software defects and
requirements and work plans, running trials
ensure efficiency. When required, they make
working closely with other staff, such as
of experiments prior to classes and then
recommendations for future developments.
project managers, graphic artists, designers,
demonstrating techniques for experiments
Depending on the type of organisation,
developers, systems analysts, and sales
and preparing equipment and chemicals
developers can become either systems or
and marketing professionals.
before lessons – from test tubes to state-
applications specialists.
There may also be a requirement to
of-the-art microscopes.
The work undertaken by systems
consult clients/colleagues concerning the
Other typical duties include maintaining
developers is generally of a highly complex
maintenance and performance of software
and repairing equipment and laboratory
and technical nature, and involves
systems and with a view to writing or
apparatus, record keeping, e.g. for students’
the application of computer science
modifying current operating systems.
practical sessions, tracking methods, results,
and mathematics in an environment
Systems developers may also
etc. and ensuring that equipment is properly
that is constantly evolving because of
be responsible for investigating new
cleaned and that chemicals, drugs and other
technological advances.
technologies and continually updating
materials are appropriately stored.
Job titles and descriptions in IT are not
technical knowledge and skills by attending
The role may also consist of cataloguing
standardised. Systems developers may be
in-house and/or external courses, reading
recordings and making them available
called systems programmers or engineers,
manuals and accessing new applications.
when requested (if the department houses audiovisual resources, supporting the
web or games developers. Alternatively,
work of teachers in classes and laboratory
the programming language they use may become part of their title, such as Java
Teaching laboratory technician
sessions and giving technical advice to
or C# developer. The work of a systems
A teaching laboratory technician works in
staff and students, as well as working with
developer can also form part of a software
all kinds of educational institutions including
individual students and supporting them
engineer or multimedia programmer’s role.
secondary schools, further education
on research projects.
Depending on the company, a systems
colleges and universities. Their tasks involve
Teaching laboratory technicians may also
developer may have a more defined role
supporting the work of science teachers/
be responsible for managing the stock control
and work within a group of IT specialists,
lecturers and their students to ensure that
of chemicals and equipment, contributing to
which can include systems analysts and
they make the best use of the time they spend
high-level research, if working at university
systems designers, or they may work solely
in the laboratory, use equipment safely and
level, and ensuring that all health and safety
on testing systems.
accurately record the results of their work.
procedures are understood and followed
The role mainly involves providing
correctly. Additional duties may include
Typical work activities
technical support, ensuring that equipment
coordinating work in the laboratory to ensure
Tasks vary according to the type of
is functioning properly and is ready to use,
that efficient use is made of equipment.
organisation and size of employer but
and that the right materials are available
Senior and lead technicians tend to take
may typically involve analysing user
for particular lessons. Sometimes laboratory
on more managerial work. This may include
requirements, researching, designing and
technicians work closely with students to
budgeting and ordering resources, conducting
writing new software programs, testing
explain or demonstrate experiments or how
risk assessments and carrying out staff
new programs and fault finding. Additional
to use equipment as well as helping teachers
supervision and training.
activities typically consist of evaluating the
with a class and supporting individual
software and systems that make computers
students on research projects.
and hardware work, developing existing
The role of scientific laboratory
Toxicologist
programs by analysing and identifying
technician is similar to the teaching technician
Toxicologists plan and carry out laboratory
areas for modification, integrating existing
but they tend to work more in large public
and field studies to identify, monitor and
software products and getting incompatible
limited companies, in industry, hospitals,
evaluate the impact of toxic materials and
platforms to work together.
specific government departments or
radiation on human and animal health,
and carrying out in vivo and in vitro tests,
technology. Careers in toxicology are divided
as well as using biochemical, immunological,
into eight broad areas:
molecular biological or specialised microscopic
• industrial;
techniques to help assess safety.
• pharmaceutical;
The role may also entail using experimental
• academic/university;
data to assess a drug’s toxicity and create a
• clinical;
safety profile, and balancing potential benefits
• forensic;
against any risks.
• regulatory;
Toxicologists in the NHS (also see NHS
• occupational;
Careers) are responsible for the scientific
• ecotoxicology.
identification, measurement and study of the
CHAPTER 2 | jobs directory
the environment, and the impact of future
effects of harmful chemicals, biological agents Typical work activities
and drug overdoses on the human body.
Depending on the specific career area,
They plan and carry out investigations to
tasks may include isolating, identifying and
determine the impact of toxic materials and
quantifying toxic substances or radiation and/
advise on the treatment of affected patients.
or any harmful effect they have on biological materials, animals, plants or ecosystems. Additional activities typically consist of planning and conducting laboratory or field experiments or observations of plants and animals in the field, and on in vivo (use of laboratory animals) and in vitro (use of bacterial and cell culture) biological systems. Toxicologists may also be responsible for analysing and evaluating statistical data and researching scientific literature and carrying out risk analyses, assessing toxicity and creating safety profiles. In addition, their typical responsibilities include writing reports and scientific papers, presenting findings and, in the case of forensic work, giving evidence in court. The role may also involve developing models to predict the long-term fate and effect of chemicals within an ecosystem, advising on the safe handling of toxic substances and radiation, in production or in the event of accident, and working collaboratively in multidisciplinary project teams with other scientists, technicians and colleagues. to liaise with regulatory authorities to ensure compliance with local, national and international regulations. In the pharmaceutical industry, any newly prepared material must, for safety’s sake, be considered to have a toxic potential until proven otherwise. Work activities on potential new drugs to determine whether they are safe to test on humans
196 / 197
may include conducting risk assessments
Science & pharmaceuticals
There is also likely to be a requirement
Teaching & education
Overview of the sector in the UK The teaching and education sector can be divided into
holiday a year, and lecturers in FE and HE usually have at least
the following main areas:
35 days’ annual leave plus public holidays. University lecturers
• pre-school education;
are expected to pursue research and scholarship outside teaching
• education in schools;
hours and in vacations.
• further education (FE);
Administration and other support staff in educational
• lifelong learning;
institutions usually have the same working hours as similar roles
• higher education (HE).
in other sectors, though some overtime may be required at busy periods. Part-time hours and flexible working are often available.
Education and training also takes place in non-school settings such as hospitals, prisons and the workplace.
Opportunities exist in direct teaching or training roles and in
Although teaching is the main area of work, opportunities
various kinds of administration and support. Teaching and
also exist in teaching-related roles, such as teaching assistants
training posts are available in:
in schools, and trainers and educational psychologists, who
•n urseries, in both the public and private sector;
work throughout the sector. Opportunities also exist in areas
•p rimary and secondary schools, in both the public
such as policymaking, administration and technical support.
and private sector;
The primary and secondary education systems in
• c olleges of further and higher education;
England, Wales and Northern Ireland are similar in their
•u niversities;
curricula and administration. Scotland has a different
• t he National Health Service;
system, with its own curriculum and qualifications.
•p risons and detention centres; • t he armed forces – teaching the children of armed
What’s it like working in the sector?
forces personnel;
The teaching and education sector is a challenging, rewarding
•p rofessional bodies, unions and training organisations;
and inspiring area in which to work. Many educators enjoy
•m useums, galleries and other cultural organisations
their work because of the great satisfaction that comes from imparting knowledge about a subject they are passionate
such as the National Trust; • charities such as the RSPCA.
about and helping individuals to learn and develop. Salaries in education, including teaching, are comparable to those of
Teachers can also work as private tutors on a one-to-one
other graduate jobs in the public sector and related professions.
basis, on a freelance basis or by being employed by a
Working hours in education are generally Monday to
tutoring company.
Friday and usually between 8am and 6pm. Teachers in school
For more information on teaching in schools see the
often spend some evenings and weekends preparing lessons
Teaching Agency, and for further education lecturing see
and marking students’ work. Teachers are entitled to 13 weeks’
the Learning and Skills Improvement Service (LSIS).
For those who are not attached to a specific institution, there
available, often in HE and FE institutions. These include:
are roles available in:
• management and administration;
• i nspection;
• events and hospitality;
• c entral and local government as, for example, an educational
• finance; • libraries;
psychologist, educational adviser or special needs officer; • e xamining, verifying and marking.
• research and enterprise; • student support;
What are the key issues in the sector?
• career guidance;
There is a fairly constant demand for graduates in teaching,
• educational psychology;
but over recent years there have been shortages of teachers in
• IT and technical support;
science, mathematics, technology and languages. The availability
• procurement;
of teaching posts varies between the regions and nations of
• estates management.
the UK.
Graduate jobs
as managing and developing collections
Early years teacher
of books and journals (both paper and
Early years, or nursery, teachers work in
electronic), as well as websites and managing
pre-school, nursery and reception classes
Academic librarian
buildings, furniture and equipment.
with children aged between three and five.
Academic librarians (also known as subject
Other typical activities include
They are responsible for developing and
librarians) work in higher education, further
managing staff, which may involve
implementing work schemes and lesson
education and research institutes attached to
recruitment and selection, appraisals,
plans in line with the requirements of the
academic institutions. They manage, organise,
support and development, disciplinary
early years foundation stage (EYFS). This
evaluate and disseminate information,
action, staff rotas and training. There may
involves motivating children to learn and
providing support to members of an academic
also be a requirement to manage budgets
imaginatively using resources in order to
community including students, researchers
and, in some cases, purchase resources,
facilitate learning.
and lecturing staff.
as well as to maintain relationships with
Early years teachers develop the social
They may be responsible for a specific
external bodies, such as suppliers.
and communication skills of children and
academic subject, developing specialist
Further likely tasks consist of
provide a safe and secure environment
knowledge and other functions, such as
contributing to academic course
in which the child can learn. They build
resource ordering, loans, specialist collections,
development and liaising with academic
and maintain relationships with parents/
ICT systems and library projects. A main
departments, managing and supporting
guardians to further support pupils as well
role involves facilitating and supporting
the provision of reading lists and allocating
as operate within multi-agency networks
learning by teaching information retrieval
length of loans and creating, updating
to ensure the correct support is available.
skills to students and staff within classrooms
and managing information resources,
Early years teachers record observations
or virtual learning environments. Academic
both electronic and printed.
and summarise the children’s achievements.
librarians spend considerable time working
Academic librarians may also be
They focus on optimum child development
with electronic resources, involving database
responsible for selecting, acquiring and
and preparation for a successful transition
management and web page development.
cataloguing information using library and
to primary school education.
The role is also very customer-focused.
information software, assisting researchers Early years teachers teach all areas of the
Academic librarians often have specialist
delivering information and learning skills
foundation stage, which is focused on
responsibility for an academic subject
courses for students and staff.
helping the children to achieve early
or function, even at basic-level posts.
Additional responsibilities typically
learning goals. Typical activities include
Other librarian roles include research,
consist of dealing with user enquiries, which
motivating and stimulating the children’s
electronic, resources, systems and other
may involve one-on-one advice sessions,
learning abilities, often encouraging learning
professional posts within the fields of
keeping up to date with relevant professional
through experience, providing pastoral care
acquisitions and cataloguing. The role
developments in the library sector and
and support to children and providing them
typically involves a number of tasks, such
participating in professional groups.
with a secure environment in which to learn.
198 / 199
Typical work activities
printed resources and the internet and
Teaching & education
with literature searches using databases, Typical work activities
CHAPTER 2 | jobs directory
There is a wide range of administration and support roles
Other typical activities include devising and
units. There are a huge number of possible
Educational psychologist
producing visual aids and teaching resources,
job titles within education administration
An educational psychologist is concerned
organising learning materials and resources
and job descriptions are equally diverse.
with helping children or young people who are experiencing problems within
and making imaginative use of them. The role is also likely to include assisting
Typical work activities
an educational setting with the aim of
with the development of children’s personal/
The range of administrative roles in
enhancing their learning. Challenges may
social and language abilities, as well as
the education sector is enormous and
include social or emotional problems or
supporting the development of children’s
responsibilities can vary greatly depending
learning difficulties. Work is with individual
basic skills, including physical coordination,
on the type of institution and the section
clients or groups, advising teachers, parents,
speech and communication.
or department in which you work.
social workers and other professionals.
Early years teachers typically stimulate
The responsibilities listed below give an idea
Client work involves an assessment of the
children’s mathematical and creative
of some typical tasks in various different roles,
child using observation, interviews and test
development through stories, songs, games,
but in education administration it is unlikely
materials. Educational psychologists offer a
drawing and imaginative play and encourage
that any two jobs will be exactly the same.
wide range of appropriate interventions, such
children’s curiosity and knowledge.
Tasks may include servicing committees
as learning programmes and collaborative
Other typical duties include working
including academic boards, governing bodies
work with teachers or parents. They also
with others, including teaching assistants
and task groups, assisting with recruitment,
provide in-service training for teachers
and/or nursery nurses as well as volunteer
public or alumni relations and marketing
and other professionals on issues such
helpers, to plan and coordinate work both
activities and administering the ‘student
as behaviour and stress management.
indoors and outdoors, sharing knowledge
lifecycle’ from registration or admission
Work can also involve research and advising
gained with other practitioners and parents
to graduation or leaving.
on educational provisions and policies.
and observing, assessing and recording
Additional typical activities consist
each child’s progress.
of providing administrative support to
Typical work activities
Additional likely responsibilities involve
an academic team of lecturers, tutors
Tasks typically involve assessing learning and
attending in-service training, ensuring the
or teachers, as well as drafting and
emotional needs by observing and consulting
health and safety of children and staff is
interpreting regulations and dealing with
with multi-agency teams to advise on the
maintained during all activities, both inside
queries and complaints procedures and
best approaches and provisions to support
and outside the nursery/school, and keeping
coordinating the various examination
learning and development, in addition to
up to date with changes in the curriculum
and assessment processes.
developing and supporting therapeutic and
and developments in best practice.
Education administrators are likely to
behaviour-management programmes.
Some early years/nursery teachers will
be responsible for maintaining high levels
Other typical activities include designing
make home visits prior to a child starting
of quality assurance, including course
and developing courses for parents, teachers
nursery/school and, where appropriate,
evaluation and course-approval procedures.
and others involved with the education of
might also visit providers of pre-school
The role may also involve using
children and young people on topics such as
care, such as day nurseries.
information systems and preparing reports
bullying, as well as designing and developing
and statistics for internal and external use, in
projects involving children and young people.
addition to participating in the development
Educational psychologists may also
Education administrator
of future information systems.
be responsible for writing reports to make
Education administrators organise and
Further responsibilities typically
formal recommendations on action to
manage the administration, support systems
include contributing to policy and planning,
be taken, including formal statements,
and activities that facilitate the effective
managing budgets and ensuring financial
and advising, persuading, supporting
running of an educational institution.
systems are followed and purchasing goods
and negotiating with teachers, parents
The majority are based in higher education
and equipment, as required, as well as
and other education professionals.
or further education, with additional
processing invoices.
The role may also encompass attending
opportunities also available in schools
There is likely to be a requirement
case conferences involving multidisciplinary
and private colleges.
to supervise staff, liaise with other
teams on how best to meet the social,
Administrators work in areas such
administrative staff, academic colleagues
emotional, behavioural and learning needs
as admissions, quality assurance, data
and students, as well as with partner
of the children and young people in their care.
management and examinations or in a
institutions, other institutions, external
Additional typical responsibilities
specialist department such as finance,
agencies, government departments and
include prioritising effectiveness – the
careers or human resources. All of these
prospective students. Typical tasks may
context and environment that influence the
can be either centrally based or within
also include organising and facilitating a
child’s development are seen as increasingly
faculties, departments or other smaller
variety of educational or social activities.
important. There is also likely to be a
Typical work activities
They may also deliver presentations in
and facilitate meetings, discussions and
Teachers of English as a foreign language use
schools, or host groups at relevant sites,
courses, in addition to developing and
a range of course books and materials and
such as nature reserves.
reviewing policies.
also a variety of audiovisual aids. There is a
Others work with a wider range of age
Further elements of the role may include
strong emphasis on dialogue and role-playing,
groups, for example leading guided nature
conducting active research and formulating
but more formal exercises, language games
walks for visitors or organising events and
interventions that focus on applying
and literature are also used.
awareness campaigns. Training volunteers and
knowledge, skills and expertise to support
The content of lessons varies depending
community groups involved in environmental
local and national initiatives.
on the reason why the students are learning
work such as conservation projects is also a
A further possible aspect of the
English, e.g. whether it is for business use for
common part of the job.
educational psychologist’s role is to
adults, school work for children, etc. The aim
foster the development and application
of each lesson is to encourage the students
Typical work activities
of effective interventions to promote
to communicate with each other using the
Most environmental education posts
psychological wellbeing, social, emotional
structures and vocabulary they have learnt,
include the development and marketing of
and behavioural development, and to raise
and to improve the four basic language skills:
education programmes as well as the practical
educational standards.
listening; speaking; reading; and writing.
delivery of them to a target audience.
Typical tasks that may be carried out include
Tasks often include researching and
classroom management, planning, preparing
developing educational programmes
English as a foreign language teacher
and delivering lessons to a range of classes
and resources for schools, adults, families,
and age groups and preparing and setting
community groups or visitors to sites of
Teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL)
tests, examination papers, and exercises.
special environmental interest. Other activities
involves teaching adults and children whose
Other typical duties include marking
typically consist of promoting educational
first or main language is not English. This can
and providing appropriate feedback on
programmes and resources to the target
be done either in the UK or abroad and the
oral and written work, devising, writing
audience through leaflets, websites and
students may be learning English for either
and producing new materials, including
newsletters, liaising with colleagues, teachers
business or leisure reasons.
audio and visual resources, and organising
and community groups on the design and
Teaching English to speakers of other
and getting involved in social and cultural
delivery of educational programmes and
languages (TESOL) is also a widely used term
activities such as sports competitions,
giving talks in schools or to community
and is used to mostly mean the same thing
school parties, dinners and excursions.
groups on environmental issues.
as TEFL. TESOL is also sometimes specifically
The role may also consist of attending
Additional aspects of the role may
used though to refer to teaching English to
and contributing to training sessions,
include teaching groups and interpreting
people who are living in the UK but who
participating in marketing events for the
the natural environment for them on site
do not speak English as a first language.
language school and preparing information
by leading guided walks and answering
These students are most commonly refugees
for inspection visits and other quality
questions, organising events and activities
and immigrants and need to learn the
assurance exercises.
to raise awareness of environmental issues
language in order to help them settle into
There may also be a requirement for
and training others, such as teachers,
the society of the country. Their courses
freelance teaching on a one-to-one basis,
in the use of resources and in delivering
are often government-funded.
and for basic administration, such as keeping
educational sessions.
Teaching English as a second language
student registers and attendance records.
Environmental education officers
(TESL) or teaching English as an additional
may also be responsible for researching
language (TEAL) may also be terms that are
and collating scientific data, recruiting, supervising and working with volunteers
thing: teaching English to someone whose
Environmental education officer
native language is not English.
Environmental education officers are involved
depending on the size and structure of
Teachers of English as a foreign language
in making people aware of environmental
the organisation.
can work in a variety of settings with different
issues, promoting conservation and
There may also be a requirement
age ranges. This can include commercial
sustainability, and enhancing the public’s
to act as a point of contact for teachers,
language schools, schools and institutions
enjoyment of the environment through
educationalists and colleagues, respond
of further and higher education throughout
teaching and interpreting the natural world.
to requests for information on educational
the UK and overseas. Some may also teach
The range of activities carried out in the role
issues and generate income for projects
in industry, while others are self-employed.
varies hugely from job to job. Some officers
through fundraising activities, investigating
Classes are usually taught in English, even
work mainly with schools, giving talks and
and bidding for external funding. Further
with beginners.
taking part in and developing projects.
typical duties include evaluating the
used but they generally all refer to the same
CHAPTER 2 | jobs directory
requirement to liaise with other professionals
and managing other members of staff – Teaching & education 200 / 201
effectiveness of programmes and writing
role as a personal tutor to students and
new methods of teaching to reflect changes
reports for your organisation or funding
conducting tutorials on a one-to-one basis
in research, designing, preparing and
bodies, managing budgets for projects and
with learners.
developing teaching materials and delivering
educational programmes and carrying out risk
There may also be a requirement to
lectures, seminars and tutorials.
assessments, particularly for outdoor activities.
plan additional support for students, as
Additional duties typically include
At a more senior level, you might also
necessary, to contribute to course team
assessing students’ coursework, setting
be involved in advising on and drafting
meetings to monitor, review and evaluate
and marking examinations and supporting
environmental education policies and
relevant courses and to represent the college
students through a pastoral/advisory role.
strategies for your organisation or the
at parents’ evenings, taster days, open days
The role may also involve undertaking
wider community.
and careers or education conventions.
personal research projects and actively
Further education lecturers are also
contributing to the institution’s research
typically responsible for maintaining
profile, writing up research and preparing
Further education lecturer
knowledge of, and implementing, college
it for publication and supervising students’
Further education (FE) lecturers are
policies, interviewing potential students
research activities.
responsible for teaching one or more
and conducting diagnostic assessments as
Higher education lecturers are also
subjects in any of the following settings:
necessary, liaising with other educational
likely to undertake continuous professional
• a general or specialist college of FE;
professionals and organisations and
development (CPD) and participate in staff
• sixth form colleges;
organising work experience and carrying
training activities, as well as undertaking
• adult and community education centres;
out learner assessments in the workplace,
administrative tasks related to the
• universities;
as appropriate. They may also be required
department, such as student admissions,
• prisons and youth offender organisations;
to undertake a range of administrative tasks.
induction programmes and involvement
• voluntary and charity organisations;
in committees and boards.
• work-based learning.
There may also be a requirement to
Higher education lecturer
manage and supervise staff – at a senior
They teach at all levels, from entry level
Higher education (HE) lecturers facilitate
level this may include the role of head of
to foundation degrees and professional
learning and carry out research activities
department. Additional typical responsibilities
qualifications. Courses may lead to general,
in universities and some colleges of further
include representing the institution at
vocational, or academic qualifications which
education (FE). They teach academic or
professional conferences and seminars,
prepare students for work or higher education
vocational subjects to undergraduate and
and contributing to these as necessary and
(HE), or may support personal interest, e.g.
postgraduate students aged 18 upwards.
establishing collaborative links outside the
hobby or leisure subjects.
Teaching methods include lectures, seminars,
university with industrial, commercial and
Although FE lecturers work mainly
tutorials, practical laboratory demonstrations,
public organisations.
with post-16 and/or adult learners, they are
fieldwork and e-learning. Multimedia
increasingly expected to work with younger
technologies are increasingly used.
learners within the 14–19-year-old curriculum.
Most HE lecturers pursue their own
Learning mentor
areas of research and develop these in order
Learning mentors provide a complementary
Typical work activities
to contribute to the wider research activities
service to teachers and other staff, addressing
Tasks include planning and preparing lessons,
of their department/institution. Many aim to
the needs of learners who require assistance
teaching across a range of qualification
have their research published, either in the
in overcoming barriers to learning in order
types and levels, in day or evening classes or
form of a book or scholarly article, and this
to achieve their full potential. They work
open access workshops and researching and
can help raise the profile of their employing
with a range of learners, but give priority
developing new topics, courses and teaching
HE institution.
to those who need the most help,
materials, including online resources.
Administrative tasks take up a significant
especially those experiencing multiple
Additional typical activities involve
part of the working day. Many lecturers also
disadvantages. The variety of issues covered
teaching large and small groups of learners
take on a pastoral role with their students.
is vast, ranging from punctuality, absence,
from a range of backgrounds, abilities and
As HE lecturers progress along their career
challenging behaviour and abuse to working
ages, monitoring, assessing and marking
paths, they may be expected to undertake
with able and gifted learners who are
students’ work and maintaining accurate
a managerial role.
experiencing difficulties. Learning mentors are predominantly
records and monitoring students’ progress. The work may also consist of setting
Typical work activities
education-based (in primary, secondary
and overseeing examinations and liaising
Work activities vary according to individual
and further education settings) but have
with awarding bodies to ensure quality
areas of responsibility and research but will
a wider remit including families and the
standards are met, carrying out a pastoral
often include developing and implementing
wider community. They work with children
music and discos, during lunchtimes or as
move to a secondary school. In Scotland,
small or large groups. Sometimes learning
out-of-school activities.
primary school classes are organised by
mentors work in offender learning and
Further responsibilities are likely to
age from Primary 1 (ages 4-5) to Primary
will also work with adult learners in the
include organising drop-in ‘offload’ sessions
7 (ages 11-12). Tasks are broadly the same
education system.
for learners, where they can talk about a
for all primary school teachers and include
Some learning mentors are employed
particular issue, providing group activities
teaching all areas of the primary curriculum,
by learning providers but providers may also
such as anger-management classes,
taking responsibility for the progress of a
use volunteers, including peer volunteers.
maintaining accurate records and preparing
class of primary-age pupils and organising
written reports and evaluations.
the classroom and learning resources and
Typical work activities
The work may also entail helping to
creating displays to encourage a positive
Learning mentors undertake a wide-ranging
secure funding to support children’s learners’
learning environment.
role. Tasks vary depending on the nature of
additional educational needs, managing
The role also involves planning,
the job, for example the level of expertise
your own professional development by
preparing and presenting lessons that
required and complexity of the work
undertaking relevant training and sharing
cater for the needs of the whole ability
expected. For example, some posts require
best practice with other learning mentors
range within their class, motivating pupils
a degree and experience of working with
and helping with transition activities for
with enthusiastic, imaginative presentation
vulnerable and challenging young people
learners moving to secondary schools.
and maintaining discipline.
and will expect post holders to manage
Primary school teachers are also
their own case load and plan, deliver and
responsible for preparing and marking work
measure interventions to support the young
Primary school teacher
to facilitate positive pupil development,
people they work with. Others will require
Primary school teachers develop schemes of
meeting requirements for the assessment
GCSEs in English and maths and will expect
work and lesson plans in line with curriculum
and recording of pupils’ development and
mentors to work in a supporting role.
objectives. They facilitate learning by
providing feedback to parents and carers
Tasks include liaising with staff to identify
establishing a relationship with pupils and
on a pupil’s progress at parents’ evenings
learners who would benefit from mentoring,
by their organisation of learning resources
and other meetings.
helping learners who are underperforming in
and the classroom learning environment.
Other typical responsibilities include
their subjects on a one-to-one basis outside
Primary school teachers develop
coordinating activities and resources within
the classroom and implementing strategies
and foster the appropriate skills and
a specific area of the curriculum, and
and supporting learners in self-esteem and
social abilities to enable the optimum
supporting colleagues in the delivery of
confidence-building activities.
development of children, according to
this specialist area, working with others
The role is also likely to encompass
age, ability and aptitude. They assess and
to plan and coordinate work and keeping
listening to and helping learners resolve a
record progress and prepare pupils for
up to date with changes and developments
range of issues that are creating barriers to
examinations. They link pupils’ knowledge
in the structure of the curriculum.
learning, drawing up agreed action plans
to earlier learning and develop ways to
There is also likely to be a requirement
with learners, outlining the aims of the
encourage it further, and challenge and
to organise and take part in school events,
mentoring and monitoring their progress.
inspire pupils to help them deepen their
outings and activities which may take place
Additional activities typically include
knowledge and understanding.
at weekends or in the evening, as well as
monitoring attendance and punctuality of
to liaise with colleagues and work flexibly,
learners, visiting parents at home to discuss
Typical work activities
particularly in smaller schools.
issues and problems and running group
Primary schools in England and Wales are
Additional typical activities include
sessions and workshops for parents at school.
usually divided into:
working with parents and school governors
Learning mentors may also be
• Foundation Stage (ages 3–5, nursery
(in England, Northern Ireland and Wales)
responsible for advising parents on behaviour
CHAPTER 2 | jobs directory
or young adults on a one-to-one basis or in
and reception);
or School Boards (in Scotland) to maximise
• Key Stage 1 (ages 5–7, years 1 and 2);
their involvement in the school and the
with other learning mentors and teachers
• Key Stage 2 (ages 7–11, years 3–6).
development of resources for the school
and relevant external agencies and liaising
with other professionals such as education Lower primary usually refers to the
welfare officers and educational
e.g. educational psychologists, the police
Foundation Stage and Key Stage 1 and
psychologists, if required.
and other social services.
upper primary is Key Stage 2. In England
There may also be a requirement to set
there is sometimes a middle tier, so that
up breakfast clubs and after-school clubs as
children go to a primary school up until
Private music teacher
well as running extracurricular activities, such
the age of 8 or 9, transfer to a middle
Private music teachers provide instrumental,
as homework clubs, reading clubs, sports,
school until the age of 12 or 13 and then
vocal and music training for children and
202 / 203
with relevant professionals and individuals,
Teaching & education
strategies and parenting skills, networking
adults of all ages. They may work at a variety
with national objectives to ensure that pupils
support, or require an advanced programme
of levels teaching different musical skills to
learn. They also encourage, monitor and
of education, in order to complete their
either individuals or groups.
record the progress of their class.
learning successfully. For example, SEN
Teaching may take place in a school,
Teachers must also keep up to date
teachers may work with individuals who
college or a community-based setting.
with developments in their subject area,
are physically disabled, sensory impaired
Private music teachers may travel to various
new resources, methods and national
(i.e. deaf/blind), have speech and language
locations to teach students (may be called
objectives. Teachers liaise and network
difficulties such as dyslexia, have a mental
peripatetic music teachers) or may work
with other professionals, parents and
disability such as autism, are emotionally
in their own home. Teachers may be hired
carers both informally and formally.
vulnerable, have behavioural difficulties
by a local authority music service to teach
or have a combination of these disabilities.
in schools or be employed by a privately
Typical work activities
However, an SEN teacher may also work
or publicly funded music centre. It is also
Typical work activities consist of preparing
with gifted and talented individuals.
possible to be self-employed. Many private
and delivering lessons to a range of classes
A key aspect of working in this field
music teachers undertake a combination
including putting up displays in the classroom
is identifying individual needs and being
of these roles.
and marking work, giving appropriate
responsible for creating a safe, stimulating
feedback and maintaining records of pupils’
and supportive learning environment.
Typical work activities
progress and development.
Typical work activities may vary depending
Other typical activities include
Typical work activities
on the type of work, client and setting but
researching new topic areas, maintaining up-
The work of an SEN teacher is often
are likely to include planning individual
to-date subject knowledge and then devising
challenging and varied and may involve
lessons and schemes of work for pupils
and writing new curriculum materials.
teaching either individuals or small groups
and developing knowledge of materials
Teachers may also carry out pastoral
of pupils, preparing lessons and resources
and repertoire for students at different
duties, such as taking on the role of form
and marking and assessing work.
stages of their musical development.
tutor, and supporting pupils on an individual
Other activities include developing and
The role may also involve teaching
basis through academic or personal
adapting conventional teaching methods
individual and/or group lessons lasting
difficulties, in addition to managing pupil
to meet the individual needs of pupils and
from 15 minutes to an hour or longer,
behaviour in the classroom and on school
using special equipment and facilities, such
usually incorporating elements of general
premises, and applying appropriate and
as audiovisual materials and computers to
musicianship, such as ear training and
effective measures in cases of misbehaviour.
stimulate interest in learning.
theory, as well as instrumental technique
They are also likely to be responsible for
The role may also entail using specialist
and interpretation.
preparing pupils for qualifications and external
skills, such as teaching Braille to pupils with
Other typical activities consist of
examination and supervising and supporting
visual impairments or sign language and
preparing pupils for performances,
the work of teaching assistants, trainee
lip reading to students who have hearing
examinations, auditions and festivals,
teachers and newly qualified teachers (NQTs).
impairments, in addition to working with
arranging lesson schedules, collecting
Typical tasks may also include
the classroom teacher to define curriculum-
fees and entering students for examinations
participating in and organising extracurricular
appropriate activities for the pupils.
and negotiating time and accommodation
activities, as well as participating in
SEN teachers may also be responsible
slots for school-based music lessons, as
departmental meetings, parents’ evenings
for assessing children who have long- or
well as working alongside classroom
and whole school training events. There may
short-term learning difficulties, working
teachers on music activities.
also be a requirement to liaise with other
with colleagues to identify individual
There may also be a need to extend
professionals, such as learning mentors,
pupils’ special needs and liaising with other
your own musical experience by becoming
careers advisers, educational psychologists
professionals, such as social workers, speech
familiar with the music your pupils listen to,
and education welfare officers.
and language therapists, physiotherapists
by learning another instrument, by becoming
Further likely duties consist of undergoing
and educational psychologists.
familiar with other musical styles and by
regular observations and participating in
They may also be involved in assisting
developing your improvisation or vocal skills.
regular in-service training.
in severely disabled pupils’ personal care/ medical needs. Another aspect of the role is administration, including updating and
Secondary school teacher A secondary school teacher teaches one or
Special educational needs teacher
more national curriculum subjects to pupils
A special educational needs (SEN) teacher
aged 11–16, or up to 19 in schools with
is specifically employed to work with
Teaching laboratory technician
sixth forms. Teachers plan lessons in line
children and young adults who need extra
See Science & Pharmaceuticals section.
maintaining records on pupils’ progress.
CHAPTER 2 | jobs directory
Transport & logistics
Overview of the sector in the UK Transport and logistics is a growing sector that plays a major
spending time in airports. However, many managers in transport
role in the UK and global economy. There was significant
and logistics work in offices, but they may be located in seaports,
investment into the transport infrastructure in the UK leading into the 2012 Olympics, and hundreds of thousands of vacancies are expected to be created by 2020. There are also increasing opportunities to work globally.
airports, distribution warehouses and/or other large buildings; • long working hours – employees often work out of normal hours including weekends, early mornings and evenings; •w ide-ranging salaries – the range of salaries within each
The transport and logistics sector comprises freight
occupation varies quite significantly. For example, the average
logistics and passenger transport. Logistics is in operation
wage for an LGV driver is £25,000 however the range is from
24 hours a day, seven days a week and supports all sectors
£16,000 to £33,000 for more experienced drivers, according
across the whole economy. Transport underpins all industries
to Skills for Logistics.
by helping employees get to work in the first place, but it also plays an invaluable part in the tourism sector.
What are the key issues in the sector?
According to the UK Commission for Employment
Only 16 per cent of the workforce in the sector are educated to
and Skills (UKCES) 2012 Transport and Storage Sector
degree level or above, and this sector is one of the least likely to
Skills Assessment, the sector employs 1.45 million people,
take on those looking for their first job after leaving education.
which makes up 5 per cent of total employment in the UK.
That said, large firms with more than 100 employees are most
Employment opportunities in transport and logistics are
likely to take on graduates straight out of university.
grouped into:
The UK Commission for Employment and Skills (UKCES)
• air transport;
2012 Transport and Storage Sector Skills Assessment states that, as in many other sectors, there is a big demand for
• postal and courier activities;
younger, replacement employees due to an ageing workforce.
• warehousing and support activities;
However, employers will need to challenge the current
• water transport.
perception that young people aren’t attracted to working in the sector.
What’s it like working in the sector?
Organisations in transport and logistics are the second-least
This sector is dominated by small to medium-sized
likely, out of all the sectors in the economy, to have a formal process
enterprises (SMEs). Only 1 per cent of organisations employ
of identifying talented individuals. This means it may be difficult to
over 250 people, while 37 per cent of all organisations in
progress your career.
the sector are sole traders, where the business is owned
However, larger organisations are more likely to have schemes
and run by one person.
that enable individuals to find opportunities to progress. In addition, there is a continuing struggle in the transport and logistics sector
Graduates entering the transport and logistics sector can expect: to reduce carbon emissions and contribute to a greener economy. • d ifferent working environments – if you are working in air
This will require either new technology or changes in workforce behaviour to be more resourceful in the future.
204 / 205
transport as a pilot or cabin crew you will be travelling and
Teaching & education / Transport & logistics
• land transport;
Graduate jobs
to passengers, as well as selling duty-free
Typical work activities
goods and advising passengers of any
Tasks may very depending on whether you
allowance restrictions at their destination.
work as an area, approach or aerodrome
Air cabin crew
Further responsibilities consist of
controller, but they typically include keeping
The role of an air cabin crew member is
reassuring passengers and ensuring that
radio and/or radar contact with aircraft,
to provide excellent customer service to
they follow safety procedures correctly
directing the movement of aircraft en route
passengers while ensuring their comfort
in emergency situations, giving first aid
or at an airport and instructing aircraft
and safety throughout the flight. They are
to passengers where necessary, ensuring
to climb or descend and allocating final
trained to deal with security and emergency
passengers disembark safely at the end of a
cruising level.
situations that may arise and can administer
flight and checking that there is no luggage
Other typical activities include providing
first aid to passengers.
left in the overhead lockers. There may also
information to aircraft about weather
Cabin crew ensure that all emergency
be a requirement to complete paperwork,
conditions, making sure that minimum
equipment is in working order prior to take
including writing a flight report.
distances are maintained between planes
off and that there are enough supplies for
and handling unexpected events, emergencies
passengers. They also help passengers to
and unscheduled traffic.
board the plane and give a demonstration
Air traffic controller
Approach controllers deal with
of safety procedures and equipment.
Air traffic controllers manage aircraft
instrument landing systems, which allow
Air cabin crew strive to make the flying
through all aspects of their flight with the
some planes to make automatic landings,
experience a pleasant one for the passengers
priority of safety, followed by other aspects
and ensure that planes are placed in
and will serve refreshments and meals and
such as ensuring arrivals and departures are
holding patterns when airports are busy.
sell gifts and duty-free items. Cabin crew
on time. They use navigation and surveillance
Aerodrome controllers guide the aircraft
may work on short- or long-haul flights.
to communicate advice, information and
through landing and to its parking stand
instructions to pilots via radio.
at the terminal. Their roles may be further
Typical work activities
Air traffic controllers are well known
sub-divided into air control and ground
Tasks may vary slightly depending on
for working in control towers at airports,
control at very busy airports. Their activities
whether it is a short- or long-haul flight
but the majority actually work in area control
include controlling movements onto and
and the size of the team you are working
centres. They are responsible for the en route
off runways, as well as handling the ground
in. However, they typically include attending
stage of the aircraft, using radar to track its
movement of planes around the terminals,
a pre-flight briefing, during which air cabin
exact position, keeping it safe in the airspace
and of vehicles around the airport.
crew are assigned their working positions
and providing the most efficient route.
for the upcoming flight.
There are also approach controllers who
Crew are also informed of flight details,
take over from the area controllers as the
Airline pilot
the schedule and if there are passengers with
aircraft is approaching the airport. They give
Airline pilots fly passengers and/or
any special requirements, such as diabetic
initial clearance for the aircraft to approach
cargo on long- or short-haul flights for
passengers, passengers in wheelchairs or
the airport and put all approaching aircraft
leisure, business or commercial purposes.
the number of infants on board.
into a sequence to create the most efficient
The aircraft is typically operated by
Additional activities include carrying
order for landing.
two pilots; one will be the captain
out pre-flight duties, including checking the
At the last stage, aerodrome controllers
who is the pilot in command, while the
safety equipment, ensuring the aircraft is
take over. They are the ones who are at
other will be the supporting first officer.
clean and tidy, ensuring that information in
the top of the control towers and they
The pilots usually take turns to fly the
the seat pockets is up to date and that all
guide the pilots in to make a safe landing.
plane to avoid fatigue, with one operating
meals and stock are on board.
They also ensure that the aircraft gets to its
the controls while the other speaks to
The role also includes welcoming
parking stand safely and that those leaving
air traffic control and completes the
passengers on board and directing them
the stands reach the runway safely. In some
paperwork. In some cases, such as long-
to their seats, informing passengers of the
busy airports, the aerodrome controllers are
haul flights, there may be three or four
aircraft safety procedures and ensuring that
divided into air control and ground control.
pilots on board so that the necessary
all hand luggage is securely stored away.
Air traffic controllers in the RAF, as well
breaks from flying can be taken.
Other duties consist of checking all
as ensuring that aircraft land and take off
The captain has the overall responsibility
passenger seat belts and galleys are secure
safely, make sure the air bases are maintained
for the safe and efficient operation of the
prior to take-off, making announcements on
and prepared for emergencies. They also
aircraft including crew and passengers.
behalf of the pilot and answering passenger
communicate with civilian air authorities to
Prior to the flight, pilots check flight
questions during the flight. Air cabin crew
ensure civilian aircraft can pass safely through
plans, ensure that the aircraft’s controls
also typically serve meals and refreshments
their airspace.
are operating efficiently and calculate
efficient and cost-effective transport
satellite systems to enable real-time tracking
also responsible for checking the weather
of goods. Freight forwarders arrange
of goods, arrange air transport for urgent
conditions and briefing cabin crew.
the best means of transport, taking
and high-value freight and managing the risk
into account the type of goods and
door to door, as well as arranging charters
Typical work activities
the customers’ delivery requirements.
for large-volume, out-of-gauge or project
The job of a pilot comes with heavy
They use the services of shipping
movements by air and sea.
responsibility and personal commitment.
lines, airlines and road and rail freight
Freight forwarders may act as broker
Stringent training courses have to be passed
operators. In some cases, the freight
in customs negotiations worldwide to guide
followed by recurrent training every six
forwarding company itself provides
the freight efficiently through complex
months in order to maintain the relevant
the service.
procedures, in addition to dealing with
licence required for the job.
Companies vary in size and type,
special arrangements for transporting
There is more to the role than just
from those operating on a national
delicate cargoes, such as livestock, food
flying the plane, which has to be done safely
and international basis to smaller,
and medical supplies. Their role may also
and economically. Tasks can also typically
more specialised firms, who deal with
involve arranging courier and specialist
include ensuring all information on the route,
particular types of goods or operate
hand-carry services, working closely with
weather, passengers and aircraft is received;
within particular geographical areas.
customers, colleagues and third parties to
using that information to create a flight plan
CHAPTER 2 | jobs directory
the required fuel for the flight. They are
ensure smooth operations to deadlines and acting as a consultant in customs matters.
to be taken and amount of fuel required,
Activities vary depending on the type
In addition, typical tasks may include
ensuring the fuel levels balance safety with
and size of employer but typically include
maintaining communication and control
economy; and supervising the loading and
investigating and planning the most
through all phases of the journey, including
fuelling of the aircraft.
appropriate route for a shipment, taking
the production of management reports and
Additional duties include ensuring
account of the perishable or hazardous
statistical and unit cost analysis, along with
all safety systems are working properly,
nature of the goods, cost, transit time
maintaining current knowledge of relevant
briefing the cabin crew before the flight and
and security, in addition to arranging
legislation, political situations and other
maintaining regular contact throughout the
appropriate packing, taking account of
factors that could affect the movement
flight and carrying out pre-flight checks on
climate, terrain, weight, nature of goods
of freight.
the navigation and operating systems.
and cost, and the delivery and warehousing
At more senior levels, the role may
Airline pilots are also responsible
of goods at their final destination.
also involve managing staff and overseeing
for communicating with air traffic control
Other typical duties consist of
activities within a department or specialising
before take-off and during flight and
negotiating contracts, transport and
in a particular area, such as sea freight or
landing, ensuring noise regulations are
handling costs, obtaining, checking and
air freight.
followed during take-off and landing
preparing documentation to meet customs
and understanding and interpreting
and insurance requirements, packing
data from instruments and controls.
specifications and compliance with overseas
IT consultant
Typical responsibilities also consist
countries’ regulations and fiscal regimes.
See Business, Consulting &
of making regular checks on the aircraft’s
The role may also involve offering
Management section.
technical performance and position, on
consolidation services by air, sea and road,
weather conditions and air traffic during
ensuring cost-effective and secure solutions
flight, communicating with passengers
to small shippers who have insufficient cargo
using the public address system and reacting
to require their own dedicated units and
Logistics and distribution manager
quickly and appropriately to environmental
liaising with third parties to move goods
Logistics and distribution managers
changes and emergencies.
(by road, rail, air or sea) in accordance with
organise the storage and distribution
The role also requires pilots to update
customer requirements.
of goods. Essentially they need to ensure
the aircraft logbook and write a report at
Additional likely responsibilities include
the right products are delivered to the
the end of the flight noting any incidents
arranging insurance and assisting the client
right location on time and at a good cost.
or problems with the aircraft.
in the event of a claim, offering tailored IT
They may be involved in transportation,
solutions and electronic data interchange
stock control, warehousing and monitoring
(EDI) connections arranging payment of
the flow of goods.
Freight forwarder
freight and other charges or collection of
A logistics and distribution manager
A freight forwarder is an agent who acts
payment on behalf of the client.
needs to have an understanding of the
on behalf of importers, exporters or other
There may also be a requirement to
whole supply chain so they can coordinate
companies or persons to organise the safe,
utilise e-commerce, internet technology and
it effectively and liaise with suppliers of raw
206 / 207
Typical work activities
Transport & logistics
that details the altitude for the flight, route
materials, manufacturers, retailers and
Merchant navy officer
The role may also encompass repairing
consumers. IT plays a big part in the role
The Merchant Navy is the collective name
and upgrading systems and equipment, e.g.
as IT systems and electronic communication
for the UK’s commercial shipping industry.
air compressors, pumps and sewage plants,
methods are used to keep track of stock
However, it is actually composed of
implementing regular equipment inspections
levels, delivery times, transport costs and
individual companies who are responsible
and maintenance programmes and keeping
performance evaluation. Logistics is at the
for their own recruitment and training.
up to date with developments in the marine
centre of electronic commerce (e-commerce)
Merchant Navy officers are employed
engineering field.
which is developing all the time.
on the many types of vessels that make
The activities of all officers include
Logistics and distribution managers
up the UK commercial shipping industry.
undertaking essential administration,
must also be aware of external influences
These include: ferries; cruise ships; cargo
including budgets, accounts and records
such as legislation, fuel costs and
container ships; oil, gas and chemical
of stock, cargo and passengers and
environmental pressures. They will always
tankers, and other bulk cargo carriers;
managing the work of ratings and providing
need to be considering how business
and a wide range of vessels designed for
training and support for officer trainees.
development can fit with sustainability.
specialised supply, support and rescue roles. Merchant Navy officers are primarily
Typical work activities
leaders and managers. However, as well
Passenger transport manager
Responsibilities vary according to the
as managing staff, senior officers are still
A passenger transport manager is responsible
specific job role and whether the employing
expected to perform practical tasks with
for managing, planning and coordinating
company is a manufacturer, retailer or
their colleagues.
passenger transport operations, including delivery and organisation of services.
specialist service provider (e.g. in third party logistics (3PL)).
Typical work activities
The transport industry covers both the
A range of business tasks is
Your rank and the size of the vessel you
private and public sectors and includes
undertaken to support the smooth
are working on will affect your duties. On a
road, rail, air and sea services.
and efficient operation of supply chain
smaller ship, activities will be more hands-on,
Transport managers manage people,
processes, and tasks usually include
whereas on a larger ship, the role tends to be
equipment and budgets, working closely
monitoring the quality, quantity, cost and
more managerial. A deck/navigation officer’s
with colleagues in finance, marketing,
efficiency of the movement and storage
typical work activities include navigating
planning, market research and strategic
of goods, as well as coordinating and
the vessel using a range of satellite and
development in order to ensure a quality
controlling the order cycle and associated
radar systems and equipment, checking
service is provided at the right price.
information systems.
weather and navigation reports and taking
Job titles vary and the word
The role also typically involves analysing
appropriate action and coordinating the safe
‘passenger’ will not necessarily appear
data to monitor performance and plan
loading, storage and unloading of cargo.
in job advertisements. Alternative titles
improvements and demand, allocating
Those working on ferries or cruise ships
include transport manager, operations/
and managing staff resources according to
will also manage passenger care and safety.
operating manager, depot manager and
changing needs and liaising and negotiating
Additional aspects of the role consist of
customer services manager, depending
with customers and suppliers.
supervising the operation and maintenance
on the focus of the role.
There may also be a requirement to
of deck machinery, e.g. winches and cranes,
develop business by gaining new contracts,
managing ship communication systems
Typical work activities
analysing logistical problems and producing
and monitoring and maintaining safety,
The work activities of transport managers
new solutions.
firefighting and life-saving equipment.
vary significantly depending on the industry
When managing warehouse or
Other typical duties include overseeing
or sector and the size of the organisation.
transport staff, the role may also include
the ship to ensure that the highest levels
Senior posts encompass strategic planning
implementing health and safety procedures,
of health and safety are maintained,
and project management work, while junior
managing staff training and motivating
maintaining legal and operational records,
posts are more involved in customer contact
other members of the team. Other typical
e.g. the ship’s log and keeping up to
and routine staff supervision.
duties are project management and
date with developments in maritime
In general, however, typical work
setting objectives.
legal, commercial and political matters.
activities include making sure that the
More senior roles in logistics may
An engineering officer’s typical
operation meets its performance and
involve planning projects, working on
work activities include directing others
safety targets, monitoring and reporting
new supply strategies and planning
in the operation and maintenance of the
performance to senior management and
vehicle routes, as well as using specialist
mechanical and electrical equipment on
writing clear reports and presenting options
knowledge, such as mechanical-handling
board and managing power, fuelling and
and recommendations to clients and
systems, to provide consultancy services.
distribution systems.
senior management.
can be implemented in certain areas.
witness at public inquiries and planning
on policy and strategic developments,
They will take into consideration issues such
appeals. There may also be a requirement
examining business decisions (pricing policy,
as climate change, the economy and the
to write bids for the funding of projects.
level of service provision, timetable changes)
environment. The work of transport planners
to assess their impact on passengers and
is often related to government policies and
ensuring that all operations are carried out
initiatives, such as trying to change the travel
in accordance with UK and European Union
behaviour of people by encouraging them
(EU) laws and regulations, particularly relating
to reduce their car use and take up walking,
to health and safety.
cycling or public transport.
The role may also involve managing
Work can be carried out on different
and supervising staff, organising shift rotas
levels from local to international and may
and coordinating staff training, as well as
include tasks from initial ideas through
negotiating and managing contracts and
to design, completion and reviews.
CHAPTER 2 | jobs directory
Additional likely duties consist of advising
developing new business opportunities. Passenger transport managers may also
Typical work activities
be responsible for minimising disruption and
There are a variety of tasks that can be
resolving any unscheduled delays, making
carried out by transport planners and they
decisions in difficult situations and meeting
often relate to the level of the job and the
passengers and customers, dealing with
size of the employers. Tasks could typically
complaints and areas of concern.
include designing and interpreting transport
There may be an additional requirement
and travel surveys, writing clear reports and
to analyse results of surveys on passenger/
presenting options and recommendations
customer satisfaction, instigate new projects
on transport systems to clients and using
to improve performance and to ensure that
statistical analysis to examine travel data
transport services are available to all through
or accident records.
social inclusion initiatives.
Additional activities may consist of
Further typical duties include
forming potential solutions to transport
marketing passenger services to encourage
problems, using mathematical and
greater passenger use of particular routes
computer simulation models to forecast
and methods of transport, liaising and
the effects of road improvements, policy
negotiating with different stakeholders
changes and/or public transport schemes
including planning and highways
and evaluating the benefits and costs of
authorities, residents, councillors/politicians,
different strategies.
developers and transport providers and
Further possible aspects of the role
identifying existing and possible future
entail participating in public consultation
transport problems, developing transport
initiatives, including designing leaflets
models and investigating the feasibility
or questionnaires and attending scheme
of alternative means of transport.
exhibitions, managing studies and projects,
The work may also entail liaising with
often within tight time and budget limits,
passenger watchdogs and other professional
and assessing infrastructure requirements
bodies and using IT systems for tasks such
of new developments to support planning
as timetabling and managing usage flows.
applications or to inform local authority development plans.
e.g. planning and highways authorities,
and projects relating to all kinds of transport
residents’ groups, councillors/politicians,
systems. This includes roads and the use
developers, transport providers, developing
of cars, lorries and buses, rail networks,
the initial design ideas for new or improved
pedestrian systems for walking or cycling,
transport infrastructure, such as junction
and air travel.
improvements, pedestrian priority schemes,
Transport planners look at ways to
bus interchange or bus priority facilities, car
improve these systems or how new systems
parking areas, etc. and acting as an expert
208 / 209
and negotiating with different parties,
Transport planners work on policies, plans
Transport & logistics
The role may also consist of liaising
Transport planner
JOBs index
A
Biomedical engineer
121
Corporate investment banker
087
Academic librarian
199
Biomedical scientist
192
Counsellor
136
Accommodation manager
141
Bookseller
187
Customer service manager
188
Accounting technician
086
Broadcast journalist
166
Actor
109
Building control surveyor
174
Actuary
086
Building services engineer
174
Acupuncturist
135
Adult nurse
135
Advertising account executive
161
C
Advertising account planner
161
Call centre manager
187
Diplomatic Services
Advertising art director
162
Careers adviser
182
operational officer
093
Advertising copywriter
162
Catering manager
141
Dispensing optician
188
Advice worker
103
Ceramics designer
109
Drilling engineer
115
Aeronautical engineer
092
Charity fundraiser
103
Agricultural consultant
128
Charity officer
104
Air cabin crew
206
Chartered accountant
086
Air traffic controller
206
Chartered legal executive
Airline pilot
206
(England and Wales)
156
Ecologist 129
Analytical chemist
192
Chartered management accountant
096
Economist 097
Animal technologist
192
Chemical engineer
121
Editorial assistant
166
Applications developer
148
Child psychotherapist
136
Education administrator
200
Arboriculturist
128
Chiropractor
135
Educational psychologist
200
Architect
173
Civil Service administrator
177
Electronics engineer
122
Civil Service fast streamer
097
Emergency planning/
Armed forces logistics/support/
D Dancer 109 Database administrator
148
Dentist 137
E Early years teacher
199
administrative officer
092
Clinical research associate
193
management officer
093
Armed forces operational officer
092
Commercial art gallery manager
187
Energy engineer
123
Arts administrator
103
Commercial horticulturist
128
Energy manager
115
Automotive engineer
121
Commissioning editor
166
Engineering geologist
115
Community arts worker
104
English as a foreign language teacher
201
Community development worker
104
Environmental consultant
098
Community education officer
105
Environmental education officer
201
B Barrister
155
Company secretary
157
Environmental manager
129
Barrister’s clerk
156
Contracting civil engineer
122
Event organiser
141
CHAPTER 2 | jobs directory
F
Hotel manager
099
Manufacturing systems engineer
124
Farm manager
130
Human resources officer
183
Marine scientist
131
Fashion designer
110
Hydrogeologist 117
Marketing executive
106
Fast food restaurant manager
098
Market researcher
162
Film/video editor
167
125
Financial adviser
087
I
Mechanical engineer Media buyer
163
Financial manager
098
Illustrator
111
Media planner
163
Financial trader
088
Immigration officer
178
Medical physicist
193
Fine artist
110
Information officer
105
Medical sales representative
189
Firefighter
094
Information systems manager
150
Merchant navy officer
208
Fitness centre manager
143
Insurance broker
088
Meteorologist 194
Food technologist
123
Insurance claims inspector
089
Midwife 138
Forest/woodland manager
130
Intelligence analyst/officer
178
Mudlogger 117
Freight forwarder
207
International aid/
Multimedia specialist
151
Further education lecturer
202
development worker
106
Museum/gallery curator
111
Investment analyst
089
Musician 112
IT consultant
099
IT sales professional
150
IT technical support officer
151
G Games developer
149
General practice doctor
137
Geographical information
N Nature conservation officer
131
Network engineer
152
Newspaper journalist
167
149
L
Geophysicist/field seismologist
116
Land-based engineer
124
Geoscientist 116
Learning mentor
202
Government social
Licensed conveyancer
157
O
179
Occupational psychologist
183
Office manager
100
Outdoor pursuits manager
143
research officer
177
Local government officer
Graphic designer
111
Logistics and distribution manager
H
207
098
M
Higher education lecturer
202
Management consultant
100
Paramedic
094
Manufacturing engineer
124
Passenger transport manager
208
Homeopath 138
P
210 / 211
Health service manager
Jobs index
systems officer
Patent attorney
158
Restaurant manager
142
Technical author
153
Pensions consultant
089
Retail banker
090
Technical brewer
126
Petroleum engineer
117
Retail buyer
189
Television/film/video producer
170
Photographer
112
Retail manager
101
Television floor manager
171
Physiotherapist
138
Retail merchandiser
190
Textile designer
113
Police officer
094
Runner, broadcasting/film/video
170
Theme park manager
145
Politician’s assistant
179
Tourism officer
146
Press subeditor
168
145
Primary school teacher
203
S
Tour manager Town planner
175
Print production planner
168
Sales executive
Private music teacher
203
Sales promotion account executive 164
Trademark attorney
159
Probation officer
180
Secondary school teacher
204
Trading standards officer
180
Secretary/administrator
101
Training and development officer
184
Social worker
139
Transport planner
209
Soil scientist
132
Travel agency manager
146
Product/process development scientist
194
Programme researcher,
184
broadcasting/film/video
169
Solicitor 158
Public affairs consultant
100
Solicitor (Scotland)
Public house manager
142
Sound technician,
Public relations account executive
164
broadcasting/film/video
Public relations officer
106
Special educational
Q Quality manager
125
R
159 170
needs teacher
204
Sports coach
144
Sports development officer
144
Toxicologist 196
V Veterinary surgeon
133
Volunteer coordinator
107
W
Statistician 095
Warehouse manager
190
Structural engineer
126
Waste management officer
118
Systems analyst
152
Water quality scientist
118
Systems developer
196
Wellsite geologist
119
Radio producer
169
Recruitment consultant
100
Recycling officer
132
T
Regulatory affairs officer
195
Tax adviser
090
Y
Research scientist (life sciences)
095
Teaching laboratory technician
196
Youth worker
Writer 171
107