Heritage Advisor – Union Canal Unlocked
Location: Based in Re-Union Canal Boats office in Edinburgh
Hours/Rate: 36 days over 6 months @ £150 per day (increased hours may become available due to
further funding being awarded)
Starting date: asap
Closing date: 22nd January 2016
Please apply by cv and covering letter detailing your specific skills for this post to ucuha@reunion.org.uk
The Project:
Union Canal Unlocked is a partnership project between Re-Union Canal Boats, Scottish Waterways
Trust, Scottish Canals and Edinburgh Printmakers. Our project will create an innovative package of
interpretation that will celebrate the natural and cultural heritage of the Union Canal, from the heart
of Edinburgh to Falkirk. We will engage local communities and provide learning, training and
volunteering opportunities for all sectors of the community. We will create an oral history archive;
produce a smartphone app and leaflet as heritage trail guides along the towpath; Install on site
heritage signage; create artistic interventions; produce a community inspired animated film: and
produce a travelling community exhibition. Our aim is to make the canal heritage more accessible to
people who live and work around the canal and visit from further afield.
Purpose of Job
The Local Heritage Advisor will lead on the historical research required for the project. Sourcing
materials from a range of archives as well as from the local community that can be used in our
interpretation materials. The advisor will be responsible for obtaining all relevant copyright and
permissions to reproduce materials. The advisor will also participate in the programme of events and
workshops and lead in the creation of the oral history archive.
Key Responsibilities
 Undertake desk based research on the history of the Union Canal and gather materials for
inclusion in the new leaflet, signage and smartphone app
 Obtain all relevant copyright and permissions to reproduce materials
 Draft the text and images for the new leaflet and smartphone app
 Assist in the oral history programme and create the oral history archive
 Assist the project officer at community engagement events
Knowledge, Experience and Skills
Assessment Area
Required Qualifications
Essential Criteria
Degree or equivalent
Relevant Experience
Demonstrable success in
research and interpretation
Specific skill, abilities and
qualities
Ability to engage and motivate
people to support and
participate in our work
Good understanding of natural
and cultural heritage
Excellent written,
presentational and verbal
communication skills
Excellent planning, time
management, prioritisation
and organisational skills
Ability to work on own
initiative
Any additional job related
requirements
IT literate in Microsoft Office
suite
Full UK Driving Licence
PVG checked
Desirable Criteria
Experience of working with
people from all backgrounds
Team player, open, and
participative
Knowledge of and enthusiasm
for Scotland’s canals
Skilled social media
communicator