Vaults Assistant

We are looking for a Vaults Assistant on a fixed term contract until January 2029 to retrieve, transport, and accurately re-file film, video, and digital assets within the holdings of the BFI National Archive, always ensuring the highest standards of collections care. The Vaults Assistant will handle all collection materials - particularly nitrate film - with exceptional care, strictly adhering to the BFI's nitrate handling procedures and safety regulations. While maintaining the security, integrity, and long-term preservation of all holdings throughout the retrieval, transportation, and storage processes. This role will support the collections review, insight and digitisation objectives and deliverables of the National Lottery-funded project 'Stories in Motion' supported by the BFI Screen Heritage National Lottery Fund. 'Stories in Motion' is a three-year programme designed to open the BFI National Archive to wider and diverse audiences, discover new collections, secure the UK's at-risk videotape screen heritage, and build a resilient, specialist skilled and diverse workforce for the future. The project aims to:

• Increase equitable public engagement with the UK's screen heritage
• Embed inclusive, community-led and collaborative practice across the BFI National Archive,
• Strengthen understanding, improving transparency and discoverability of the national collection
• Build sector resilience through partnerships and long-term workforce development
What you'll do
• Accurately retrieve archive assets from storage using the appropriate cataloguing and tracking systems provided.
• Ensure the safe, secure and timely delivery of archive holdings to internal and external clients.
• Re-file all assets with complete accuracy, always maintaining precise location control.
• Accurately barcode, label and track archive materials in accordance with established procedures.
• Drive BFI vans as required to transport archive holdings safely and efficiently.
  
  Previous relevant experience working in an archive and/or with collections materials.
• Demonstrable experience driving vans and regularly loading/unloading heavy materials.
• Ability to lift and manoeuvre heavy loads and equipment safely.
• Experience working at height, including climbing ladders safely.
• Valid UK manualdriving licence with a safe driving record.
  
  25 days annual leave (rising to 30 with service) + bank holidays + the option to buy up to 5 extra days of annual leave
• Additional paid time off between Christmas and New Year
• BFI pension scheme with 5% employer contribution
• BFI Childcare Scheme, where we contribute to childcare costs
• Enhanced pay for Maternity & Paternity leave
• Complimentary tickets to BFI Southbank & IMAX screenings and events
• Free BFI Player subscription + discount on BFI merchandise, and film tickets