Charity registered in Scotland SC007983
The RBGE is an international centre of excellence in plant science and horticulture. It undertakes a wide educational programme for every stage in life, is one of Scotland’s leading tourist destinations, and is a centre for community engagement and recreation – connecting plants to people.
First and foremost, the Garden is a scientific institution focussed on understanding and conserving the world’s plant diversity. Its work on accelerating species discovery facilitates a wide range of conservation projects around the world, and its expertise in DNA sequencing provides important insights into plant evolution and ecology. This research is underpinned by one of the richest collections of wild plant species in the world, an herbarium containing three million preserved plant specimens and a highly acclaimed specialist library and archive.
The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh (RBGE) is a world-renowned institution dedicated to plant science, horticulture, and biodiversity conservation. We are committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment where innovation thrives, and diverse perspectives are valued.
The Development and Communications Division at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh plays a vital role in raising the funds and support that allow our Gardens, science and conservation work to thrive. We are now seeking a highly organised and detail-focused individual to join our small, efficient team in a key administrative role.
This is a database and supporter care position, ideally suited to someone who enjoys working with data, systems and processes, and takes pride in accuracy, consistency and excellent record-keeping.
You will be responsible for the day-to-day administration of our Membership and Individual Giving programmes, including:
• Accurate recording of membership subscriptions and donations on our CRM database (Raiser’s Edge)
• Processing our membership card renewal, new member welcome, and lapsed programme
• Supporting the wider team with office administration and occasional event support
• Ensuring timely and accurate supporter communications and acknowledgements via phone, email and post
• Maintaining high standards of data quality to support the wider team with reporting, retention and stewardship
Alongside this, your friendly, professional customer service covering our email inbox and telephone line will help to maintain RBGE’s strong membership retention rates and positive supporter experience.
We welcome applications from candidates interested in flexible working arrangements, including part-time hours or job-sharing.
RBGE is unable to sponsor applicants without the right to work in the United Kingdom for this role. It is the applicant’s responsibility to ensure eligibility to work in the United Kingdom for the duration of the appointment.
The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is one of the world’s leading botanic gardens and a global centre for biodiversity science, horticulture and education. Our vision is of a positive future for plants, people and the planet. With the replanting of our stunning Victorian Palm House underway, with a view to fully reopening in Autumn 2026, we are looking for a friendly, organised and proactive Engagement Assistant to help us deliver a vibrant programme of events, workshops and tours.
In this varied role, you’ll work closely with our Engagement team, volunteers, community partners and internal colleagues to support the smooth running of our cultural and community activities. Every day will be different: from helping plan event schedules and managing customer enquiries, to assisting with set‑ups, welcoming audiences, gathering feedback and even leading Palm House tours for a range of visitors. You’ll also play an important part behind the scenes — raising purchase orders, updating budgets, coordinating resources and ensuring our events meet high standards of accessibility, safety and inclusion.
We’re looking for someone who is a strong communicator with excellent organisational and administrative skills, who is confident working with community groups and supporting volunteers. You’ll be comfortable managing competing tasks and proficient in Microsoft Word and Excel, as well as being knowledgeable and enthusiastic about horticulture, arts, culture or heritage and committed to delivering safe, welcoming and inclusive experiences for all.