Skills Development Scotland
Careers Adviser - Elgin
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Careers Adviser - Elgin
Careers Adviser – Elgin (Fixed Term, 12 Months)
If you require this advert in another format, please contact recruitment@sds.co.uk or call 0300 013 5119.
Applications are welcomed from current students qualifying summer 2026.
About the Role
Position: Careers Adviser (Fixed term for 12 months)
In this role, you’ll deliver Careers Information, Advice and Guidance (CIAG) services across Scotland, supporting individuals of all ages to develop the skills, confidence, and insight they need for informed career decisions. Working across schools, learning providers, employers, and partners, your work drives positive and sustainable outcomes in learning and employment.
Working With Us – About SDS
Skills Development Scotland (SDS) is Scotland’s national skills agency, dedicated to driving productivity and inclusive economic growth through skilled workforce development and business support.
Our core mission:
- Improve individuals’ employment prospects
- Enhance business competitiveness
- Strengthen Scotland’s labour market
SDS is guided by five key organisational values:
- Customer first: Place people at the heart of every decision.
- Collaborative strength: Leverage collective expertise for optimal outcomes.
- Respect and personal responsibility: Foster a culture of accountability.
- Excellence through continuous improvement: Strive for higher professional standards.
- Diversity, equality, and inclusion: Uphold fairness and support underrepresented groups.
Key Responsibilities
As a Careers Adviser, you will:
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- Provide impartial, high-quality careers advice using a coaching approach, accommodating:
- One-to-one sessions
- Group guidance
- Assist customers (including):
- School-aged young people
- Post-school individuals
- Adults
- Develop individuals’ career management skills, including:
- Option exploration
- Goal setting
- Career ownership strategies
- Assess customer needs using approved tools
- Create and implement personalised career development plans
- Collaborate with partners to facilitate transition pathways into:
- Learning
- Training
- Employment
- Promote SDS services, such as My World of Work
- Maintain accurate records for continuous improvement and professional standards
What We’re Looking For
Key Requirements
- You must possess one of the following professional qualifications, as recognised by the Career Development Institute (CDI):
- QCD (Qualification in Career Development)
- Predecessor equivalent, such as a Postgraduate Diploma in Career Guidance and Development
- Demonstrated coaching and interpersonal skills, with experience in:
- Building trusting, respectful relationships
- An understanding of career management techniques
- Practical experience with labour market information
- Ability to work flexibly within changing environments
- Commitment to:
- National Occupational Standards
- Code of Ethics
- Ongoing Continuous Professional Development (CPD)
Why Join SDS?
A progressive workplace with: ✔ Award-winning equal opportunities and fair work policies ✔ Culture-driven by people, focusing on customer needs and collaborative support ✔ Flexible work arrangements with strong employee development ✔ Focus on wellbeing and work-life balance
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Work Location
- Primary base: Elgin office, with flexible travel given the role’s needs
- Location: Moray, known for its:
- Stunning landscapes
- Thriving cultural scene
- Affordable housing
- High-quality public schools
How to Apply
📅 Closing Date: Wednesday 15th July 2026 🗓 Interviews: Scheduled as soon as possible afterward
If this Careers Adviser role excites you or requires further discussion, connect with: 📧 Amy Gordon: amy.gordon@sds.co.uk
AI Policy
While AI tools can assist with application drafting, ensure your submission:
- Represents you authentically
- Is truthful and accurate
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
SDS is committed to fair recruitment practices. If you meet the role requirements, we encourage your application, regardless of background.
Additional notes:
- Avoid disclosing personal characteristics not relevant to the role.
- For fairness, interview questions will be shared in advance (trial period: April–September 2026).
Next Steps
Visit Work With Us for more details on SDS recruitment and application procedures.
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