tourism information officer job description

How to become a Tourist Information Officer

Tourist information officers provide travel, hospitality and accommodation information to tourists, promote tourism, and assess tourist opportunities for local communities.

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Personal requirements for a Tourist Information Officer

• Enjoy working with people
• Good interpersonal, communication and customer service skills
• Good organisational skills
• Comfortable working with computers
• Good geographical knowledge

Education & Training for a Tourist Information Officer

You can work as a tourist information officer without formal qualifications. You will probably get some informal training on the job. You can also become a tourist information officer through a traineeship. Entry requirements may vary, but employers generally require Year 10.

Additional information

A highly desirable skill amongst tourist information officers is the ability to speak a second language. Most people are expected to have a strong retail background or qualifications in hospitality and tourism.Tourist information officers have to be familiar with all the tour operators and the various attractions and services in their region. As part of ongoing training, they take part in industry familiarisations, going to hotels or motels to personally rate the accommodation.

Duties & Tasks of a Tourist Information Officer

Tourist information officers:

• Answer questions from tourists, visitors, local residents and other tourism industry colleagues, in person, over the phone, via email or online
• Make suggestions on tours, travel routes, accommodation and local attractions
• Provide literature and information on local, interstate and international tours and places of interest
• Maintain literature and brochure stocks
• Sell souvenirs and other merchandise
• Discuss transport, accommodation and tour availability and cost
• Arrange bookings and documentation for travel and accommodation, and collect payment
• Assist travel agents and tour operators in preparing itineraries for tourists
• Undertake general clerical and office duties
• Coordinate volunteer or part-time staff
• Put together statistics concerning the number and nature of enquiries
• Be responsible for overall presentation of the information centre.
• Provides literature and information on local and inter-island tours and places of interest.
• May work in a call centre.
• Discusses transport availability and cost.
• Answers inquiries from tourists and offers suggestions about tours, travel routes, accommodation and local customs.

Employment Opportunities for a Tourist Information Officer

Tourist information officers are employed in a wide range of agencies in the tourism and hospitality industry, and in private and government organisations involved in tourist promotion, planning and development. Tourism officers can be involved in providing information on and promoting travel to the local area, the state or international destinations.Despite tourism being important in the Australian economy, some small tourist information centres are staffed by volunteers and do not hire professional staff. Some larger centres are broadening their scope and employing staff with higher levels of training.

Specializations

Tourism manager.

A tourism manager manages a tourism information centre, which includes business management, staff supervision and development, office systems management and the provision of services. Tourism managers may also act as the executive officer for the local tourism committee and make sure services are in place to respond to day-to-day tourism enquiries. They check and regularly report to management on the status of the tourism marketing budget and on tourism awareness or new initiatives on behalf of the employers to industry, media, community or interest groups. They may also contribute to the planning, development and implementation of tourism marketing strategies and encourage community involvement and awareness.

Tourist Information Officer

Average age

Future Growth

Gender Share

Average full-time

Skill level rating

Lower skill.

Unemployment

Average unemployment.

Full-Time Share

50% full-time.

Employment Size

1,400 workers.

Employment by state

Age brackets

Education level

Related courses.

Associate Degree in Tourism

William angliss institute vic.

Bachelor of Arts (Global Studies)

University of canberra.

Bachelor of Business / Bachelor of Innovation and Entrepreneurship

University of newcastle, bachelor of development studies / bachelor of social science, bachelor of social science, bachelor of tourism, hospitality and events.

Certificate I in Tourism (Australian Indigenous Culture) - SIT10116

Charles darwin university, certificate ii in tourism - sit20116, diploma of hospitality management - sit50416, diploma of travel and tourism management - sit50116, request information update, media presenter, museum attendant, travel consultant.

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Tourism officer

gradireland editorial team

Last updated: 24 Feb 2023, 16:02

Promotes tourism and devises tourist development initiatives/campaigns with the aim of generating and increasing revenue.

Job description

A tourism officer works to develop and enhance the visitor facilities of a region and to stimulate tourism growth in order to produce economic benefits for a particular region or site. They often work for local authorities but may also work within private companies or other public sector agencies.

Work activities

• Promoting existing tourist attractions through advertising campaigns, developing promotional literature including artwork, writing press releases and copy for tourism guides/newsletters
• Carrying out research of existing tourist attractions to gain customer feedback in order to make improvements
• Researching local history and local people's views in order to develop potential new tourist attractions
• Working with the media and other local partner organisations to raise the profile of the local area, generate positive publicity and create a brand identity for the area
• Organising exhibition stands at conferences and holiday shows, both nationally and overseas, to promote the area
• Organising special and seasonal events and festivals
• Providing support, guidance and sometimes administering funding for local tourism-related business and advising new tourism businesses
• Encouraging the development of new jobs within the tourism sector
• Bringing in tourism development funding to the area
• Assessing the impact that any planned developments may have upon the local environment weighed against the potential benefits
• Consulting with local tourism businesses such as tour operators, restaurants and guest-houses, to assess the effectiveness of current tourism development policies and to develop an overall tourism development strategy.

Work conditions

Travel: usually office based, although travel to tourist centres and attractions may be required. Working hours: normally office hours though occasional unsocial evenings/weekends may be required. Location: throughout the country Opportunities for self-employment: unlikely

Typical employers

Government bodies including:

• Fáilte Ireland
• Tourism Ireland
• Department of Arts, Sports & Tourism
• Shannon Development
• Regional Tourism Development Boards
• Dublin Tourism
• County councils etc.

Career development

Progression is possible by moving into managerial positions both within the tourism development section and into other departments such as economic development and regeneration.

Salaries will vary depending on employer, location and line management responsibilities.

Northern Ireland: Starting salaries of £16,000–£18,000 can be expected, rising to £35,000+ with experience.

Entry requirements

Entry is possible without a third level qualification which means jobs are open to graduates from all disciplines, but relevant qualifications are becoming increasingly more in demand by employers. In addition, most employers ask for some previous experience within the travel and tourism industry.

Other relevant degree subjects

• Business/management studies especially those with tourism management
• Hospitality management
• Hotel management
• Leisure and tourism
• Public relations
• Travel and tourism management

Postgraduate study

A pre-entry postgraduate qualification is not necessary.

Specific entry requirements

Previous relevant work experience is often a requirement.

Tips for application

Find part-time or seasonal work within the tourism industry at weekends and during university holidays. Knowledge of foreign languages is also useful. Marketing and web experience is also useful.

Skills and qualities

• Excellent interpersonal, written and oral communication skills
• Ability to liaise with community groups, stakeholders and the tourism industry
• High level of skills in the production of information and communication material
• Excellent customer service skills and an understanding of visitor needs and of the tourism industry
• Ability to work independently, within large teams or to lead a team, both cohesively and efficiently
• Strong management, administrative, organisational and project management ability
• Creativity and innovative strategic thinking along with good PR and marketing skills.

gradireland editorial advice

This describes editorially independent and impartial content, which has been written and edited by the gradireland content team. Any external contributors featuring in the article are in line with our non-advertorial policy, by which we mean that we do not promote one organisation over another.

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Tourist Information Officer

If you have an interest in learning languages and have good communication skills then a career as a tourist information officer could be for you., career overview.

Tourist Information Officers provide advice to tourists about the attractions and accommodation available in their local area.  They work in visitor information centres in popular tourist destinations throughout South Africa, where they help tourists from all over South Africa and the world.

Required School Subjects

You will need to have taken the following subjects at high school:

• English (Home Language or First Additional Language)
• Pure Mathematics

Recommended subjects:

• Travel and Tourism

Institution and APS

The following institutions are highly recommended for tertiary studies:

• University of Johannesburg (UJ) – APS of 26+
• University of Pretoria (UP) – APS of 30
• Boston City Campus and Business College – No specific APS required

Required Qualification/s

No formal qualifications are required as you can get training on the job. You will generally need to be very familiar with the local area and its attractions.  Your chances of getting into this role will be improved by getting a qualification in tourism or a related area.  You will be able to aquire a qualification from one of the abovementioned institutions:

University of Johannesburg

• Bachelor’s Degree in Tourism Development and Management
• Diploma in Tourism Management

University of Pretoria

• BSocSci Heritage and Cultural Tourism

Boston City Campus and Business College

• Tourism certificate

Required Skills

You will need to show the following skills as a Tourist Information Officer:

• The ability to speak multiple languages may improve your employment prospects.
• They help clients by providing services like: booking accommodation, arranging tours and recommending restaurants and popular entertainment activities.
• Most visitor centres also distribute brochures and sell souvenirs, so tourist information officers will also have to maintain stock levels and prepare displays.
• Some Tourist Information Officers may also be involved in running local, national or international campaigns to promote tourism in their area.

Where you can work

Tourist Information Officers work in popular tourist destinations all over South Africa. They usually work in dedicated visitor information centres, which are run by local governments or city councils.

Working Hours

Typically, standard business hours during the week, and may also work on weekends. Tourism is a seasonal industry, so Tourist Information Officers tend to be busier during the warmer months, though this can vary depending on which area they work in.

Expected Salary

• The average pay for someone who works in tourism in South Africa is R149 per hour.
• On a monthly average, a Tourist Information Officer can earn around R23 840 per month.

Your salary can vary depending on which region in South Africa you are working in. For example, Cape Town jobs tend to pay higher salaries compared to Johannesburg, since it attracts more tourists.

What to expect

There are many things that you’ll like about this career, some of them include:

• The ability to travel and meet new and interesting people.
• Understanding that you’re helping grow your country’s economy through tourism
• The challenge in working with people from different backgrounds, across many locations
• The variety of the work itself

Sometimes it can get frustrating if you have a client that is over-demanding to a point where it is unpleasant – and it can be difficult to manage that. But, there’s generally lots of time to learn during in-season periods when there are many tourists.

There can be a lot of pressure to find work when it is off-season and there aren’t many tourists.

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Tourism Job Description

Tourism duties & responsibilities.

To write an effective tourism job description, begin by listing detailed duties, responsibilities and expectations. We have included tourism job description templates that you can modify and use.

Sample responsibilities for this position include:

Tourism Qualifications

Qualifications for a job description may include education, certification, and experience.

Licensing or Certifications for Tourism

List any licenses or certifications required by the position: TEFL, CTE, PMU, DGTT, DNA

Education for Tourism

Typically a job would require a certain level of education.

Employers hiring for the tourism job most commonly would prefer for their future employee to have a relevant degree such as Bachelor's and Master's Degree in Tourism, Hospitality, Business, Graduate, Management, Teaching, Marketing, Education, Hospitality Management, Faculty

Skills for Tourism

Desired skills for tourism include:

Desired experience for tourism includes:

Tourism Examples

• Microsoft Word (.docx) .DOCX
• PDF Document (.pdf) .PDF
• Image File (.png) .PNG
• Reporting, documentation and follow-up of projects
• Literature review of key tourism documents and statistics relevant to the Seychelles, including the Tourism Department for latest information (2 days)
• Interviews with public sector institutions and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) involved in tourism to understand how SNPA could improve tourism in their PAs (2 days)
• Interviews with private sector businesses that currently utilise SNPA PAs
• On-site assessments to evaluate the quality and deficiencies of the current tourism products and services at key sites (5 days)
• Design a tourist satisfaction survey to determine their opinions of existing SNPA sites and experiences determine possible demand for future products and services that are in line with the principles of sustainable development (1 day)
• Analyse data from the tourism satisfaction survey conducted by the separate local institution (2 days)
• Undertake a capacity assessment of SNPA's tourism expertise, identifying capacity gaps and training needs (1 day, included within on-site assessments)
• Evaluate SNPA’s entrance fee collection and reporting system, identifying opportunities to improve its efficiency (1 day, included with on-site assessments)
• Combine the above results into a draft report (3 days)
• You are used to work independently and in a solution-oriented manner
• Because of your excellent communication skills it is easy for you to present also complex and technical topics in a comprehensible way
• You feel at home in a dynamic environment and you are able to think outside the box
• We expect good German, English and MS Office skills
• Knowledge of tour operatorandbooking systems are a plus
• 2-3+ years of relevant working experience in Travel & Tourism, specifically airline and rail industries
• Incorporate comments received into a final report
• Organize and coordinate familiarization tours including developing invitation lists, organize receptions, invitations, ticket distribution, , at each show on an as-need basis
• You will assist the development team on resorts development in China
• You will communicate with different stakeholders including government officials, investors, and developers to collect project information and evaluate projects at early stage
• You will work both on general market study of resorts/hospitality sector and also for specific projects of the company
• You will prepare diversified presentations for internal reporting and external communication
• Minimum Bachelor degree from top universities in China (985, 211 universities) or abroad
• Last year students or fresh graduates
• Good personalities, responsible, autonomous, outstanding communication skills
• Knowledge of economic, finance will be a plus
• You are interested in looking behind the scenes of German and international travel distribution and to view the distribution of tour operator products from the perspective of an IT service provider and to actively help design it
• You bring organizational skills and coordination talent and you are able to understand new things quickly, which allows you to develop your skills on-the-job
• Effective written & verbal communication, with excellent mastery of English
• Background as Tourism Association Specialist is desired or as Destination Marketing Organisation (DMO) Specialist which would be preferred as well
• A master’s degree in business administration or marketing or private sector development or business studies
• 5 year’s experience or more in working in tourism destination marketing or organisational governance
• Coordinate all clerical duties associated with staff searches
• Having received the highest cumulative (technical, filled questionnaire and financial) score out of below defined technical and financial criteria
• Play a leading and substantive role in developing and implementing program activities
• Be the lead in liaising with USAID staff, government counterparts, institutions, other donors, and stakeholders
• Manage and direct the work of all individuals and organizations engaged under the Activity
• Develop the Performance Management Plan and oversee progress toward the agreed goal and objectives
• Make verbal or written presentations as requested by USAID to varied audiences, including at regional and global conferences
• Foster a productive and safe work environment for all
• Study, analyze, and identify existing sustainable policies and practices in rural tourism which currently contribute or could potentially contribute to the enhanced resilience of small-holders farmer communities in the countries participating in the SSTC-ADFS partnership initiative
• Compose thoughtful and accurate messages or customize prepared responses to customers’ emails
• This position requires an earned doctorate in hospitality or a business-related field
• Sales and marketing experience in Sports/Entertainment industry
• At least 10 years experience in sustainable tourism
• Experience working on tourism in protected areas, specifically supporting income generation of protected area agencies
• Previous experience working with the tourism industry in Seychelles would be desirable
• A proven ability to conduct research and analysis
• Ability to achieve publications in refereed journals
• Student advisement, mentoring and coaching
• Recruitment and marketing at weekend open house and admitted students day
• Networking with business and academic professionals
• Develop and implement niche market programs as applicable (i.e., welcome center, city-wide special events)
• Develop and implement programs to hotel guests
• Receives information in various forms and determines the appropriate method of processing
• Responsible for the coordination/completion and the quality of the clerical work for the department/office which includes answering telephones, providing information, or routing calls to appropriate person
• Disseminates information that may require explanation and interpretation of established university and departmental policies and procedures, and directs individuals to sources of additional information
• Monitors and reviews departmental, budget reports and reconciles the reports with the department/offices records
• Responsible for achieving own sales goals
• Maintaining a professional physical appearance of common areas of the Center including marketing materials, signage, displays, and ensuring that all displayed information is current and relevant
• Assists Director/Asst
• Strong database of hotel and tourism contacts
• Demonstrated ability to work in a team environment, to effectively work closely with legal experts and other stakeholders to motivate its members and other project counterparts to effectively work towards achieving the expected outcomes
• Based on the rural tourism inventory results, the Incumbent should define the key rural tourism products for development
• Create and maintain database systems
• Responsible for ordering office supplies
• Supervise student employees and may act as a lead worker to other PSS
• Process student employee timecards and maintain appropriate records monitoring available dollars
• Manage/maintain supervisor’s schedule
• Conducts special projects and assignments as directed
• Coordinates special events and functions
• Coordinate and maintain departmental resources
• Like to share your passion in Tourism
• Lead and manage the Office of Recreation and Park Resources (ORPR)
• Advanced university degree in business related field, MBA, Marketing and Tourism
• Graduate degree in natural science, environment management, biodiversity, ecosystems science, agriculture or related field
• At least 7 years of relevant work experience in protected areas management, biodiversity assessments, responsible tourism or environmental research/consultancy
• Demonstrated adequate technical experience and know-how to undertake the necessary baseline surveys and assessment work
• Adequate knowledge and/or experience of Lebanese responsible tourism sector and biodiversity/protected areas knowledge in related national legal systems
• Experience with GEF project design, implementation or evaluation is an asset

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Tourism Information Officer

• Admission Requirements
• Registration & Accreditation

The UCO Tourism Information Officer programme will teach you about travel documentation, trip planning, basic geography, customer care and basic computer skills that will be required in this position in order to be effective in the workplace South Africa has one of the fastest growing tourism industries in the world, which is constantly seeking qualified personnel. An interest in the country and a desire to work with people are the basic character requirements for this vibrant and fascinating career.  Whether your position in tourism is static or involves travelling, you are sure to meet the most interesting people. A Tourist Information Officer (also known as Visitor Information Services Officer) helps holiday makers make the correct accommodation and tour choices.

A Tourism Officer develops and promotes tourism in order to attract visitors and produce significant economic benefits for a particular region or site.  Tourism Information Officer often works for local authorities, but may also work within private companies or other public sector agencies. The tourism industry covers a broad scope and so the role is varied and may include many different types of work. Key areas include marketing and the development of services and facilities. The UCO Tourism Information Officer Programme will teach you all about travel documentation, trip planning, basic geography, customer care and basic computer skills that will be required in this position in order to be effective in the workplace.

Who should attend this course?

This Skills Development Programme is intended for:

• want to pursue a career in the Tourism industry.
• enjoy working with people.
• have good interpersonal, communication and customer service skills.
• have good organisational skills.
• comfortable working with computers.
• geographical knowledge.

Future Possible Careers

• Event Co-ordinator, Public Relations Officer.
• Tourism Consultant, Customer Services.
• Hotel & Motel Front Office Attendant.
• Museum Attendant, Tour Guide, Airport and Bus Services Consultant.

Developmental Learning Pathway

After successfully completing this Skills Development Programme, the learner might continue with any of the following programmes:

• Small Business Entrepreneur Skills Development Programme.
• Public Relations Officer / Executive Secretarial/Personal Assistant-Tourism.

›  The duration of this course depends on the Learner’s abilities and class attendance.

› An average duration of 20 months is suggested.

›  No formal requirements, but a Grade 12 certificate with Geography as a subject is advisable.

› UCO is provisionally accredited by Umalusi, Council for Quality Assurance in General and Further Education and Training.

› All unit standard based courses are quality assured by one of the following Seta’s: MICT SETA , ETDP SETA or SERVICES SETA .

› Unit standard based courses will be followed by a SAQA Aligned Unit Standard ID number.

″Learners must be aware that Universal College also offers a few Provider Programs that are not unit standard aligned. The courses are quality assured by the provider.”

Provider Programmes Typing Instructor Deluxe Keyboard

Introduction to Windows Server 2003

Introduction to Travel and Tourism SA

Unit Standards

• Concepts of Information & Communication Techechnology
• MS Word Basic
• MS Excel Basic
• MS PowerPoint
• MS PowerPoint Intermediate
• Plan and Conduct Meetings
• Written Communication

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Tourist information manager: job description

targetjobs editorial team

Last updated: 25 Jan 2023, 13:39

Tourist information managers and officers manage services that promote and supply information to the general public about local and regional visitor attractions, accommodation, transport, amenities and events.

The UK tourism industry is a multi-billion pound industry employing millions of members of staff.

What does a tourist information centre manager do? Typical employers | Qualifications and training | Key skills

Due to Covid-19, you may find it difficult to gain work or experience in the tourism industry. As we explain here , however, recruiters will not view time out of work due to the pandemic as a 'gap' in your CV. For guidance on searching for work during this difficult time, take a look at our advice for job hunting during a pandemic .

The work of a tourist information manager may include supervising staff, preparing publicity materials and displays, answering queries from the public, administering accommodation services, selling souvenirs and taking bookings.

Other tasks include:

• marketing services
• centre management and administration
• maintaining statistical and financial records
• investigating and publicising visitor attractions and ensuring information held is current.

Some evening, weekend and public holiday work may be required during peak tourist seasons. Promotional opportunities are available for employees who are willing to change job location or to move into related areas of employment.

Typical employers

• Local authorities
• Commercial landowners
• Tourist information departments
• Commercial tourist attractions
• National parks
• Wildlife trusts
• The Forestry Commission
• The National Trust
• English Heritage.

Vacancies are advertised online, by careers services and in relevant publications such as Leisure Management and Marketing Week , as well as their online equivalents.

Qualifications and training required

There are routes into tourist information for both university graduates and school leavers.

A language, travel, tourism, business studies, marketing or geography degree may be helpful; however, commercial experience and the right soft skills are often more important than relevant qualifications.

Relevant work experience is essential and can be gained via seasonal employment, or by working as a volunteer or paid assistant in a tourist information centre. Language skills may also be useful.

Key skills for tourist information centre managers

• Good local knowledge
• Excellent interpersonal skills
• Organisational skills
• Communication skills
• Resourcefulness
• Commercial awareness
• Adaptability.

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This describes editorially independent and impartial content, which has been written and edited by the targetjobs content team. Any external contributors featuring in the article are in line with our non-advertorial policy, by which we mean that we do not promote one organisation over another.

People reading this also searched for roles in these areas:

• Graduate Jobs
• Graduate Schemes
• Internships

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Job description tourism information officer in canada, description.

• Requirements
• Competencies

Find out what work is like for a tourism information officer in Canada. This work description is applicable to all Professional occupations in advertising, marketing and public relations (NOC 64409).

Other customer and information services representatives

Other customer and information services representatives answer enquiries, provide information regarding an establishment's goods, services and policies and provide customer services such as receiving payments and processing requests for services. They are employed by retail establishments, contact centres, insurance, telecommunications and utility companies and other establishments throughout the private and public sectors.

Work week duration

Here are some of the main activities and tasks that Other customer and information services representatives have to perform, and some of the physical demands they involve:

• Customer service representatives in retail establishments
• Answer, in person or on the phone, enquiries from customers
• Investigate complaints regarding the establishment's goods, services and policies
• Arrange for refunds, exchange and credit for returned merchandise
• Receive account payments
• Receive credit and employment applications.
• Contact centre agents
• Take customer orders for goods or services
• Promote goods or services
• Respond to enquiries and emergencies
• Investigate complaints and update accounts.
• Customer service representatives in insurance, telecommunication, utility and similar companies
• Explain the type and cost of services offered
• Order services
• Provide information about claims or accounts
• Update accounts, initiate billing and process claim payments, and receive payment for services.
• Information services representatives
• Provide information to customers and the public concerning goods, services, schedules, rates, regulations and policies in response to telephone and in-person enquiries.

Physical demands Help - Physical Demands

• Handling material manually
• Making repetitive motions

Physical demands

Workplaces and employers.

Here are the typical workplaces where Other customer and information services representatives are employed and some of their main characteristics:

• Retail establishments

Work environment Help - Physical Work Environment

• Indoors, environmentally controlled

Physical proximity from others Help - Physical proximity from others

• Somewhat close (e.g. share office)

Work environment

Physical proximity from others, related job titles.

Here are some other related job titles that are found in the same occupational category (NOC 64409), and a list of similar occupations:

• accounts information clerk
• bus information clerk
• complaints clerk - customer service
• contact centre agent - customer service
• courtesy desk clerk
• customer service representative - call centre
• enquiries clerk
• information clerk - customer service
• lost-and-found clerk
• order desk agent
• public relations clerk
• tourist information clerk

Similar occupations Help - Similar occupations

Similar occupations.

• Retail salespersons and visual merchandisers
• Customer and information services supervisors
• Receptionists
• Ground and water transport ticket agents, cargo service representatives and related clerks
• Airline ticket and service agents
• Customer services representatives - financial institutions

Sources Occupational and Skills Information System & National Occupational Classification

How to Be Tourist Officer - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

• How to Become
• Job Descriptions
• Skill & Competencies
• Common Tools
• Professional Organizations

The rise in tourism in recent years has had a significant impact on the global economy. It has created jobs, increased income, and generated tax revenue for many countries. This has in turn led to an increase in infrastructure investment and more efficient transportation systems to accommodate the influx of travelers.

the tourism industry has been a major catalyst for promoting cultural exchange and understanding between different nations and diversifying the global economy. As a result, tourists have access to a wider range of experiences and destinations, while local economies benefit from increased foreign investment.

Steps How to Become

• Earn a Bachelor's Degree. To become a tourist officer, you need to earn a bachelor's degree in a field such as hospitality management, tourism, or business administration.
• Gain Experience. You can get experience in the tourism industry by volunteering in various capacities or seeking out internships related to your field.
• Obtain Certification. Many employers prefer to hire tourist officers with certification from reputable organizations, such as the Society of Travel and Tourism Professionals (STTP).
• Develop Soft Skills. Tourist officers need to have excellent customer service skills, as well as strong communication and negotiation abilities.
• Find a Job. Once you have the necessary qualifications, you can start searching for jobs as a tourist officer. Job opportunities are available with travel agencies, tour operators, and other tourist organizations.

Staying ahead and qualified in the tourism industry requires dedication and hard work. Tourists officers must stay up to date on the latest trends and technology, as well as develop their skills in customer service and communication. Keeping up with certifications and continuing education is key to staying ahead of the competition and staying certified.

staying organized and efficient are important for managing client requests, preparing itineraries, and staying on top of the latest travel trends. Understanding the local culture, customs, and languages of the area you are serving is also essential for providing an exceptional customer experience. By making an effort to stay ahead of the competition, a tourist officer can ensure their qualifications remain relevant and competitive in the industry.

You may want to check Tourist Transportation Coordinator , Tourist Attraction Guide , and Tourist Services Representative for alternative.

Job Description

• Provide information about local attractions and activities to tourists.
• Give directions to local sites and services.
• Make recommendations for accommodation, restaurants and other tourist-related services.
• Develop promotional materials, such as brochures, flyers, and other printed materials.
• Create promotional campaigns to attract tourists to the area.
• Update and maintain tourism websites.
• Coordinate activities and programs for tourists.
• Design and implement customer service programs.
• Respond to customer inquiries and complaints in a timely manner.
• Monitor industry trends and recommend changes to the organization's tourism policies and procedures accordingly.

Skills and Competencies to Have

• Knowledge of local and regional attractions, landmarks, and events.
• Excellent customer service skills.
• Ability to communicate effectively in both written and verbal formats.
• Knowledge of relevant safety regulations and procedures.
• Ability to plan, organize, and coordinate activities.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Proficiency in computer programs such as Microsoft Office and Adobe Suite.
• Ability to research and analyze data.
• Ability to handle confidential information with discretion.
• Knowledge of local and international travel regulations.

Having the right skills as a tourist officer is essential for success. Being able to communicate effectively and build relationships with customers is key. Having a good knowledge of the local area and attractions, as well as a good understanding of the needs of different types of customers is also essential.

Being able to provide helpful information on booking flights, accommodation, tours, and activities is important, as well as being able to offer travel advice and recommendations. A good knowledge of customer service principles and the ability to handle customer complaints quickly and efficiently is also important. Being organized and having good time management skills are critical for success in this role.

Finally, having a good understanding of marketing principles and the ability to promote destinations and experiences is important for tourism officers in order to attract more customers. All of these skills are necessary for a successful career as a tourist officer.

Tourist Information Officer , Tourist Attraction Manager , and Tourist Guide are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

• What experience do you have working in the tourism industry?
• How do you typically deal with customer complaints?
• How do you stay up to date on destination trends and regulations?
• Describe a successful marketing campaign you’ve created for a tourist destination.
• What methods do you use to promote tourist attractions?
• Describe a time you exceeded customer expectations.
• What strategies have you used to increase tourist visits to a destination?
• How do you handle complex bookings and reservations?
• What challenges have you faced while working in the tourism industry?
• How would you handle a difficult customer interaction?

Common Tools in Industry

• Trip Planner. A tool that helps organize and manage the logistics of travel plans. (eg: Expedia)
• Budgeting Tool. A tool to help plan and manage a travel budget. (eg: Mint)
• Social Networking Sites. Sites that allow travelers to connect with each other, share experiences, and find information. (eg: Facebook)
• Travel Apps. Mobile applications that provide travelers with information about their destinations, such as maps, reviews, and more. (eg: TripAdvisor)
• Image/Video Sharing Sites. Sites that allow travelers to upload images and videos of their trips for others to view and comment on. (eg: Instagram)
• Travel Blogging Sites. Sites that allow travelers to write about their trips and share their experiences with others. (eg: WordPress)
• Flight Tracking Apps. Apps that allow travelers to track the status of their flights in real-time. (eg: FlightAware)
• Language Translation Apps. Apps that allow travelers to easily translate text, phrases, and sentences into many different languages. (eg: Google Translate)

Professional Organizations to Know

• American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA)
• Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA)
• United States Tour Operators Association (USTOA)
• The International Air Transport Association (IATA)
• The International Association of Travel Agents Network (IATAN)
• Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA)
• The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA)
• The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO)
• The Global Business Travel Association (GBTA)
• The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC)

We also have Tourist Bus Driver , Tourist Escort , and Tourist Consultant jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

• Tourist Information Center (TIC). An establishment that provides visitors with information and services related to tourism in a given region.
• Tourist Attraction. A place or activity that draws visitors to a particular area.
• Accommodation. A place where tourists can stay while on holiday, such as a hotel, guesthouse, or campground.
• Tour Operator. A company that organizes and sells package holidays, including transportation, accommodation, and other services.
• Tour Guide. A person who leads tours and provides visitors with information about a particular area or attraction.
• Cultural Heritage. The physical evidence, tangible and intangible, of a particular culture, including monuments, artifacts, and oral traditions.
• Destination Management. The process of planning, developing, and managing destinations in order to attract tourists and create economic growth.
• Sustainable Tourism. Tourism that prioritizes the preservation of the environment and local culture, while also providing social and economic benefits to local communities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifications do i need to become a tourist officer.

To become a Tourist Officer, you will typically need a degree in a related field such as tourism, hospitality, or business. You may also need experience in customer service, marketing, and communication.

What duties does a Tourist Officer perform?

As a Tourist Officer, you will be responsible for helping to promote and market tourism destinations, providing information to tourists, assisting with the planning of events and activities, and helping to solve customer service issues.

What salary can I expect as a Tourist Officer?

The salary for a Tourist Officer will vary depending on experience and location, but typically ranges between $30,000 and $50,000 per year.

Can I become a Tourist Officer without a degree?

While it is possible to become a Tourist Officer without a degree, it is not recommended since it may limit your career opportunities. Having a degree in a related field such as tourism, hospitality, or business will give you an edge when applying for positions.

What type of environment will I be working in as a Tourist Officer?

As a Tourist Officer, you will likely be working in both indoor and outdoor environments. You may be expected to work in an office or tourist information center to provide information to visitors, as well as travel to locations to promote tourism destinations or assist with events and activities.

What are jobs related with Tourist Officer?

• Tourist Shuttle Driver
• Tourist Destination Manager
• Tourist Attraction Security Guard
• Tourist Attraction Supervisor
• Tourist Liaison Officer
• Tourist Interpreter
• Tourist Helper
• Tourist Attraction Maintenance Worker
• Tourist Receptionist

Web Resources

• Tourist Information Officer - TAFE NSW nsfsakai.nthsydney.tafensw.edu.au
• Office - Department of tourist and recreation business tourism.ontu.edu.ua
• What is Travel and Tourism Management? Career Scope - Leverage Edu leverageedu.com

ALERT This website will soon be archived with the creation of Jobs and Skills Australia (JSA) and is no longer being updated. Visit the JSA webpage at www.jobsandskills.gov.au

Tourist Information Officers

• On this page

Earnings and hours

Worker profile.

• Employment pathways
• Skills and knowledge

Interests and demands

Links and downloads.

Tourist Information Officers provide travel and accommodation information to tourists. They may work in call centres.

Also known as: Tourist Adviser.

Formal qualifications are not essential to work as a Tourist Information Officer. Although some workers have a Vocational Education and Training (VET) qualification or a university degree in tourism or another related field.

Answers inquiries from tourists and offers suggestions about tours, travel routes, accommodation and local customs.

Provides literature and information on local and inter-island tours and places of interest.

Discusses transport availability and cost.

May work in a call centre.

Characteristics

• 451611 Tourist Information Officers
• 451612 Travel Consultants
• Administrative and Support Services
• Arts and Recreation Services
• Public Administration and Safety
• Transport, Postal and Warehousing
• Vocational Education and Training (VET)
• Informal or on-the-job
• Administrative
• Enterprising

JSA produces employment projections to show where likely future job opportunities may be. Employment projections data are only produced for occupations at the broad four digit Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO) level. While data are not available for this occupation, projections data are available for the parent occupation, Tourism and Travel Advisers , under the outlook section.

Working arrangements

Around 50% of people employed as Tourist Information Officers work full-time hours, in all their jobs combined. This is 16 percentage points below the all jobs average (66%).

Full-time workers work an average of 42 hours per week in their main job. This is similar to the all jobs average (44 hours per week).

Sources:Full-time share and full-time hours: ABS, 2016 Census, customised report. Compared to the all jobs average.

Main industries

• Administrative and support services
• Public administration and safety
• Arts and recreation services

Source: Based on ABS Census 2016, Customised Report.

Employment across Australia

Employment by state and territory (% share).

Around 71% of Tourist Information Officers live outside of capital cities, compared with the all jobs average of 38%.

Tasmania and Western Australia have a large share of employment relative to their population size.

The regions with the largest share of workers are:

• Western Australia - Outback (South)

Source: Based on ABS Census 2016, Customised Report. Share of workers across Australian states, territories and regions, in this job compared to the all jobs average.

Age and gender

The median age of Tourist Information Officers is 45 years. This is higher than the all jobs average of 40 years.

A large share of workers are aged 45 to 54 years.

Females make up 79% of the workforce. This is 31 percentage points above the all jobs average of 48%.

Source: Based on ABS Census 2016, Customised Report. Age profile and gender share compared to the all jobs average.

Age Profile (% Share)

Source: Based on ABS Census 2016, Customised Report. Age profile of workers in this job compared to the all jobs average.

Employment Pathways

Education, training and experience.

• My Skills to compare Vocational Education and Training (VET) courses, providers and student outcomes.
• AAPathways website to explore Tourism, Travel and Hospitality VET training pathways.

Highest Level of Education (% Share)

Source: ABS Census 2016, Customised Report. Highest qualification completed by workers in this job (in any field of study). Qualifications needed by new workers might be different from the qualifications of workers already in the job.

Skills and Knowledge

Employers look for Tourism and Travel Advisers who provide good customer service, can communicate clearly and have strong people skills.

Skills can be improved through training or experience.

Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions.

Looking for ways to help people.

Thinking about the pros and cons of different ways to solve a problem.

Talking to others.

Reading work related information.

Understanding why people react the way they do.

Talking people into changing their minds or their behaviour.

Being able to use what you have learnt to solve problems now and again in the future.

Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it.

Being adaptable and coordinating work with other people.

Figuring out the pros and cons of different options and choosing the best one.

Managing your own and other peoples' time to get work done.

Writing things for co-workers or customers.

Keeping track of how well work is progressing so you can make changes or improvements.

Bringing people together and trying to sort out their differences.

Teaching people how to do something.

Figuring out the best way to teach or learn something new.

Using maths to solve problems.

Figuring out how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the environment will affect it.

Measuring how well a system is working and how to improve it.

These are important topics, subjects or knowledge areas.

Understanding customer needs, providing good quality service, and measuring customer satisfaction.

Circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.

Moving people or goods by air, rail, sea, or road.

Describing land, sea, and air, including their physical characteristics, locations, how they work together, and the location of plant, animal, and human life.

English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.

Human behaviour; differences in ability, personality, and interests; learning and motivation; research methods; assessing and treating disorders.

Showing, promoting, and selling including marketing strategy, product demonstration, sales techniques, and sales control systems.

How our laws and courts work. Government rules and regulations, and the political system.

Use of equipment, rules and ideas to protect people, data, property, and institutions.

Word processing, managing files and records, stenography and transcription, designing forms, and other office work.

Arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, or statistics.

Media production, communication, and dissemination. Includes written, spoken, and visual media.

Curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.

Business principles involved in strategic planning, leadership, and coordinating people and resources.

Foreign (non-English) language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition and grammar, and pronunciation.

Recruiting and training people, managing pay and other entitlements (like sick leave), and negotiating pay and conditions.

Philosophical systems and religions, including their basic principles, values, ethics, ways of thinking, customs, practices, and impact on society.

Raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and ways of making and distributing goods.

Diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of physical and mental dysfunctions, and career counselling and guidance.

Transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of telecommunications systems.

Workers use these physical and mental abilities..

Communicate by speaking.

Speak clearly so others can understand you.

Identify and understand the speech of another person.

See details that are up-close (within a few feet).

Listen to and understand what people say.

Read and understand written information.

Use general rules to find answers or solve problems logically.

Order or arrange things in a pattern or sequence (e.g., numbers, letters, words, pictures, mathematical operations).

Come up with different ways of grouping things.

Use lots of detailed information to come up with answers or make general rules.

Notice when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong, even if you can't solve the problem.

Write in a way that people can understand.

Come up with a number of ideas about a topic, even if the ideas aren't very good.

See details that are far away.

Pay attention to something without being distracted.

Do two or more things at the same time.

Come up with unusual or clever ideas, or creative ways to solve a problem.

See a pattern (a figure, object, word, or sound) hidden in other distracting material.

Put together small parts with your fingers.

Use your eyes to quickly compare groups of letters, numbers, pictures, or other things.

These are kinds of activities workers regularly do in this job.

Greeting or serving customers, clients or guests, and public speaking or performing.

Using information to work out the best solution and solve problems.

Giving information to co-workers by telephone, in writing, or in person.

Building good working relationships and keeping them over time.

Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, moving and manipulating objects.

Comparing objects, actions, or events. Looking for differences between them or changes over time.

Giving information to the public, business or government by telephone, in writing, or in person.

Keeping up-to-date with technology and new ideas.

Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or checking information or data.

Handling complaints and disagreements, and negotiating with people.

Deciding whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.

Use your arms, legs and whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling objects.

Providing personal assistance, medical attention, or emotional support.

Checking objects, actions, or events, and keeping an eye out for problems.

Looking for, getting and understanding different kinds of information.

Using computers to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.

Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.

Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials for errors, problems or defects.

Helping people to understand and use information.

Looking at, working with, and understanding data or information.

Learn about the daily activities, and physical and social demands faced by workers. Explore the values and work styles that workers rate as most important.

Interests are the style or type of work we prefer to do. All interest areas are shown below.

Following set procedures and routines. Working with numbers and details more than with ideas, usually following rules.

Starting up and carrying out projects. Leading people and making many decisions. Sometimes require risk taking and often deal with business.

Working with people. Helping or providing service to others.

Working with forms, designs and patterns. Often need self-expression and can be done without following rules.

Practical, hands-on work. Often with plants and animals, or materials like wood, tools, and machinery.

Ideas and thinking. Searching for facts and figuring out problems in your head.

Serve and work with others. Workers usually get along well with each other, do things to help other people, and are rarely pressured to do things that go against their sense of right and wrong.

Work alone and make decisions. Workers are able to try out their own ideas, make decisions on their own, and work with little or no supervision.

Supportive management that stands behind employees. Workers are treated fairly by their company, they are supported by management, and have supervisors who train them well.

Results oriented. Workers are able to use their strongest abilities, giving them a feeling of accomplishment.

Job security and good working conditions. There is usually a steady flow of interesting work, and the pay and conditions are generally good.

Advancement and the potential to lead. Workers are recognised for the work that they do, they may give directions and instructions to others, and they are looked up to in their company and their community.

Have contact with people by telephone, face-to-face, or any other way.

Repeat the same tasks or activities (e.g., key entry) over and over, without stopping.

Work indoors with access to heating or cooling.

Be very exact or highly accurate.

Work with customers or the public.

Frequently make decisions that impact other people.

Talk with people face-to-face.

Talk on the telephone.

Work to strict deadlines.

Work with people in a group or team.

Work physically close to other people.

Have freedom to make decision on your own.

Deal with unpleasant, angry, or rude people.

Make decisions that have a large impact on other people.

Be exposed to noises and sounds that are distracting or uncomfortable.

Deal with conflict or disagreements.

Do tasks that are mostly automated.

Spend time making repetitive motions.

Talk to a group of people.

Work where mistakes have serious consequences.

Related occupations

Low to medium skill level.

• Ticket Salespersons
• Travel Attendants
• Gallery, Museum and Tour Guides
• Cafe Workers

High skill level

• Artistic Directors, Media Producers & Presenters
• Caravan Park and Camping Ground Managers

Research and reports

Related links.

• Australian Travel Careers Council
• Tourism Australia

Occupation profiles data are available for download.

The Employment Projections are available for download.

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Tourist information centre manager

Tourist information centre managers oversee services that provide information and promote the local area and attractions to visitors and locals

As the manager of a tourist information centre, you'll promote the local services available, including:

• accommodation
• leisure facilities
• visitor attractions.

You'll book accommodation, sell tickets for local events, order and sell gifts and souvenirs, run special events and generate marketing opportunities.

Your management duties will include the daily running of the centre, networking, staff management and recruitment, and ensuring targets are met.

Tourist information centres are also known as visitor information centres, so jobs may be advertised as visitor information centre manager.

Responsibilities

As a tourist information centre manager, you'll need to:

• publicise the centre's services and implement marketing strategies to raise the profile of the centre, increase footfall and sales, and generate more income
• marketing may include managing social media and creating promotional campaigns
• control and monitor the centre's budget to make sure targets are met in the most cost-effective way
• gather information on, and work with, local businesses and visitor attractions
• buy merchandise and souvenirs for the tourist market to sell in the gift shop
• research and visit attractions and accommodation
• keep up to date with changes in tourist activities and events
• plan and organise events
• produce guides and other marketing literature
• communicate information to members of the public and deal with enquiries in person and by post, email, social media and phone
• operate accommodation and other booking services, selling tickets for travel and local events
• ensure the centre is well presented, organised, easy to use and accessible, and that leaflets and posters are well stocked
• prepare reports for senior management and attend meetings with senior managers and tourism businesses
• manage the recruitment and training of staff
• supervise staff and volunteers, assigning responsibilities and delegating tasks accordingly
• work out staff rotas and cover for the centre.
• Starting salaries for tourist information centre officers or assistants range from £15,000 to £20,000.
• With experience and progressing to a supervisor level, you could earn up to £25,000.
• If you're in a managerial role, you can expect to earn in the region of £25,000 to £35,000.

Income figures are intended as a guide only.

Working hours

You'll usually work around 37 hours a week over five days, often including weekends. Part-time, temporary or seasonal work is common.

Some centres, particularly in urban areas, are open seven days a week, including bank holidays. In smaller places, however, centres may have reduced opening hours during the winter or be closed on certain days and only open, for example, at the weekend when people are more likely to visit.

What to expect

• Tourist information centres exist in most cities and many towns and in rural areas of interest to tourists and visitors. They can also be found in libraries, ports, motorway services and airports.
• As this is a public-facing role you'll be required to dress smartly, possibly even in uniform.
• You can be very busy, particularly in the tourist season when you have to deal with a large number of enquiries.
• Most travel in the working day is local, mainly to visit attractions, events and businesses.
• You may need to travel to other centres to compare working practices and systems, and to attend conferences or trade events, which may be held anywhere in the UK. This could mean the occasional overnight absence from home.

Qualifications

You don't need a degree to become a tourist information centre manager. You could start as an assistant and, with experience, work your way up to the role of manager. You could also move across from another retail or customer-focused job.

Entry is possible with a degree in any subject but useful degree, HND or foundation subjects include:

• archive and museum studies
• business or management studies
• information technology
• librarianship or information management
• modern languages
• politics, government or public administration
• travel, tourism or leisure studies.

Personal qualities and proven business skills are seen as just as important for the role as academic qualifications.

You'll need to have:

• excellent communication skills for dealing with customers and contacts in local businesses and visitor attractions
• good interpersonal and management skills to lead a team of staff
• a methodical, motivated and customer-focused approach to work
• an enthusiastic, friendly and confident manner
• problem-solving ability and negotiating skills to successfully run the centre
• knowledge of the UK, especially the area where you're applying for work
• IT skills to help with website development, social media, e-commerce and online booking
• business or commercial awareness
• language skills - not essential but can be useful for speaking to tourists from different countries.

Work experience

Pre-entry experience in the tourism, travel or leisure industry is important, especially in a busy front-line role dealing with the public. Part-time, and in some cases seasonal, opportunities are available in:

• tourist information centres
• local authority leisure departments
• travel agencies
• tour companies.

Experience in retail, marketing or the information sector (for example, in a library or museum) is also useful.

Some tourism-related degrees include an optional work placement year that can help you build up relevant experience. Getting involved with local groups or associations is also useful and shows your commitment to the area.

Many tourist information centre managers have had previous jobs in other related sectors and use the skills and experience they've built up to move into managing a tourist information centre.

Find out more about the different kinds of  work experience and internships  that are available.

The main employers of tourist information centre managers are local authorities, usually district, borough or city councils.

Other employers include:

• national parks
• wildlife trusts
• water authorities
• private tourist attractions
• area tourism partnerships
• the National Trust and the National Trust for Scotland
• English Heritage
• The Forestry Commission.

Funding for tourist information centres is no longer guaranteed and councils have had to make cutbacks in recent years. This, along with more people accessing information on the internet, has created some uncertainty about the future of tourist centres. The use of volunteers has also made paid positions more competitive.

In some cases, where funding is limited or removed altogether, tourist information centres have survived by merging with council one-stop shops and offering a reduced service, or by moving into the private sector and merging with local businesses or attractions.

Look for job vacancies at:

• jobsgopublic
• local authority and council websites - for contact and website details, search Find your local council .
• Local Government Jobs
• Tourism Management Institute - vacancies accessible to TMI members.

Professional development

Most of your training will be on the job. You may receive induction training and there may also be opportunities to attend training and courses on specific topics, such as:

• customer care
• merchandising
• disability awareness
• management.

You'll also be required to familiarise yourself with local attractions and facilities.

Funding for training may be available from your local authority. You're largely responsible for your own continuing professional development (CPD) and will need to identify your own training needs, e.g. in managing staff, and then look out for relevant training opportunities.

Becoming a member of a professional body can be useful for networking and professional development opportunities, and give you access to the latest industry news. Relevant organisations include:

• Institute of Travel and Tourism (ITT)
• Tourism Management Institute
• The Tourism Society

The national tourism resource Visit Britain provides useful news, insights and resources for tourism professionals.

Career prospects

You may begin your career as a tourist information centre assistant. With experience, there may be opportunities to move into a supervisory position and on to manager level. Alternatively, you may move sideways into the role from a management post in a related sector.

Career development may involve moving into other local government posts within tourism or marketing. Another possibility is to join one of the regional or national tourist boards, where the work may involve the development of the tourism strategy for the area and marketing the region to visitors.

The experience you gain as a tourist information centre manager can also be used in information services, for example, in libraries and information management. However, for this type of move, a postgraduate qualification may be necessary. Alternatively, you could move into the retail sector or the service or hospitality industries.

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• Home: Explore careers

Tourist information centre assistant

Alternative titles for this job include.

Tourist information centre assistants give information to visitors about transport, tourist attractions and local services and activities.

Average salary (a year)

£15,000 Starter

£25,000 Experienced

Typical hours (a week)

28 to 30 variable

You could work

evenings / weekends / bank holidays

How to become

How to become a tourist information centre assistant.

You can get into this job through:

• a college course
• applying directly

You could take a college course like:

• Level 2 Award in the Principles of Customer Service in Leisure, Travel and Tourism
• Level 2 Diploma in Travel and Tourism
• Level 3 Applied Certificate in Tourism

Entry requirements

You may need:

• 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent, for a level 2 course
• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a level 3 course

More Information

• equivalent entry requirements
• funding advice
• search for courses

Direct Application

You could apply directly for jobs. There are no set entry requirements but it may help if you have:

• a good knowledge of the local area and its attractions and facilities
• experience of customer service
• the ability to speak one or more foreign languages
• GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C)

You may get tested on local knowledge and your ability to research queries.

Career tips

You're likely to find paid or volunteer work with local authority tourist information centres, national parks, museums and sites of cultural and historical interest.

What it takes

Skills and knowledge.

You'll need:

• customer service skills
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• a desire to help people
• excellent verbal communication skills
• the ability to work well with others
• administration skills
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• sensitivity and understanding
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

What you’ll do

What you'll do, day-to-day tasks.

In your day-to-day duties you could:

• answer customer queries in person, by phone and email
• do research using things like the internet, travel guides and timetables
• provide accurate information on things to see and do and where to stay
• make bookings for travel, entertainment, visitor attractions and accommodation
• set up displays within the centre and re-stock literature
• keep up to date with local accommodation, places to visit, activities and events
• act as an ambassador for the local area and attractions
• serve and sell souvenirs and other items from gift shop

Working environment

You could work at an information centre, at an airport, at a port or in a museum.

You may need to wear a uniform.

Career path and progression

With experience, you could become a Tourist Information Centre (TIC) supervisor or manager.

You could also move into local authority tourism departments, regional or area tourist board jobs, or to other areas of the travel and tourism industry.

Current opportunities

Apprenticeships in england.

We can't find any apprenticeship vacancies in England for a tourist information centre assistant right now.

The Find an apprenticeship service can help you with your search, send alerts when new apprenticeships become available and has advice on how to apply.

Courses In England

Travel & tourism.

• Provider: SHIRELAND COLLEGIATE ACADEMY
• Start date: 01 September 2024
• Location: Smethwick

Travel and Tourism

• Provider: HULL COLLEGE
• Start date: 03 September 2024
• Location: Hull

Jobs In the United Kingdom

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Not what you're looking for?

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• Airline customer service agent
• Resort representative
• Airport information assistant
• Customer service assistant

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