Tourism officer: Salary and conditions

• Salaries at entry level are in the region of £15,000 - £19,000, depending on the employer and geographical location.
• Range of typical salaries after two to five years in the role: £21,000 - £28,000; and after five years: £30,000 - £40,000.
• Salaries vary depending on the type of employer and the area of tourism involved. Salaries also depend on line management responsibility for other tourism personnel.
• Tourism officers often work a standard 37-hour week, but might be required to work unsocial hours in the evenings and at weekends when attending meetings, events and exhibitions.
• The work is usually office based, but may involve work outside and at different locations during the working day.
• Self-employment or freelance work is possible, after gaining a good level of experience in the sector.
• Jobs are available in most geographical areas. Most local authorities employ tourism officers or economic or visitor development officers, although there is often only one post per area.
• Setting up exhibitions and events can be physically demanding, especially if you are working alone.
• The job may be stressful when you are combining working to tight deadlines, attending meetings and dealing directly with members of the public.
• Invitations to new exhibitions and entertainment venues can be an attraction of working in this industry.
• Absence from home at night and overseas work or travel may be required.

Salary figures are intended as a guide only.