Invigilator

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Role Description/Purpose

The British Council provides access to English language qualifications and other UK assessments through its Examinations Services. These qualifications have the power to transform lives, opening doors to study, work, and life opportunities both overseas and within candidates’ own countries. Examinations and qualifications are among the most powerful drivers of progress in teaching, learning, and professional practice.

Our Examinations Services administer a wide range of UK exams on behalf of UK-based exam boards and awarding bodies. These include internationally recognised English proficiency tests such as IELTS, Cambridge English, and Aptis, school qualifications such as IGCSE, O and A levels for Cambridge International Examinations (CIE) and Edexcel International, as well as professional and university qualifications including ACCA in accounting.

In Spain, we deliver exams in venues across the country. This role will be based at one of our main centres in Barcelona, Bilbao, Madrid, or Palma, supporting the delivery of examinations within the areas managed by these centres. As an Invigilator, you will be part of a wider team of venue staff responsible for ensuring the smooth running of test days. You will work closely with British Council Examinations Services staff, other venue colleagues, and service providers to guarantee that every candidate experiences a professional and well-organised exam environment.

The role requires commitment to maintaining the highest standards of exam administration and ensuring that all assigned duties are carried out effectively. By joining our team, you will play a vital part in helping candidates achieve qualifications that can change their futures.

Role Accountabilities

The British Council is seeking Exam Invigilators to support the smooth delivery of examinations across Spain. This role is vital in ensuring that test days run seamlessly and that candidates experience a professional and well-organised environment.

Invigilators are expected to report promptly to the test venue at the agreed time. In the event of delays or inability to attend, they must inform the appropriate British Council Examinations Services staff in a timely manner. Responsibilities include setting up exam rooms and venues, checking desk distances, labelling desks, preparing accurate room plans, and putting up signage. Invigilators also monitor and manage candidate flow, guiding participants through the pre-exam journey and explaining procedures such as restrictions on mobile phones and the requirement to leave personal belongings in designated areas.

After the exam, invigilators collect all materials, including stationery, ensuring the venue is left clean and tidy. They account for, package, and secure all materials in line with British Council security instructions, returning them to the exams office or handing them over securely to the supervisor. They work closely with the Test Day Supervisor to promote candidate wellbeing, ensuring a consistent and positive test day experience that reflects the British Council’s reputation.

The role requires strict adherence to prescribed standards of customer service, security, and administration. Invigilators must follow instructions from the Operations Coordinator or other exam staff and uphold policies relating to child protection, equal opportunities and diversity, health and safety, data protection, and anti-fraud. They are responsible for ensuring that no unauthorised items enter the exam room and that no test materials leave it.

In addition, invigilators enable a positive customer experience by guiding candidates to follow agreed exam procedures regarding the location and security of their belongings. They conduct candidate entry and exit processes, identity checks, and test day photography procedures in accordance with exam requirements.

By joining our team, you will play a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of the British Council’s examinations and supporting candidates in achieving qualifications that can transform their futures.

Qualifications & Experience  

Essentials

• Bachillerato or FP Superior.
• English language level of CEFR B2 (Listening, Speaking, Reading, Writing skills) or equivalent (e.g. Cambridge English FCE, IELTS 6.5).
• Experience of dealing with customers.
• Experience of responding to children/ young adults and parents' needs (as customers) in a professional manner, to a high level of quality. 
• Ability to understand compliance regulated procedures. 

Desirables

• University Degree.
• English language level of CEFR C1 (Listening, Speaking, Reading, Writing skills) or equivalent (e.g. Cambridge English CAE, IELTS 7) or above. 
• Awareness of safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.
• Relevant exam invigilation experience.

Important Information:

• Location: Barcelona (On-site).
• Salary: Payband 2 ESP.    
• Proof of Identity & Right to Work: Locally Recruited - Applications are welcomed from candidates currently in this location with a natural right to work. Applications are also welcomed from candidates currently based in other British Council country offices. However, please note candidates must have a natural right to work in the country, on a permanent basis, as immigration clearance and/or on-going visa support is not provided by the British Council for this role. Relocation support is also not provided
• Contract type: Indefinite. 
• Some invigilators may be required to travel, including overnight stays and/or work weekends (Saturdays and /or Sundays), public holidays. The majority will not have this requirement. During the recruitment process you will be asked to indicate your willingness to travel. 
• Some invigilators may be required to work extended hours in the early morning or late evening, as this is when many examinations take place – requiring flexibility from post holders to work beyond the prior agreed work schedule

Closing date  – Sunday 14th December 2025

A connected and trusted UK in a more connected and trusted world.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Statement

We are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and welcome applications from all sections of the community as we believe that a diverse workforce gives added depth to our work. The British Council is a Disability Confident Employer. The Disability Confident scheme helps challenge attitudes, increase understanding of disability and ensure staff are drawn from the widest possible pool of talent. We guarantee an interview for disabled applicants who meet the minimum role requirements. We welcome discussions about specific requirements or adjustments to enable participation and engagement in our work and activities.

Safeguarding Statement

The British Council is committed to safeguarding children, young people and adults who we work with. We believe that all children and adults everywhere in the world deserve to live in safe environments and have the right to be protected from all forms of abuse, maltreatment and exploitation as set out in article 19, UNCRC (United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child) 1989. Appointment to positions where there is direct involvement with vulnerable groups will be dependent on thorough checks being completed in line with legal requirements and with the British Council’s Safeguarding policies for Adults and Children.

If you experience any difficulties with submitting your application, please email askhr@britishcouncil.org