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- Tasks: Support local authority research on the Attainment Challenge for children and young people.
- Company: Join South Ayrshire Council, a vibrant community-focused organisation with rich heritage.
- Benefits: Enjoy generous leave, wellbeing initiatives, discounts, and a hybrid work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in your community while developing valuable research skills.
- Qualifications: No specific qualifications required, but a passion for education and research is essential.
- Other info: Interviews scheduled for 22/08/2025; flexible working between home and office.
The predicted salary is between 36427 - 39694 £ per year.
Location: Admin Base County Buildings Wellington Square, KA7 1DR
Salary: £36,427 – £39,694 per year
Contract Type: Permanent
Position Type: Full Time
Hours: 35 hours per week
JOB DESCRIPTION
The Research Assistant will provide support to the local authority regarding the Attainment Challenge. This will ensure that the work of the Attainment Challenge continues to be evidence based and evaluated to show outcomes for children and young people. The role will involve developing and collating research as well as writing up the results of the research for feedback to the local authority and Scottish Government. In addition, the Researcher will also be involved in the evaluation of multi-agency, across- authority initiatives and Education Programmes.
If you apply for this post, please ensure your email provider accepts emails from noreply@myjobscotland.gov.uk by adding Myjobscotland as a safe sender. If you are unsure how to do this, please contact your email provider for guidance, as this varies per provider.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Please click on the Job Attachments to access the Job Description.
ABOUT US
South Ayrshire is at the heart of historic Ayrshire, with a wealth of local heritage and culture, first class leisure amenities, world-wide travel links, diverse landscapes and thriving communities.
Making a difference for our communities is at the heart of what we do and working with us means, you can use your skills, knowledge and experience to help us do just that. We currently employ around 6000 people to serve a population of more than 112,000 people located across a diverse area that includes the towns of Ayr, Girvan, Maybole, Prestwick and Troon as well as small rural villages, coastline and farmland.
We are an ambitious Council, and we aim to place people at the centre of everything we do as we look to deliver the best possible outcomes. We are ambitious for our communities too and our new Council Plan is based on priorities and outcomes that we believe will have the greatest impact on the wellbeing of our communities, our local economy, and our environment.
BENEFITS
Here’s what we can offer!
- Generous annual leave entitlement and enhanced leave scheme (purchase of up to 2 weeks’ holidays)
- Wellbeing initiatives and Occupational Health services
- A healthy environment supportive of work-life balance and caring responsibilities
- Car leasing scheme
- Discounts on major supermarkets and retailers, cinemas and gym memberships (including Council leisure facilities)
- Purchase of white goods and more via salary sacrifice
- Cycle to Work Scheme
- Scotwest Credit Union
REQUIREMENTS
This post is considered to be Regulated Work with children and/or protected adults as specified in the Protection of Vulnerable Groups (Scotland) (PVG) Act 2007. Accordingly, the preferred candidate will be required to become a member of the PVG Scheme, or undergo a PVG Scheme update if already a Scheme member, prior to any formal offer of employment being made. If you wish further information on the PVG Scheme you can visit the Disclosure Scotland website at www.disclosurescotland.co.uk .
Please note you may be required to meet PVG costs.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Interviews for this post are scheduled for 22/08/2025.
The grade of this post is Level 8.
The work style for this post is Hybrid Worker.
Hybrid Workers
The successful candidate will be required to work flexibly between home and the office and the frequency for attending the office may vary depending on the exigencies of the service.
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Research Assistant - County Buildings - SOA11505 employer: South Ayrshire Council
Contact Detail:
South Ayrshire Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Assistant - County Buildings - SOA11505
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the Attainment Challenge and its objectives. Understanding the key goals and current initiatives will help you demonstrate your knowledge during interviews and show how you can contribute effectively.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the education and research sectors. Attend local events or webinars related to educational research, as this can provide valuable insights and connections that may benefit your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with data analysis and research methodologies. Be ready to share specific examples of past projects where you've successfully evaluated outcomes, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Research South Ayrshire Council's recent initiatives and community projects. Being knowledgeable about their work will not only impress during interviews but also help you align your skills with their mission and values.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Assistant - County Buildings - SOA11505
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Research Assistant position. Tailor your application to highlight relevant experience and skills that align with the role.
Craft a Strong CV: Ensure your CV is up-to-date and clearly outlines your educational background, research experience, and any relevant skills. Use bullet points for clarity and focus on achievements that demonstrate your capability in research and evaluation.
Write a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should express your enthusiasm for the role and the organisation. Highlight specific experiences that relate to the Attainment Challenge and how you can contribute to evidence-based outcomes for children and young people.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects attention to detail, which is crucial for a research role.
How to prepare for a job interview at South Ayrshire Council
✨Understand the Attainment Challenge
Familiarise yourself with the Attainment Challenge and its objectives. Be prepared to discuss how your research skills can contribute to evidence-based outcomes for children and young people.
✨Showcase Your Research Experience
Prepare examples of your previous research projects, particularly those involving evaluation and collaboration with multiple agencies. Highlight your ability to collate data and write comprehensive reports.
✨Demonstrate Flexibility and Adaptability
As a hybrid worker, it's important to convey your ability to work both independently and as part of a team. Share experiences where you've successfully adapted to changing work environments or requirements.
✨Prepare Questions for the Interviewers
Think of insightful questions to ask about the role and the local authority's initiatives. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
