At a Glance
- Tasks: Support elections and maintain the electoral register across North Yorkshire.
- Company: Join a dynamic team at North Yorkshire Council, serving a diverse community.
- Benefits: Generous annual leave, pension scheme, health perks, and lifestyle discounts.
- Other info: Flexible working under pressure with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in your community while gaining valuable experience.
- Qualifications: Strong communication skills and a solid understanding of electoral processes.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 € per year.
Weekend Working: Occasionally as required at election times only.
We are seeking an Electoral Services Officer to join our Elections team and support the delivery of all elections, polls, and the maintenance of the electoral register. While this role will primarily be based with our Harrogate locality team, you will also contribute to work across the whole of North Yorkshire. This is an exciting and challenging opportunity for a highly motivated individual. Reporting to the Principal Electoral Services Officers and supported by the Electoral Services Manager, you will play a key role in:
- Maintaining the electoral register by processing applications throughout the year, including postal and proxy vote requests submitted both online and on paper.
- Supporting the annual household canvass, ensuring accurate property records and efficient delivery.
- Assisting with the delivery of elections and polls, including organising polling materials, booking polling stations, appointing staff, and participating in key processes such as the count.
The role involves working flexibly under pressure to meet tight deadlines, including evenings and weekends during election periods. We are looking for someone resilient, adaptable, and committed to delivering high-quality electoral services.
You will also bring:
- Solid understanding of electoral rules, regulations, and best practices.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills as the role will involve speaking to residents over the phone, by email and in person.
- Proficiency in IT systems and applications.
- Political awareness and sound judgment.
- Excellent time management skills with the ability to prioritise your own workload effectively.
- The ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team.
- An AEA Certificate (or a willingness to work towards achieving it).
Working for us: North Yorkshire is a unitary authority and the largest by geography in England, serving an electorate of around 480,000. This scale brings a diverse and dynamic range of election activity—from unscheduled by-elections in smaller rural communities to major, full-area polls that attract significant political interest and media attention. When you join us, you’ll enjoy an excellent benefits package and a comprehensive wellbeing plan.
- Generous annual leave: Starting at 28 days and rising to 34 days (pro-rata) with continuous service, plus public holidays.
- Pension scheme: Secure your future with our local government pension scheme, featuring an employer contribution of 22.6%.
- Health & fitness perks: Access discounted memberships at gyms across the county—stay active and save money.
- Lifestyle savings: Enjoy a wide range of discounts at hundreds of popular high-street and online retailers.
If you would like to learn more about our opportunity, we recommend contacting Janice Senior on 01757 292232. To apply, we’d like to hear about you and what motivates you. Please complete the supporting evidence section of the application form, explaining your reasons for applying and how you meet the essential criteria for the role.
Venue for Interview: Harrogate Civic Centre. Postholders are subject to employment clearances to meet Baseline Personnel Security Standards which includes identity, employment history, right to work, time spent abroad and unspent criminal record (basic DBS) vetting. This is a politically restricted post as defined by the Local Government and Housing Act 1989. NYC are committed to directly recruiting staff and will not accept applications nor services from agency suppliers in respect of our vacancies. We are committed to meeting the needs of our diverse community and aim to have a workforce reflecting this diversity. We are also committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults. We expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. North Yorkshire Councils’ purpose is to deliver services and facilities to the diverse residents and visitors of North Yorkshire. To ensure we deliver inclusive services we strive to have a diverse workforce where everybody can be themselves by respecting differences and embedding equality of opportunity. We celebrate diversity and recognise each other’s contributions; we therefore welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds.
Electoral Services Officer in Harrogate employer: Applefields School
Joining North Yorkshire Council as an Electoral Services Officer offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the democratic process in one of England's largest unitary authorities. With a strong commitment to employee wellbeing, you will benefit from generous annual leave, a robust pension scheme, and health perks, all within a supportive work culture that values diversity and inclusivity. This role not only allows for professional growth through exposure to a wide range of electoral activities but also fosters a collaborative environment where your contributions are recognised and valued.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Electoral Services Officer in Harrogate
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the electoral process inside out! Brush up on the rules and regulations, so you can chat confidently about them during interviews. This shows you're not just interested in the role but genuinely passionate about making a difference.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former Electoral Services Officers on LinkedIn or at local events. They can give you insider tips and might even put in a good word for you when you apply through our website.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! Since you'll be dealing with residents, it's crucial to convey information clearly and effectively. Try role-playing scenarios with friends or family to build your confidence.
✨Tip Number 4
Be ready to showcase your adaptability! The role requires working under pressure, especially during elections. Prepare examples of how you've handled tight deadlines or unexpected challenges in the past to impress the interviewers.
We think you need these skills to ace Electoral Services Officer in Harrogate
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When you're writing your application, let your enthusiasm for the role shine through! We want to see why you're excited about becoming an Electoral Services Officer and how you can contribute to our team.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the job description. Mention specific responsibilities from the role that resonate with you and demonstrate your understanding of electoral services.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your writing straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and long-winded sentences. Make it easy for us to see how you meet the essential criteria!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity with North Yorkshire Council.
How to prepare for a job interview at Applefields School
✨Know Your Electoral Stuff
Make sure you brush up on electoral rules, regulations, and best practices before the interview. Being able to discuss these confidently will show that you're serious about the role and understand what it entails.
✨Show Off Your Communication Skills
Since you'll be interacting with residents over the phone, by email, and in person, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. Consider doing mock interviews with a friend to refine your communication style and ensure you come across as approachable and professional.
✨Demonstrate Flexibility and Resilience
The role requires working under pressure and meeting tight deadlines, especially during election periods. Be prepared to share examples from your past experiences where you've successfully managed stress and adapted to changing circumstances.
✨Highlight Your Team Spirit
This position involves both independent work and collaboration. Think of instances where you've worked effectively in a team setting and be ready to discuss how you can contribute to the Elections team while also managing your own workload.