At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the Democratic Services team with admin tasks and customer interactions.
- Company: Join Harborough District Council, committed to vibrant community engagement.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible hybrid working, generous leave, and free office parking.
- Other info: Flexible hours and job-share options available for work-life balance.
- Why this job: Make a difference in local governance while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: GCSE English and Maths (Grade C or above) and Microsoft Office proficiency.
The predicted salary is between 31325 - 40000 £ per year.
Location: Hybrid working – a combination of remote working and office working in Market Harborough, Leicestershire
Status: Permanent
Hours: 37 hours per week
Grade: 3
Car user: Casual
Free office parking
Generous annual leave entitlement
Harborough District Council’s vision is to work with communities in a vibrant, safe and prosperous district and to bring the best opportunities to all. We are looking for a highly motivated individual to join the Democratic Services team as a Democratic Services Administrative Assistant.
The administrative assistant will provide administrative support to the Democratic Services team, including:
- Arranging meetings
- Maintaining efficient and effective filing and data retrieval systems
- Acting as the first point of contact to those outside the team, providing excellent customer responsiveness to Officers, Councillors and external stakeholders
The successful candidate will need to be confident in using Microsoft suite, including Teams, Word and Outlook. They will also need experience of managing conflicting tasks to meet tight deadlines. As well as this, they must be able to effectively prioritise and organise their own workload. The ability to work both in a team and using initiative to work independently is also expected.
A good general education, including GCSE English Language and Maths (Grade C or above), equivalent or ability to demonstrate equivalent aptitude is expected. This role is politically restricted and therefore political neutrality is a requirement of the role. Working outside normal office hours will also be required, including attendance at evening meetings. It is expected that the successful candidate will be able to be in the office 3-4 days per week.
We understand that, for most, home life is a priority, so we are happy to consider this role on a job-share basis.
Desirable criteria from the person specification may be used for sifting purposes. If you think you would be a great fit for us, but don’t meet all the requirements of the role, please contact us as we’d love to discuss how we could be the next step in your career journey.
Democratic Services Administrative Assistant employer: Harborough District Council
Harborough District Council is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee well-being and professional development. With flexible working arrangements and a commitment to health and safety, employees can thrive in a role that not only contributes to the community but also fosters personal growth through training and advisory opportunities.
Contact Details:
Harborough District Council Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Democratic Services Administrative Assistant
✨Dive into Local Government Events
Get yourself to local government events and public sector job fairs. These are great for meeting recruiters and understanding what different organisations, like Harborough District Council, are looking for. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the sector!
✨Join Relevant Networks
Look for communities focused on public sector careers. Whether it’s local networking groups or online forums, connecting with professionals in the field can provide insider knowledge and opportunities that you won’t find on typical job boards.
✨Utilise Your University’s Resources
If you’re freshly graduated or still studying, make the most of your university's careers service. They often have exclusive partnerships with companies like Harborough District Council and can help you get your foot in the door for these full-time public sector roles.
✨Stay Updated with Government Initiatives
Keep your finger on the pulse regarding new government projects and policies. Understanding current initiatives can give you a leg up in interviews, showing that you are informed and genuinely interested in making a difference in the public sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Democratic Services Administrative Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for Harborough District Council and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Harborough District Council
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Harborough District Council, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration
The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for Harborough District Council.
