At a Glance
- Tasks: Support exciting projects that enhance knowledge and skills in planning and renewable energy.
- Company: Join the Improvement Service, a forward-thinking organisation dedicated to community improvement.
- Benefits: Enjoy 41 days of annual leave, flexible working, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Hybrid working model with travel across Scotland; great career growth potential.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in Scotland's planning sector while working with a supportive team.
- Qualifications: Passion for project support and strong organisational skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Are you organised, creative and enjoy working on learning and support projects that help to share knowledge, best practice, upskill, and build capacity in Scotland? Perhaps you have an interest in the built environment, climate change and renewable energy?
The Improvement Service (IS) are recruiting a full-time Project Support Officer to provide programme and project support for the National Planning Improvement team (NPI). The National Planning Improvement team is responsible for monitoring the performance of planning authorities and providing advice to them (and others) on what steps might be taken to improve their performance through the National Planning Improvement Framework and supporting the delivery of the National Planning Hub.
The Project Support Officer will be an important part of a small and agile team delivering this exciting and ground-breaking work and support the delivery of the National Planning Hub (NPH).
Key Skills and Experience- Ability to provide project support for the delivery of training and support programmes to share knowledge and best practice, upskill, build capacity, and support changes in partner organisations.
- Ability to support communications relating to the National Planning Hub to ensure that its ambitions and work are understood across the planning sector through a range of channels including the NPH website, MS Teams, Knowledge Hub, social media, reports, blogs, and newsletters.
- Ability to organise, setup, facilitate/present and follow up on learning events (online and offline), workshops and meetings.
- Ability to organise and prioritise workload, multi-task, and work to deadlines.
We’re seeking someone who is passionate about using their project support skills across a wide variety of learning and support programmes in areas such as renewable energy (hydrogen, onshore wind, and battery energy storage), housing and local development plans, public service reform and emerging digital and data such areas as AI and Datacentres. You will be confident in organising, setting up, facilitating/presenting, and following up on learning events, workshops, and meetings.
We would welcome applications from candidates from a range of backgrounds who are interested in gaining new knowledge, skills and experience.
Why Join Us?This is a unique opportunity to join a small team driving improvement in planning authorities. You’ll work in a highly collaborative environment with supportive colleagues and meaningful partnerships. You’ll be part of a dynamic, forward-thinking organisation and enjoy a progressive, flexible working culture.
- A generous annual leave entitlement of 41 days per year.
- Flexible working arrangements.
- Opportunities for professional development.
- A supportive and inclusive work environment.
Location: West Lothian Council Civic Centre, Howden South Road, Livingston, West Lothian, EH54 6FF with some travel throughout Scotland as required. It is anticipated that the role will involve a hybrid model of office and home working. This flexible approach will be agreed between employee and line manager.
Duration: Until 31st March 2027, with possibility of extension.
Hours of contract: Standard working week is 36 hours Monday to Friday.
Advert closing date: 19 July 2026.
Interview Date: A competence based in-person interview will take place on Friday 31st July 2026 (shortlisted candidates will be advised by email a week in advance of the interview).
For more information about competency-based interviews, see our 'Guide to Competency-based Interviews'. Additionally, you may also find it beneficial to watch our Working at the Improvement Service Video and read our current Business Plan 2025-26.
BackgroundThe Improvement Service (IS) is a publicly funded company limited by guarantee, with a total annual budget in the region of £12 Million. We exist to support councils and their partners to improve the health, quality of life and opportunities of all Scottish people through community leadership, strong local governance and the delivery of high quality, efficient local services.
Working for the IS means joining a team of professionals, who work together to strive for continuous improvement in the public sector and ultimately, better outcomes for Scotland's communities.
Our company headquarters are based in West Lothian, located conveniently for commuters between Edinburgh and Glasgow. Pay is only one of the benefits of working for the IS, our terms and conditions are progressive and flexible and employees are rewarded with a generous annual leave entitlement of forty one days per year as well as a flexible working policy.
The IS is committed to promoting equality and diversity in all its activities to promote inclusive processes, practices and culture. The IS is a Disability Confidence Committed Employer. We are committed to interviewing anyone with a disability who meets the essential criteria.
Project Support Officer - IS00128 in Livingston employer: Improvement Service
The Improvement Service offers a unique opportunity to join a dynamic and forward-thinking team dedicated to enhancing planning authorities across Scotland. With a strong emphasis on collaboration, professional development, and a flexible working culture, employees enjoy generous benefits including 41 days of annual leave and a supportive environment that values diversity and inclusion. Located in West Lothian, the role provides a perfect balance of office and home working, making it an attractive choice for those passionate about making a meaningful impact in the public sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Project Support Officer - IS00128 in Livingston
✨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 Improvement Service, 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 Improvement Service 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 Project Support Officer - IS00128 in Livingston
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 Improvement Service 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 Improvement Service
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Improvement Service, 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 Improvement Service.
