At a Glance
- Tasks: Support human rights law reviews and coordinate team workstreams.
- Company: Join the Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission, a key player in promoting human rights.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary and the chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Applications from underrepresented groups are especially encouraged.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team influencing human rights policy and practice.
- Qualifications: Ideal for those with a passion for human rights and relevant experience.
The predicted salary is between 47304 - 49515 € per year.
Policy and Research Officer (Deputy Principal) (Permanent)
The Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission is a statutory body with a wide range of functions relating to the promotion and protection of human rights.
Applications are invited for the following full-time post:
Policy and Research Officer (Deputy Principal) (Permanent)
There are two posts available and the grade of these posts is currently equivalent to Northern Ireland Civil Service Grade Deputy Principal, with a current pay band of £47,304 - £49,515 per year (under review).
The post-holder will contribute to the Commission’s work in reviewing the adequacy and effectiveness of law and practice relating to the protection of human rights in Northern Ireland. Initially, at least one post is available within each of the policy teams (‘research, investigations and advice to government’ and ‘Human Rights after EU Withdrawal’) but a list of appointable candidates will be retained for one year in case of further opportunities arising. The two policy teams work closely with each other, and it is expected that team members will work across that boundary as required and may rotate between teams over time.
The Policy and Research Officer (Deputy Principal) roles support the Senior Policy and Research Officer and Director of each team in providing advice on human rights compliance in Northern Ireland to a variety of stakeholders, including Northern Ireland Executive and Assembly, Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Westminster Parliament, public authorities, Council of Europe monitoring bodies, United Nations treaty bodies and civil society. In addition, the post-holder will coordinate one or more workstreams within the team and may be required to line manage staff or volunteers.
The post-holder will also support the Senior Policy and Research Officer and Director in other areas, including delivering human rights training and conducting statutory investigations.
For further information and to submit your application, click APPLY.
The closing date for receipt of applications is 4.00pm on Wednesday 17 September 2025.
The Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission is an equal opportunities employer and considers applications strictly on the basis of merit. Disabled people who meet the essential criteria for the post will be interviewed. The Commission wishes to particularly encourage applications from men who are currently underrepresented in the organisation.
Policy and Research Officer (Deputy Principal) (Permanent) in Belfast employer: Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission
The Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission is an exceptional employer, dedicated to promoting and protecting human rights in a collaborative and inclusive work environment. With a strong focus on employee development, the Commission offers opportunities for growth through diverse policy teams and engaging projects that directly impact society. Located in Northern Ireland, employees benefit from a supportive culture that values equality and encourages contributions from all backgrounds, making it a meaningful place to advance your career in human rights.
Contact Detail:
Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Policy and Research Officer (Deputy Principal) (Permanent) in Belfast
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the current human rights issues in Northern Ireland. Understanding the local context and recent developments will help you engage in meaningful discussions during interviews and demonstrate your commitment to the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the field of human rights and policy-making. Attend relevant events or webinars to connect with individuals who work at the Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission or similar organisations, as they can provide valuable insights and potentially refer you.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience in managing projects or workstreams. Since the role involves coordinating work and possibly line managing staff, be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully led teams or initiatives in the past.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on the latest policies and legislation affecting human rights in Northern Ireland, especially in relation to EU withdrawal. This knowledge will not only enhance your application but also equip you for informed discussions during the interview process.
We think you need these skills to ace Policy and Research Officer (Deputy Principal) (Permanent) in Belfast
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role:Thoroughly read the job description for the Policy and Research Officer position. Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities, required skills, and the specific teams you may be working with.
Tailor Your CV:Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience in human rights, policy analysis, and research. Emphasise any previous roles that involved advising stakeholders or conducting investigations.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Write a cover letter that clearly outlines your motivation for applying and how your skills align with the role. Mention your understanding of human rights issues in Northern Ireland and your ability to work across different policy teams.
Proofread Your Application:Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials. Check for spelling and grammatical errors, and ensure that all information is clear and concise. A polished application reflects your attention to detail.
How to prepare for a job interview at Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission
✨Understand the Role and Responsibilities
Make sure you thoroughly read the job description and understand the key responsibilities of the Policy and Research Officer role. Familiarise yourself with the functions of the Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission and how your skills can contribute to their mission.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities and how you handle real-world situations related to human rights. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you successfully navigated challenges or contributed to policy development.
✨Showcase Your Research Skills
As a Policy and Research Officer, strong research skills are crucial. Be ready to discuss your research methodologies, any relevant projects you've worked on, and how you can apply these skills to support the Commission's work in human rights compliance.
✨Demonstrate Team Collaboration
Since the role involves working across different policy teams, highlight your experience in collaborative environments. Share examples of how you've effectively worked with diverse stakeholders and contributed to team success in previous roles.
