At a Glance
- Tasks: Support rehabilitation through trauma-informed psychological interventions in various locations.
- Company: Join the Probation Board for Northern Ireland, a key player in the criminal justice system.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, pension scheme, hybrid working, and personal development opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible roles available across Northern Ireland with excellent career growth potential.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while promoting positive relationships and community safety.
- Qualifications: Relevant qualifications in psychology and a passion for supporting others.
The predicted salary is between 31022 - 36363 £ per year.
We are recruiting for suitably qualified Psychology Assistants to join the Promoting Positive Relationships Project (PPRP) Team, in various locations, within the Probation Board for Northern Ireland. These roles contribute to psychologically informed and trauma-responsive interventions that support rehabilitation and positive relationships.
PBNI is a central part of the criminal justice system in Northern Ireland and works with a range of statutory partners and voluntary and community groups to reduce reoffending. Our work is grounded in the values of respect, integrity, openness, accountability, and compassion. We recognise people’s capacity to change and have victims at the heart of everything we do and are committed to trauma-informed and psychologically informed practice, recognising the impact of trauma on individuals, families, communities and staff.
We value the commitment and contributions of our employees and are committed to providing a supportive, inclusive and transparent working environment. Our comprehensive reward and benefits package reflect this commitment and includes:
- Membership of the NILGOSC pension scheme
- Learning and development opportunities to support personal growth and professional accountability
- Wellbeing events and a range of support mechanisms
- Hybrid working arrangements, where appropriate
To learn more about our work, our values and how we support rehabilitation and community safety, please visit the “What We Do” section of our website.
For further information and to apply, please visit the PBNI Recruitment website. If you have any queries, you can contact us.
We currently have vacancies throughout Northern Ireland, including in Prisons, and we hope to retain a reserve list for any future permanent, temporary, full-time and part-time positions within the following 12-month period. Applications must be submitted online by no later than 4.00pm on Friday 7 August 2026. Applications received after this time cannot be considered.
Psychology Assistants employer: PBNI
The Probation Board for Northern Ireland is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment that prioritises employee wellbeing and professional development. With a strong commitment to trauma-informed practices and community rehabilitation, employees are empowered to make a meaningful impact while enjoying benefits such as hybrid working arrangements and comprehensive learning opportunities. Join us in our mission to promote positive relationships and contribute to the criminal justice system in Northern Ireland.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Psychology Assistants
✨Get Involved in Local Psychological Communities
Join local psychology associations or groups where professionals gather. Whether it’s workshops, conferences, or social events, connecting with others in the field can lead to job opportunities and insider info on unadvertised openings.
✨Leverage University Career Services
If you’re a recent graduate, don’t forget to tap into your university’s career services. They often have exclusive partnerships with organisations looking for fresh talents, plus access to internships that could lead to full-time roles.
✨Showcase Your Skills Online
Create a blog or a LinkedIn page where you share insights about psychology theories or current trends. This not only showcases your knowledge but can help you connect with like-minded professionals and potential employers.
✨Apply Directly Through Our Website
When you find a role like Psychology Assistants at PBNI, make your application stand out by applying directly through our website. This gives you a better chance to be seen by hiring managers. Plus, tailor your application to highlight your passion for psychology and relevant experiences!
We think you need these skills to ace Psychology Assistants
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV with Relevant Experience:In psychology, it’s crucial to highlight your relevant experience, such as internships, research projects, or any volunteer work in mental health settings. Make sure to include specific roles and responsibilities, demonstrating how you've applied theoretical knowledge in real-world situations—this is what gets us excited!
Show Off Your Academic Achievements:Given the nature of psychology, we want to see your academic journey laid out clearly. Include your degree(s), grades, and any specialised courses or certifications that set you apart. If you've got published papers or presentations at conferences, be sure to mention them—it shows your commitment to the field!
Personal Statement: Make It Count:Your personal statement is your chance to shine! Share insights about why you’re passionate about psychology and how this role at PBNI connects with your career goals. Be honest about your motivations and what you hope to learn—this is key for a full-time position and helps us gauge your fit in our team!
Focus on Soft Skills in Your Application:Psychology is as much about people as it is about theories. Highlight your soft skills such as communication, empathy, and teamwork in your application. These traits are essential in our field and will help us see how you connect with others, so don't hold back in showcasing them!
How to prepare for a job interview at PBNI
✨Brush Up on Key Psychological Theories
Before stepping into the interview with PBNI, revisit key psychological theories that are relevant to the role, like cognitive behavioural therapy or humanistic psychology. Expect to discuss these during your interview, as they want to see how you apply theory to practice.
✨Bring Real-Life Case Studies
Prepare a couple of case studies or anecdotes that demonstrate your practical experience in psychology. Whether it’s handling a difficult client or designing a psychological assessment, these stories will highlight your skills and help you stand out in your full-time interview.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Ethical Guidelines
Get comfy with the ethical guidelines set by the British Psychological Society. Be ready to chat about how you ensure ethical practice in your work, as this is crucial in the psychology field, and PBNI will be keen to know you’ve got integrity.
✨Showcase Your Continuous Learning
Since you're going for a full-time gig, it’s essential to demonstrate your commitment to ongoing professional development. Bring up any workshops, courses, or readings you’ve engaged in recently. This shows PBNI that you’re not just there for a job, but genuinely passionate about the field.
