At a Glance
- Tasks: Engage with communities, coordinate research projects, and foster relationships for impactful outcomes.
- Company: Queen's University Belfast, committed to community collaboration and research excellence.
- Benefits: Flexible working hours, professional development opportunities, and a chance to make a real difference.
- Other info: Dynamic role with significant community interaction and growth potential.
- Why this job: Be part of a meaningful mission to improve lives in local communities through research.
- Qualifications: Relevant degree or substantial experience in community engagement and programme delivery.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 € per year.
This post will be based in Queen's Communities and Place (QCAP), a multidisciplinary engaged research unit that works with communities across Belfast. QCAP was established in 2021 as a direct expression of Queen's University Belfast's civic mission, recognising the responsibility to work in meaningful, authentic partnership with local communities. It was founded on the belief that genuine, co-produced collaboration rooted in the real needs of local people could generate better outcomes for communities, better research, and a more equitable relationship between the University and surrounding communities.
We are a team of over 20 researchers and support staff working on diverse research projects gathering an evidence base along three main interlinking disciplines: Community Health and Wellbeing, Education, Skills and Inclusive Innovation, and the Social Economy and Community Wealth Building. This post will assist in the development and implementation of a two-year research study focused on working-class communities in inner South Belfast. The post holder will lead on developing relationships and creating engagement opportunities with communities, providing senior administrative and coordination support, working with Research Fellows, Programme Manager, and QCAP Director specifically in the delivery of this place-based research study.
The post holder will be the lead point of contact and coordination, supporting a complex, community-facing research study adhering to strict timelines and quality processes. They will play a vital role in maintaining strong relationships with community anchor organisations, residents, and statutory partners across working-class communities in inner South Belfast. Their knowledge of the area and its communities will be central to the effective delivery of the programme. This role will be based on Queen's main campus but will require significant in-person engagement with communities, necessitating flexibility around location and hours of work as engagements will be dictated by community need.
About the person:
The successful candidate must have, and your application should clearly demonstrate that you meet the following criteria:
- A relevant degree, HND or NVQ level 4 qualification plus 2 years relevant experience OR relevant academic/vocational qualifications (e.g. A Levels, NVQ level 3 or equivalent) with 4 years relevant experience OR substantial relevant professional experience.
- Significant recent experience (minimum of 4 years') in relevant external relations role(s) including:
- Engaging with community groups, understanding their needs, and fostering relationships built on trust and mutual respect.
- Working collaboratively to organise, deliver, and evaluate programmes effectively, including managing timelines and resources.
- Experience of identifying challenges and developing creative solutions to address them.
- Experience of programme delivery and evaluation.
- Experience delivering presentations to a range of audiences.
- Experience of writing reports.
- Experience managing social media accounts and developing promotional materials e.g. newsletters.
To be successful at shortlisting stage, please ensure you clearly evidence in your application how you meet the essential and, where applicable, desirable criteria listed in the Candidate Information document on our website.
Engagement Coordinator in Belfast employer: Queens University
Queen's University Belfast is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a collaborative and inclusive work culture that prioritises community engagement and research impact. As part of the QCAP team, you will have the opportunity to contribute to meaningful projects that directly benefit local communities in Belfast, while also enjoying professional development opportunities and a supportive environment that values your input and expertise.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Engagement Coordinator in Belfast
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the community and industry. Attend local events, workshops, or even casual meet-ups. The more faces you know, the better your chances of landing that Engagement Coordinator role.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers or community partners, highlight your experience in engaging with community groups. Share specific examples of how you've built trust and delivered successful programmes.
✨Tip Number 3
Be flexible and adaptable! This role requires a lot of in-person engagement, so be ready to adjust your schedule to meet community needs. Show that you're willing to go the extra mile to make those connections happen.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We want to see your application, so make sure you submit it directly on our platform. It’s the best way for us to keep track of your application and ensure you’re considered for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Engagement Coordinator in Belfast
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Us Your Passion:When you're writing your application, let your enthusiasm for community engagement shine through. We want to see how much you care about working with local communities and making a difference in their lives.
Be Specific About Your Experience:Make sure to highlight your relevant experience clearly. Use examples that demonstrate your ability to engage with community groups and manage projects effectively. We love seeing real-life stories that showcase your skills!
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application! Tailor it to the Engagement Coordinator role by addressing the specific criteria mentioned in the job description. Show us how your background aligns with what we’re looking for.
Check Your Details:Before hitting send, double-check your application for any typos or errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is super important for this role. And remember, apply through our website for the best chance!
How to prepare for a job interview at Queens University
✨Know Your Community
Before the interview, dive deep into the communities you'll be working with. Understand their needs, challenges, and strengths. This knowledge will not only impress your interviewers but also show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be ready to discuss your relevant experience in engaging with community groups. Prepare specific examples of how you've built trust and fostered relationships. Highlight any programmes you've organised or evaluated, as this will demonstrate your capability in managing timelines and resources.
✨Prepare for Presentations
Since you'll need to deliver presentations to various audiences, practice explaining your past projects clearly and confidently. Use storytelling techniques to make your experiences relatable and engaging, which will help you stand out during the interview.
✨Bring Your Creativity
Think about challenges you've faced in previous roles and how you creatively solved them. Be prepared to share these examples, as they will showcase your problem-solving skills and ability to think outside the box, which is crucial for this role.
