At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive policy change and advocate for rural communities through research and engagement.
- Company: Join Rural Community Network NI, a leader in empowering rural voices.
- Benefits: Competitive salary with annual increments and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Full-time role with a focus on impactful community-led initiatives.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in rural communities and influence policy development.
- Qualifications: Experience in policy advocacy, research skills, and community engagement.
The predicted salary is between 37035 - 40000 € per year.
RCN wishes to recruit for the following post: Policy and Research Officer
Salary: starting at NJC Point 27 (£37,035 per annum) with incremental yearly increases up to NJC Point 30.
About Rural Community Network Northern Ireland: RCN NI is a regional, membership-based organisation dedicated to fostering positive change within rural communities. Our 2025–2030 Strategic Plan prioritises empowering rural voices, strengthening community development, and promoting equitable, peaceful rural communities.
About the Role: Reporting to the Policy Manager, the Policy and Research Officer will play a pivotal role in enhancing RCN’s policy influence, community advocacy, and research capability. You will ensure rural communities effectively contribute to policy development, consultations, and evidence-based advocacy initiatives.
Key Responsibilities:
- Policy Development and Advocacy: Support policy advocacy efforts, draft consultation responses and policy briefings, and represent RCN in key strategic forums.
- Community-Led Research and Evidence Building: Undertake participatory and desk-based research, translating community experiences into actionable policy recommendations.
- Stakeholder Engagement and Strategic Influence: Facilitate forums connecting rural communities with policymakers, service providers, and other stakeholders.
- Organisational Learning and Capacity Building: Contribute to internal learning processes, support community groups in policy engagement, and assist in strategic planning and evaluations.
Contract Type: Full-time, subject to funding. Applications must be received by 12pm on Monday 18th August 2025.
Policy and Research Officer employer: Rural Community Network
Rural Community Network Northern Ireland (RCN NI) is an exceptional employer dedicated to empowering rural communities and fostering positive change. With a strong commitment to employee development, RCN offers a collaborative work culture that values innovation and community engagement, providing opportunities for professional growth and meaningful contributions to policy advocacy. Located in the heart of Northern Ireland, employees benefit from a supportive environment that prioritises work-life balance and the chance to make a real impact in rural areas.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Policy and Research Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the rural community sector and attend relevant events. Building connections can open doors and give you insights into the role that aren’t in the job description.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching RCN’s recent projects and initiatives. Show us you’re genuinely interested in our mission and how you can contribute to empowering rural voices.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your skills in policy development and community engagement align with our goals. We want to see your passion for making a difference in rural communities.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our team at RCN.
We think you need these skills to ace Policy and Research Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Stuff:Before you start writing, make sure you understand the role and the organisation. Dive into RCN's mission and values, and think about how your skills align with their goals. This will help you tailor your application to show why you're the perfect fit!
Be Clear and Concise:When drafting your application, keep it straightforward. Use clear language and avoid jargon. We want to see your passion and expertise shine through without getting lost in complicated phrases. Remember, less is often more!
Showcase Relevant Experience:Highlight your experience that directly relates to policy development, community engagement, or research. Use specific examples to demonstrate how you've made an impact in similar roles. This is your chance to show us what you can bring to the table!
Apply Through Our Website:Make sure to submit your application through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss any important updates. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Rural Community Network
✨Know Your Policy Stuff
Make sure you brush up on current policies affecting rural communities. Familiarise yourself with RCN's strategic plan and be ready to discuss how your skills can enhance their advocacy efforts.
✨Showcase Your Research Skills
Prepare examples of past research projects you've worked on, especially those that involved community engagement. Be ready to explain how you translated findings into actionable recommendations.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Think about how you would facilitate connections between rural communities and policymakers. Have a few ideas in mind about how to improve stakeholder engagement and be prepared to share them.
✨Demonstrate Your Passion for Community Development
RCN is all about empowering rural voices, so show your enthusiasm for community-led initiatives. Share personal experiences or projects that highlight your commitment to making a positive impact in rural areas.
