At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead research on agricultural policy and its impact on climate and rural communities.
- Company: Join a dynamic team focused on sustainable agriculture and food analysis.
- Benefits: Permanent position with opportunities for professional growth and development.
- Other info: Engage in collaborative projects with diverse teams and contribute to impactful policies.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in agricultural reform and support thriving rural communities.
- Qualifications: Experience in social research and strong analytical skills required.
The predicted salary is between 34650 - 42350 £ per year.
This opportunity is only open to applicants who are currently 'Priority Movers'. Applications from individuals not currently on the Priority Mover list will be rejected and not considered.
This post is part of the social-research branch of Agricultural, Food and Drink Analysis Unit in RESAS. It is an exciting role working on research, monitoring and evaluation for agricultural policy and how it delivers against climate and nature outcomes whilst delivering high quality food and supports thriving rural communities through this period of transition. You will work closely with analysts from across the other professions to support the Agricultural Reform Programme, with specific focus on developing the approach for monitoring and evaluation of the interventions being delivered through the programme.
This role will also provide social research support for agricultural policy, and for the food and drink analysis team, for example on priority areas like fair food price capping. You will work closely with policy colleagues, other analytical professions, science advisors, and programme management and delivery colleagues.
Responsibilities
- Agricultural Reform Programme Implementation-Level Monitoring and Evaluation:
- Development and delivery of approach for “implementation level” monitoring and evaluation – specifically tiers and interventions (including schemes, CPD, requirements such as Whole Farm Plan).
- Coordination and support for outcome, theory of change and M&E development at implementation level.
- Supporting relationship-building and alignment between Monitoring and Evaluation activity within RESAS and Benefits Management within ARP PMO.
- Supporting project teams and benefits realisation manager to identify indicators for process/impact monitoring and benefits tracking (where they overlap).
- Agreeing evaluation prioritisation and approach.
- Reporting to/making recommendations to Delivery Board on evaluation prioritisation and implementing board agreement.
- Contract management of externally commissioned research projects.
- As required, consultation support for tiers and interventions.
- Social research support to ARP policy development:
- Supporting planning and delivery of the Lived Experience Agricultural Panel (LEAP).
- Social research support for food and drink analysis:
- Social research support for food and drink analysis including emerging priorities on Fair Food Price Cap.
Qualifications
This role is a permanent level transfer position.
How to Apply
Applications for this position will only be accepted from substantive B3 employees. Please submit a statement outlining your suitability for the role, relevant skills and experience, and what you would bring to the team (maximum 500 words).
Selection Process
All candidates will be invited to an informal discussion with the Hiring Manager. Informal discussion dates tbc.
Further Information
If you have specific questions about the role, please contact catherine.henry@gov.scot. Read our Candidate Guide for further information on our recruitment and application processes.
Agriculture Food and Drink Analysis - Senior Research Officer - B3 in Edinburgh employer: Scottish Government
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We think this is how you could land Agriculture Food and Drink Analysis - Senior Research Officer - B3 in Edinburgh
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We think you need these skills to ace Agriculture Food and Drink Analysis - Senior Research Officer - B3 in Edinburgh
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Experience:When applying for a role in agriculture, it's crucial to highlight any hands-on experience you have in farming, crop management, or sustainable practices. We want to see how your background aligns with the role you're after, so be specific about the responsibilities you've had and any tools or techniques you've used.
Certifications Matter:In agriculture, relevant certifications can really give your application a boost. If you have any qualifications related to agricultural practices, pest management, or environmental regulations, make sure to mention them! They're great indicators of your commitment and expertise in the field.
Tailor Your CV to the Agriculture Sector:Your CV should reflect your passion for agriculture. Structure it to emphasise your field experience and any relevant projects you've been involved in. Don't forget to highlight your soft skills, like teamwork and communication, which are essential in this sector.
Passion is Key in Your Cover Letter:Since this is a full-time position, we want to feel your enthusiasm for agriculture in your cover letter. Share why you're drawn to this industry and mention any long-term goals you have that align with what Scottish Government does. This can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Scottish Government
✨Get Familiar with Agricultural Technologies
Make sure you're up to speed with the latest agricultural technologies and tools that are commonly used in the field. Whether it’s precision farming tools or crop management software, being able to discuss these effectively during your interview with Scottish Government will show that you're technically savvy and ready to contribute from day one.
✨Showcase Your Practical Experience
Since agriculture is a hands-on industry, be prepared to share any practical experiences you've had. This could be through internships, volunteer work, or even personal projects. Discussing specific challenges you faced and how you overcame them can really impress the interviewers, especially in a full-time role at Scottish Government.
✨Understand the Sustainable Practices
Sustainability is a hot topic in agriculture right now, so it's important to understand current practices and regulations in the industry. Familiarise yourself with concepts like crop rotation, organic farming, and environmental impact. Having informed opinions on these topics can set you apart from other candidates during your interview.
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Expect to tackle a few scenario-based questions that mimic real-life challenges in agriculture. For instance, you might be asked how you would handle a pest infestation or manage resources during a drought. Practising these scenarios will help you respond confidently and showcase your problem-solving skills during the interview with Scottish Government.
