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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a dynamic team to drive innovation and contribute to meaningful local government projects.
- Company: Suffolk Graduate Partnership, collaborating with multiple councils for community impact.
- Benefits: Starting salary of £26,000, rising to £27,500, plus hybrid working and career development.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of local government transformation and make a real difference in communities.
- Qualifications: Must have a 2:2 degree and be eligible to work in the UK.
- Other info: Fixed-term role with excellent mentorship and growth opportunities until August 2028.
The predicted salary is between 22000 - 26000 £ per year.
We are big believers in potential, possibility and the power of different ideas. We’re always searching for ways to encourage, respect and enable everyone to be the best they can be. We aim to include and be represented by all communities we serve and to achieve this, we encourage applications from graduates of all backgrounds.
Job Details
- Suffolk Graduate Partnership (Suffolk County Council, East Suffolk Council, West Suffolk Council and Babergh/Mid Suffolk District Council)
- Address: Various locations across Suffolk - Hybrid working
- Salary: £26,000 per annum in the first year (rising to £27,500 per annum in the second year on successfully meeting performance related criteria)
- Hours: 37 hours per week
- Contract: Fixed term to August 2028, 7 positions available
The Suffolk Graduate Partnership is a collaboration between Suffolk County Council, East Suffolk Council, West Suffolk Council, and Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils. This two‑year graduate development programme offers a unique opportunity to gain hands‑on experience in local government, to contribute to meaningful projects, and build a career that makes a real difference to communities across Suffolk.
As Suffolk prepares for Local Government Reorganisation (LGR), this is an exciting time to join the sector. Graduates will be part of a system undergoing transformation, with opportunities to shape how services are delivered and how councils work together. You’ll be at the heart of change, gaining insight into strategic priorities and future governance models.
Your role
- have excellent communication and collaboration skills
- be able to organise your work successfully to deliver what’s expected
- be excited to help drive innovation, offer new ideas, and think up fresh ways of tackling problems.
Bringing together a range of local authorities, the Suffolk Public Sector Graduate Scheme is aimed at ambitious graduates willing to work hard and contribute to the important work we deliver.
To join us you will need
- at least a 2:2 degree in any subject
- to have completed your degree no more than 2 years before summer 2026
- to be eligible to work in the UK.
Placement Structure
- Two‑year fixed placement within one host organisation (no rotation).
- Supported by a dedicated line manager and senior mentor.
- Opportunities to shadow teams across county and district levels.
- Contribute to a collaborative graduate project with peers.
This structure ensures continuity and depth of experience, especially important as Suffolk navigates LGR. There’s never been a more exciting and challenging time to be part of the public sector.
How to apply
- Step 1 - Read the Job and Person Profile (JPP).
- Step 2 - Click ‘Apply Now’ to start your online application.
- Step 3 - Upload a supporting statement answering the following questions below (no more than 300 words per question). Use the Supporting Statement template.
- Step 4 - Upload a CV (without name and personal details).
If you are successful in the first shortlisting, you will be invited to submit a video answering further questions. More details will be sent to you. Please note: Without a supporting statement and CV, your interest will not be progressed. Any supporting documents must be in either PDF or MS Word format.
We value authentic applications that showcase your genuine skills and experiences. Applications suspected of being generated by AI may be rejected. We encourage you to present your own work and ideas throughout the application process.
If you require any reasonable adjustments to the application process before the next selection stage, please contact our Recruitment Team. If you are invited to the next stage of selection, you will have another opportunity to request adjustments for the next stages of the process.
Travel requirements
We encourage technology for communication. Sometimes you may need to travel. If you have a disability, talk to the contact below. They can help you with reasonable adjustments for this role.
Closing date: 11:30 pm, 28 February 2026.
Selection day: 3 June 2026 at Endeavour House, Ipswich IP1 2BX. You must be available for this to be considered for the role.
This authority is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) checks or police vetting will be required for relevant posts.
Graduate Project Officer in England employer: Suffolk Jobs Direct
Contact Detail:
Suffolk Jobs Direct Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Graduate Project Officer in England
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the organisation! Research Suffolk County Council and its partners. Understanding their values and current projects will help you tailor your approach and show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or past graduates from the programme on LinkedIn. They can provide insider tips and might even give you a heads-up about what to expect during the selection process.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the video interview! Think about how you can showcase your communication skills and innovative ideas. Practise answering common questions and make sure you’re comfortable speaking about your experiences and aspirations.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the Suffolk Graduate Partnership and ready to contribute to local government.
We think you need these skills to ace Graduate Project Officer in England
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job and Person Profile: Before diving into your application, take a moment to really understand the Job and Person Profile (JPP). This will help you tailor your responses and show us that you’re genuinely interested in the role.
Craft Your Supporting Statement: When writing your supporting statement, be sure to answer the questions thoughtfully. Use specific examples from your experiences to illustrate your points, and keep it within the 300-word limit for each question. We want to see your passion for local government!
Show Off Your Skills in Your CV: Your CV is your chance to shine! Make sure it highlights your relevant skills and experiences without including your name or personal details. Keep it clear and concise, and remember to save it as a PDF or MS Word document.
Be Authentic: We value genuine applications, so let your personality come through in your writing. Avoid using AI-generated content, and instead, share your own ideas and experiences. This is your opportunity to stand out, so make it count!
How to prepare for a job interview at Suffolk Jobs Direct
✨Know Your Why
Before the interview, take some time to reflect on why you're interested in local government and the Suffolk Graduate Partnership. Be ready to articulate your passion for making a difference in communities and how this role aligns with your career goals.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Highlight your communication and collaboration skills during the interview. Prepare specific examples of how you've successfully organised work or tackled problems creatively in the past. This will demonstrate your ability to contribute effectively to the team.
✨Research the Changes
Familiarise yourself with Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) and its implications. Being knowledgeable about current changes in the public sector will show your enthusiasm and readiness to engage with the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few insightful questions ready to ask. This could be about the future direction of the Suffolk Graduate Partnership or how the councils plan to implement innovative ideas. It shows you're genuinely interested and engaged.
