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Rural Policy Research Officer – Ballykelly.

  • Ballykelly
  • Please see job description

Rural Policy Research Officer – Ballykelly

  • Ballykelly
  • Please see job description
  • Posted May 18, 2026
  • Temporary - Full time

We have a fantastic opportunity for you to join our client, based in Ballykelly as a full-time Rural Policy Research Officer

Our client is Northern Ireland’s Leading Public Sector Employer.

Administrator Pay Rate: £19.59 per hour

Start Date: As soon as possible

Location: Ballykelly however, working location is flexible with Rural Affairs staff headquartered at other locations such as Academy House, Ballymena.

Benefits working with NICS:

  • On the job training provided
  • Gain valuable skills and progress your career
  • Diverse and inclusive employer with active social mobility policies
  • Flexible & Hybrid working
  • Car parking available

Hours of Work: 

Monday to Friday 9am-5pm

Job Duties

  • Assisting in the implementation of the new rural policy proposals, particularly those relating to the outcome of the Understanding Rural Communities co-design working group which may include conducting a Rural Audit of Northern Ireland and supporting the development of a monitoring and evaluations framework & model.
  • Assisting with the identification of rural research requirements.
  • Assisting with the commissioning and management of research projects within AFBI and others relevant institutes.
  • Providing training and support relating to the Rural Data Hub.
  • Maintaining a rural research repository, drafting and sharing content and knowledge via internal newsletters/bulletins.
  • Presenting relevant research to allow officials to engage across NICS departments and champion the needs of rural communities.
  • Assisting in the preparation of  submissions, briefings and responses in respect of Ministerial, Executive and AERA Committee correspondence, Assembly Questions etc.
  • Undertaking line management responsibilities.
  • Assisting with the general administration and management of the branch including in relation to budget, finance and corporate returns as required.
The duties listed above are not exhaustive. However, they provide a good indication of the main duties of the post. The emphasis on particular duties may vary over time according to business needs and the post-holder may be required to carry out other duties consistent with the grade as allocated by management.

Essential Criteria: 

  • The post-holder is required to hold a degree and have a minimum of 12 months’ experience
  • Research & Analysis – Ability to analyse complex evidence in collaboration with other NICS departments and in consultation with experts which is evidence informed in respect of meeting rural need.
  • Report Writing – Ability to draft complex information to Minister, Executive, AERA Committee, Assembly and SMT providing concise and up-to-date information often within very tight timescales for consideration.

An Access NI will be required for this role

  • A criminal record will not necessarily be a bar to obtaining a position.
  • The UK Recruitment Co. Ltd has policies on the Recruitment of Ex-Offenders and the Secure Handling, Use, Storage, and Retention of Disclosure Information, copies of which can be made available upon request.

Please apply via link or send your CV to kerri.kyle@therecruitmentco.uk

Apply for this job.