Policy & Research Assistant (24 month FTC)

Honeycomb is delighted to partner with a prestigious membership organisation to recruit for a Policy & Research Assistant to join their busy organisation based in Belfast city centre. The role is 24-month FTC with the possibility of an addition 12-month extension.

The Role

You will contribute to the Policy and Communications Team, focusing on the Enabling Access to Justice program over the next three years. Your responsibilities will include analysing data and statistics, reviewing existing research evidence, collaborating with colleagues and relevant associations, and producing high-quality policy positions and submissions. Your work will be evidence-based, aimed at promoting access to justice for the citizens across Northern Ireland

Your Package/Benefits

• Competitive base salary available on request
• 5 hours per week, Monday to Friday made up of 7.5 hours per day not including a 1 hour lunchbreak
• 22 days per annum (pro rata) and a generous 13 statutory/privilege days are recognised annually.
• 10% non-contributory pension scheme
• private healthcare after a 6-month probationary period
• Excellent opportunity to join a successful well-established organisation

The Role

• Conduct desk-based qualitative and quantitative research, along with other necessary evidence gathering, to develop policy positions on enabling access to justice.
• Assist in analysing and interpreting quantitative and qualitative data to identify key policy issues and trends, evaluating the impact of existing policies.
• Help prepare concise, accurate, and timely written briefings for senior colleagues on relevant policy positions regarding access to justice.
• Contribute to the initial drafting of consultation responses and calls for evidence, ensuring timely reviews, adherence to deadlines, and attention to detail.
• Collaborate with external stakeholders and internal colleagues to enhance the development of effective policy positions on enabling access to justice.
• Complete administrative tasks for the Policy and Communications Team, including updating activity logs, stakeholder lists, and consultation logs.
• Attend internal and external events and meetings on behalf of the Policy and Communications Team related to access to justice, contributing appropriately and providing reports.
• Stay informed on relevant legal and policy developments in this jurisdiction and neighbouring areas, briefing the Policy and Communications Team as needed.
• Undertake any necessary training courses as identified by the organisation to effectively fulfil the role.
• Adhere to the Information Security Management systems established by the Executive Council.
• Recognise that the duties and responsibilities outlined in this job description are indicative and may change over time, with the expectation to take on additional relevant tasks.

Essential Criteria

• Degree-level education with a 2:1 or higher in a relevant field (e.g., law, politics, social sciences) or equivalent experience in the last three years.
• Understanding of Northern Ireland's government and policy-making.
• Knowledge of research methods and statistical techniques.
• Interest in the legal and justice sectors.
• Strong written and oral communication skills.
• Attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to organise and manage workload effectively.
• Capability to work under guidance and take initiative.
• Quick at absorbing information and producing responses.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
• Willingness to support access to justice initiatives.
• Respect for confidentiality.
• At least six months of experience in a policy or research role or equivalent academic experience.
• Experience using data to inform decisions.
• Familiarity with databases and research materials.
• Experience preparing briefing papers.
• Proficiency in Excel, PowerPoint, MS Office, and survey software.
• Ability to stay focused on long-term projects.

Desirable:

• Training in research methods or statistical techniques.
• Experience providing briefings to senior managers.
• Experience collaborating in policy development.
• Knowledge of public policy issues in the legal and justice sectors.
• Experience organising events for stakeholders.

To speak in absolute confidence about this opportunity please send an up-to-date CV via the link provided or contact Caoimhe at Honeycomb on

If you have a disability which means you require assistance at any stage of the recruitment process, please contact us directly to discuss.

Honeycomb is committed to providing equality of opportunity to all.

Even if this position is not right for you, we may have others that are. Please visit Honeycomb to view a wide selection of our current jobs.