Overview
We're looking for an Engagement Officer for an innovative and exciting nature, heritage and culture research project in the North East. Working with vulnerable groups including children, you will enable high quality collaboration and research-based activity between a wide range of stakeholders. This proactive, external-facing role requires building strong relationships and connecting opportunities. The position requires a satisfactory enhanced DBS check and the ability to work flexible hours, including occasional evenings and weekends (TOIL available; no overtime payments).
What you'll be doing
- Community and Stakeholder Engagement – Work closely with Community Practitioners to plan and deliver conversations and consultations with established communities in Durham; coordinate communication and engagement with landowners, land occupiers, local authorities, community organisations and associations, academics and other corridor stakeholders; provide timely, targeted updates and ensure consistent, transparent communication to both internal and external stakeholders; act as one of the research project's key points of contact, offering clear information, advice and guidance about the project and associated funding opportunities.
- Cross‑Partner Collaboration – Support proactive collaboration between AHRC partners to ensure a shared, consistent approach to stakeholder engagement; contribute to information sharing and knowledge exchange across the wider GCNE team; embody and uphold AHRC Thrive Principles throughout all engagement activities.
- Flexible Fund Support – Support the development, delivery, and administration of the GCNE Flexible Fund (approx. eight research projects with a value of £15,000 each) held by Newcastle University; assist stakeholders in understanding and accessing the fund, offering guidance throughout the application and project using the programme's decision‑making framework; ensure all associated administration aligns with relevant financial and organisational policies.
- Governance, Compliance and Project Management – Ensure all activity complies with multi‑organisational procedures, including safeguarding, data handling, and financial controls; contribute to documentation, record‑keeping, and reporting across project activity; carry out any other duties appropriate to the role's level and responsibilities.
Qualifications
- Excellent communication and facilitation skills, with experience of public‑facing community engagement.
- Proven ability to work collaboratively with a wide range of diverse stakeholders (e.g., community groups, academics, landowners, local authorities).
- Experience working on landscape projects with land managers and/or relevant funding schemes.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a matrix team, building productive relationships with researchers and community stakeholders.
- Experience supporting the development and implementation of community co‑designed funding applications.
- A genuine interest in the communities of Durham City and its surroundings.
Benefits
- Substantial pension scheme of up to 10% of basic salary.
- Flexible working arrangements wherever possible.
- Employee assistance programme.
- Free parking at most project locations.
- Inclusive culture where diversity is valued.
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