Research Officer (Health Determinants Research Collaboration Surrey)

Job Introduction We are committed to the development of our workforce. This position is only available to applicants who already work for Surrey County Council. We thank you for your interest in our roles and would encourage you to review our vacancies which are open to all. This role has a starting salary of £42,958 per annum, based on a 36 hour working week. This is a fixed term full-time contract/ secondment opportunity up to 31st December 2029. For internal candidates interested in applying for a Secondment opportunity, please discuss with your Line Manager before submitting your application. We have a great opportunity to join our Health Determinants Research Collaboration team (HDRC Surrey) team as a Research Officer. HDRC Surrey is all about making Surrey a healthier place to live, by strengthening how local government generates and uses research to shape decisions that truly reflect the needs of the community. We support hybrid working with the right balance. We come together in person for 2 days per week on average (40% of the working week) and support working from home the rest of the time. Our Offer to You 26 days’ holiday, rising to 28 days after 2 years' service and 31 days after 5 years’ service Option to buy up to 10 days of additional annual leave A generous local government salary related pension Up to 5 days of carer’s leave and 2 paid volunteering days per year Paternity, adoption and dependents leave An Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) to support health and wellbeing Learning and development hub where you can access a wealth of resources Wellbeing and lifestyle discounts including gym, travel, and shopping A chance to make a real difference to the lives of our residents About the Role As a Research Officer within HDRC Surrey, you will support the design and delivery of research projects aligned to the organisation’s priorities, contributing to work that helps improve health outcomes and reduce inequalities across Surrey. The role involves undertaking a range of research activities, including literature reviews, data collection and analysis, and producing high-quality outputs such as reports, briefings and presentations. You will work closely with colleagues and partners to translate research findings into accessible, practical outputs that inform decision-making, while also supporting public involvement in research activity where appropriate. While the role does not have direct line management responsibility, you may lead specific elements of project work and coordinate contributions from colleagues and partners. Over the next 12–18 months, you will contribute to the delivery of key HDRC Surrey research projects, support the development of research methods and project plans, provide robust analysis to guide strategic decisions, and help disseminate research findings through a range of communication channels. This role offers a unique opportunity to embed research and evidence use across the council, ensuring that services and policies are shaped by high-quality evidence and delivering meaningful benefits for local communities, particularly those experiencing the greatest inequalities. Shortlisting Criteria In order to be considered for shortlisting, your application will clearly evidence the following skills and align with our behaviours : Experience of qualitative and/or quantitative research, evaluation and analysis. Ability to communicate complex information and research findings clearly to a range of audiences. Experience of reviewing, synthesising and applying research evidence to support decision-making and service improvement. Strong organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects, priorities and deadlines. Ability to build effective working relationships with a wide range of stakeholders, including communities and partner organisations. A proactive and collaborative approach, with a commitment to continuous improvement and evidence-led practice. Commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion, ensuring research is accessible, representative and meaningful for diverse communities. As part of your application you will be asked to upload your CV and answer the following application questions: What has motivated you to apply for this position? Please provide examples of your experience supporting or delivering research or evaluation projects. What methods did you use and what was your role? Tell us about a time where you analysed data or evidence to inform a decision or improve a service. What was your approach and what impact did it have? How would you approach supporting the development and delivery of research across HDRC Surrey, including working with partners and ensuring findings are accessible to different audiences? Before submitting your application, we recommend you read the job description & Our Life at Surrey handbook to get an insight into working at Surrey. Contact Us Please contact us for any questions relating to role requirements, flexible working requests, transferable skills or barriers to employment. For an informal discussion please contact Ella Turner by e-mail or on MS Teams. The job advert closes at 23:59 on 26th July 2026 with interviews planned to follow week commencing 03/08/2026. Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) Surrey County Council is undergoing Local Government Reorganisation, moving from a two-tier system to two new unitary councils in April 2027. If you are employed by Surrey on 1st April 2027, your role will transfer with current terms and conditions to one of the new organisations, supporting local devolution and greater powers for our communities. Join our dynamic team and shape the future of local government. Make a lasting impact with innovative solutions and improved services for our community. Help us build a brighter future for our residents! Please see more information here: Information for applicants on Local Government Reorganisation - Surrey County Council Our Commitment We are a disability confident employer which means if you have shared a disability on your application form and have evidenced you meet the minimum shortlisting criteria, as displayed on the advert, we guarantee you an interview. Your skills and experience truly matter to us. From application to your first day, we’re committed to supporting you with any adjustments you need, we value inclusion and warmly welcome you to join and help build a workplace where everyone belongs.