Social Science Researcher (FTC)

Contract: Full-time, 35 hours
Duration: Fixed-term to 30 September 2022
Salary: £20,400 to £22,200 dependent on experience
Location: Flexible - good access to transport links in Sussex required

Closing: We are considering applications on a rolling basis until Sunday 24th October 2021. We may close this role when a suitable applicant is found.

Sussex seas are now better protected for generations to come thanks to progressive new management measures which mean that trawling is now banned in large areas off the Sussex coast to allow habitats to regenerate (Sussex nearshore trawling byelaw). We invite you to join us as a Social Science Researcher to ensure that the process and tools used to achieve this landmark protection are captured and shared to enable wider application of the approach across the UK.

You’ll work with the Sussex Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authorities (IFCA) and use a range of research methods, including stakeholder mapping, interviews and desk-based evidence gathering. The research outcomes will illustrate how local and national support helped make the case for the byelaw, which will then be published as an accessible ‘how-to’ document with key learnings and steps.

You will also explore the public views and values on the effects of the byelaw. You’ll work together with our Volunteer Engagement and Ocean Recovery teams to identify where face to face data in IFCA districts can be collected.

This is a real opportunity for your work to create a lasting impact for you and for our oceans. Your evidence gathering will inform a feasibility study for the potential of similar byelaws in other IFCA districts.

Research & Analysis: Can show us evidence of your experience in designing research tools and gathering/analysing both qualitative and quantitative social data. Evidence of the application of qualitative and quantitative social data analysis with an interest in novel and creative approaches. Has an understanding of the need for robust social science evidence to inform work in the conservation sector. Has some knowledge of best practice in stakeholder engagement.

Reporting: Able to write clearly and in an accessible way for a range of audiences, both in and outside of our team. Can provide relevant data and research to input into other team projects and proposals.

Delivering: Highly organised, can create an evidence bank to store and share data appropriately and in line with our data policies. Able to travel and flexibility to attend events that may be on weekends or evenings.

Working with us: Takes an inclusive and equitable approach to engagement, is a problem-solver and supports others and enjoys working with a team of passionate advocates for our ocean and environment. We are looking for you to demonstrate our values, but we value your unique perspectives and experiences which add to our knowledge and our culture.

What we need to see

Your CV - it would really help us if you removed all of your personal information prior to sending your CV to us.

A motivation statement - tell us how your experience meets the role requirements by including examples of your work or experiences which show how you will meet the job criteria and person specification and what skills you bring which would make you successful in the role. Your motivation statement should also let us know what inspired you to apply for this role with us.

We find that stronger applications have this statement - to give yourself the best opportunity for this role, please ensure you include it. No need to write pages, one side of A4 would be perfect, two would be more than enough so try to limit yourself.

We understand that the application process can be difficult if you have a condition or disability that you live with. We want to make it as easy as possible for you to shine during your application process, so please let us know what we can do to accommodate you.

Selection process
If you’re invited to an interview, you may be requested to prepare a task in advance or take part in a group activity as part of the assessment process - we’ll let you have all the details in the invitation to interview. We will also invite you to talk to us about any reasonable adjustments which would support you in fully taking part in the interview process.

The legal bit
If you’re successful, all offers of employment are conditional, subject to the following:
- We are not licensed to issue work permits so candidates are required to provide proof of eligibility to work in the UK and will be required to present original documents if invited for interview. Information on what you’ll need to show will be provided as part of the invitation to attend an interview, but you can read more on the Home Office UK Border Agency website: UK Visas and Immigration
- Receipt of two references which are satisfactory to MCS

Our Commitment
Everyone can expect to be treated with consideration and respect and MCS is committed to providing an inclusive environment for all. Good working relationships release the full potential, creativity and productivity of each individual, in an atmosphere where everyone can learn and work without prejudice, discrimination, harassment or violence.

We are committed to developing a team which is reflective of our society, and which can offer insight and views that influence our work. We are particularly interested in applications from groups which are under-represented in marine, environmental and charity sectors. If you would like to speak to us, please contact the HR team.

Registered Charity No: 1004005 (England and Wales) SC037480 (Scotland)

So, if you’re seeking your next challenge as a Social Science Researcher, please apply via the button shown. This vacancy is being advertised by Webrecruit. The services advertised by Webrecruit are those of an Employment Agency.