UKCEH is looking for an experienced Project/Programme Support Officer to join our team of talented individuals, contributing to scientific discovery and generating the data, insights and solutions that researchers, businesses and governments need to solve complex environmental challenges.

Working at UKCEH is rewarding. Our science makes a real difference, enabling people and the environment to prosper, and enriching society. We are the custodians of a wealth of environmental data, collected by UKCEH and its predecessors over the course of more than 60 years.

As a valued member of our team, you’ll get:

• 27 days annual leave, rising to 29 days after five years, plus 3 days for our Christmas closure
• 10% employer pension contribution
• Enhanced maternity and paternity leave (subject to qualifying requirements)
• 24 hour, 365-day access to support with physical, mental, social, health or financial issues plus access to our trained Welfare Officers
• Flexible working opportunities

And much more…

Are you passionate about addressing societal challenges such as climate change and biodiversity loss? Would you like to contribute to projects which deepen our understanding of the natural world? If so, read on!

We are recruiting for a Project/Programme Support Officer to join a small, busy, and established Project team within our Hydro Climate Risk area. Reporting to the Programme Manager, you will play a vital role in this project office, providing essential support and equipping the team with the resources, information, and assistance needed to deliver various research activities.

One of the projects you will be supporting includes:

• Hydro-JULES – a UK-funded research programme launched in 2018 that unites Modellers, Hydrologists and Meteorologists to collaborate on data and methods for developing advanced hydrological models (https://hydro-jules.org/)

In this dynamic and fast-paced environment you will manage a diverse range of tasks across various projects while collaborating with different stakeholders. We are looking for a motivated individual who is team-oriented, flexible, and proactive, with a strong commitment to finding solutions and working effectively with colleagues.

This role demands a methodical approach to routine tasks, meticulous attention to detail, and a commitment to high levels of accuracy. You will be adept at setting up Management Information Systems and have a solid understanding of modern communication tools and IT systems, ensuring the production of high-quality reports and documents. You should also demonstrate enthusiasm for learning new approaches and a keen interest in leveraging software-based solutions to enhance processes.

You’ll be joining a leading independent, not-for-profit research institute that’s committed to recruiting talented people like you, progressing your career and giving you the support you need to thrive at UKCEH.

Your main responsibilities will include:

• Working closely with the Project Office to produce preliminary material such as meeting agendas and papers, external communications and outreach materials, website and social media channels
• Supporting the planning, design, and management of programme or project activities
• Monitor and report on the progress of the programme or project
• Coordinating workshops and meetings, sourcing and booking venues and arranging catering
• Capturing and tracking project progress in meetings, circulating minutes, and proactively tracking progress against actions
• Engaging with stakeholders, communicating updates and gathering feedback
• Supporting with risks management, suggesting mitigation strategies
• Establish a document library and ensure the project team are complying with standards & requirements

For the role of Project/Programme Support Officer, we’re looking for somebody who has:

• Proven experience in fast-paced environments, handling secretarial tasks such as minute-taking, agenda preparation, diary management, and travel arrangements
• An appreciation of project management methodologies, or is eager to pursue a career in project management
• An interest in academic, scientific of research environments
• A proactive approach as a team player, eager to support both your own tasks and those of your colleagues
• The capability to work independently, effectively managing time to complete both long-term and short-term tasks.
• Flexibility to prioritise effectively and handle a diverse workload from various projects and people, with a willingness to develop new skills
• Confidence in liaising with internal and external stakeholders and third-party suppliers
• Excellent working knowledge of MS O365, SharePoint, Power BI, and videoconferencing (MS Teams, Zoom)

Knowledge of the following would be highly advantageous:

• Experience supporting multiple projects or a complex programme
• Proven track record of helping deliver programmes/projects on time and within budget
• Able to set up Management Information Systems (MIS) for projects
• Ability to promote organisational/program management standards for programmes/projects
• Experience assisting with the planning and delivery of stakeholder events from start to finish, including budget and progress management

This is an exciting and unique opportunity for someone with a excellent administrative skills looking to forge a career in project management. Within this role we can support your personal development and will help you develop your skills and experience, preparing you for increased responsibility as you become familiar with the organisation and its processes.

An important part of the role will be to understand the purpose of the projects which is why are looking for someone who has a genuine interest and enthusiasm for the research you will be assisting. If you thrive on precision, continuous improvement, and innovative problem-solving, we encourage you to apply.

* A willingness to travel within the UK and possibly overseas for short-duration meetings and conferences is essential.