ASSEMBLY CONSTITUENCY OFFICE ASSISTANT

21 hours (3 days) per week  
Option of reduced hours to 1 or 2 days per week (pro rata) possible by agreement

Location: Constituency Office at 236a Ballysillan Road, Belfast BT14 6QZ

Duration: Permanent (as long as Brian Kingston remains an MLA)

To apply, please email your CV, including two contacts for references, and a covering letter setting out why you believe you meet the criteria for the job to brian.kingston@mla.niassembly.gov.uk by 5.00pm on Wednesday 5th March 2025.

Note, it is intended that interviews of short-listed candidates will be held on the morning of Friday 7th March 2025.

We are committed to providing equality of opportunity in employment and welcome applications from all suitably qualified applicants irrespective of gender, marital or family status, religious belief, political opinion, disability, age, race, nationality or sexual orientation. Appointments will be based on merit.

JOB DESCRIPTION

•  Managing incoming calls, emails and enquiries to progress a portfolio of casework appropriately

•  Providing information/advice to constituents on a range of issues including housing, welfare, education and health

•  Gathering relevant information to assist with resolving cases

•  Drafting letters / correspondence

•  Ensuring enquiries are dealt with sensitively and confidentially

•  Retaining records and information confidentially and in line with the Data Protection Act

•  Updating/maintaining databases

•  Building relationships with relevant statutory bodies, community/voluntary groups and the general public within the constituency on the Member's behalf as necessary

•  Other duties as required in support of the MLA carrying out their Assembly duties

PERSONNEL SPECIFICATION

Essential Criteria

•  Third level degree OR 2 years minimum relevant experience

•  A high standard of verbal and written communication skills

•  Must have a working knowledge of Microsoft Office, Outlook/Emails etc

•  Proven ability to work independently and as part of a small team to see tasks through to conclusion

Desirable Criteria

•  Experience of advising and problem-solving directly with the public

•  Knowledge of services / responsibilities of government departments and agencies in Northern Ireland, including housing, health and welfare;

•  Experience within a political environment would be advantageous

•  Experience in managing casework

•  Experience of working in the advice sector