We are looking for a Research Officer to join the Research, Intelligence, and Inclusive Growth team. In this 12-month fixed-term role, your insight will help shape decisions that impact people, places, and the environment across the West Midlands as we seek to make our region the best place to live, work and visit.
You’ll deliver high-quality research and analysis in line with our Annual Research Plan, working alongside policy teams to advance the Mayoral priorities of growth and homes for everyone.
One week, you could be building case studies to support the West Midlands Growth Plan and our other key strategies. The next, analysing business surveys to improve how we support businesses including our social economy sector; exploring the role of creative industries in regeneration of our town centres; or investigating how housing and health contributes to our Inclusive Growth missions. You might even help guide our path to Net Zero by examining energy systems and environmental impacts. Whatever the project, your work will turn evidence into action.
What you will be doing
- Producing robust, timely research that informs key policy decisions.
- Translating complex findings into clear, accessible reports and briefings.
- Ensuring evidence underpins our decision-making processes.
- Presenting insights to a range of audiences, from technical experts to community stakeholders.
- Promoting the value of research across the directorate including inclusive growth, housing, homelessness, energy and the environment.
What’s essential.
- Strong qualitative and/or quantitative research skills.
- An ability to work independently on small research projects
- Confidence with spreadsheets and Microsoft Office.
- The ability to explain complex ideas in a way that makes sense to everyone.
- A proactive, organised approach to meeting tight deadlines.
- A genuine interest in the economic, social, and environmental issues shaping the West Midlands.
Location.
The location for this role is Summer Lane with at least 2 days a week spent in the office.
How to apply.
Applying for a role with WMCA is straight forward. Follow these steps to get started.
- Create your Careers Account. Register with your name, email address, and a password.
- Build your Profile.Upload your CV to help populate your career and education details.
- Write your Supporting Statement.Make sure to address each of the required essential criteria.
- Submit your application.Do one final check and once complete, click submit.
Anonymised Applications.
Your uploaded CV won’t be visible after submission. Our process is anonymised, and only the information in your profile is used for shortlisting. Be thorough in each section. it’s your chance to showcase your skills and experience.
Using Artificial Intelligence (AI)
We cannot stop anyone from using AI help write application content. Used right, it can be a great tool. If you choose to use AI, then use it as a helper rather than relying on it wholly to write your application.
Applications that rely too heavily on AI may be rejected during shortlisting. For help on how to write a supporting statement, please visit the FAQs section of our careers site.
Reasonable adjustments.
If you have an accessibility need, disability, or condition that means you might require changes to the application or recruitment process, please get in touch with our Recruitment Team ().
Salary and benefits.
We advertise salary ranges, with new appointments typically starting at the lowest salary point. In exceptional cases, the salary point may be adjusted to secure the best candidate. This approach allows for potential year-on-year salary increases, offering progression and appropriate rewards to employees. Requests for salaries above the maximum advertised range will not be considered.
We offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes:
- Local Government Pension Scheme (one of the most generous pension schemes in the UK).
- 28 days paid annual leave (with an option to purchase more)
- EV car benefit scheme
- Ethical saving options and healthcare plans.
- Discounted gym membership, will writingandmortgage advice.
- An option to buy a bicycle, including e-bikes and adapted pedal cycles, at a discounted rate.
- 3 days of paid leave each year to volunteer.
- Interest free financing through SmartTech to buy the latest technology
- Discounted shopping with over 2,000 big-name retailers, and more.
For more information, please visit the benefits page on our career site.
Why join WMCA?
WMCA is laser-focused on improving the West Midlands, bringing economic growth, jobs, homes, and better journeys to the region. We target local needs where it matters most, ensuring everyone has a job that pays well and has access to safe and affordable places they can call home.
We put people and place at the heart of everything we do, working hand in hand with our partners to direct funding where it's needed most. What you do, really matters. Your expertise will help make a big difference, improving people's lives, every day.
Creating an inclusive workplace.
WMCA holds diversity accreditations, such as the RACE Code Quality Mark, Armed Forces Covenant (Gold status) and has been recognised as one of the Inclusive Top 50 Employers and The Times Top 50 Employers for Women. We’re a Disability Confident Employer with ‘Leader’ status, committed to interviewing applicants with disabilities who meet all the essential role criteria.
We recognise that certain groups, such as women and people of colour, may be less likely to apply for roles if they feel they do not meet all the requirements. However, we encourage individuals who are passionate about the role and want to make a difference to still apply. We value potential and encourage applicants to highlight their skills, including transferable ones, even if they don't fit the traditional "perfect candidate" mould.
We gladly consider part-time, flexible, and job share arrangements, so please don't let these factors deter you from applying
Right to Work in the UK
Proof of Right to Work in the UK will be required for all applicants in accordance with UK Home Office requirements, before any employment offer can be confirmed.
Non-UK applicants (excluding Ireland) would be required to hold a relevant Visa from the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).
