Bootle, Buxton, Nottingham
Job Summary We are looking for an exceptional social researcher to provide high quality analysis to provide support for the Building Safety Programme.
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is the independent regulator for work-related health and safety. Our purpose is to protect people and the environment – we save lives and we are highly regarded both nationally and internationally. The benefits that our work brings to business, workers and the UK economy are clear. Improved health and safety risk management protects workers and translates into reduced sickness absence, lower healthcare and welfare costs, and better productivity. As part of Government’s plans to bring about the biggest change in building safety for a generation, a new, national Building Safety Regulator (BSR) has been established in HSE as part of the Building Safety Programme. For further information about HSE please go to: http://www.hse.gov.uk.
For further information about the Building Safety Programme please go to: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/building-safety-programme. For further information about building safety please go to: https://www.hse.gov.uk/building-safety/index.htm. The current BSR strategic plan can be accessed here: https://www.hse.gov.uk/building-safety/strategic-plan.htm.
The government announced on 30 June 2025 that the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) is to become an Executive Agency of Ministry for Housing, Communities, and Local Government (MHCLG) and will be moved out of HSE. This is the natural next step in the development of the regulator and was always a likely outcome once BSR was established. Any successful candidates recruited to this vacancy will initially be onboarded to HSE, with a move to the new Executive Agency to be undertaken in due course. Travel This role can be based in any of the advertised locations, however occasional travel to other HSE offices will be required for team meetings and collaborative work.
Job Description You will provide social science based evidence to support the Building Safety Programme. Social researchers support delivery through providing robust evidence and analysis such as on the effectiveness of policy interventions and programmes.
You will work as part of HSE’s Economic and Social Analysis Team (ESAT). This multi-disciplinary team of economists and social researchers work closely on a wide variety of projects addressing the full remit of HSE’s mission. The wider Analysis and Data Group includes statisticians, psychologists, epidemiologists, data science colleagues and Geographic Information System (GIS) specialists. You will work closely with these specialists and with policy and operational colleagues to ensure evidence can increase the effectiveness of the BSR programme in improving health and safety outcomes.
HSE Science Division is spread principally between two sites in Bootle and Buxton, and includes a wide range of scientists undertaking research, testing, forensic work and commercial work.
The small and flexible nature of ESAT provides an excellent opportunity for you to increase your level of responsibility and exposure to senior staff, leading key strategic and analysis projects.
Key Responsibilities The main responsibilities that you would be undertaking include:
Providing sound social science based advice and analysis to support the BSP Working closely with other analysts, operational and policy colleagues and other stakeholders to understand and meet the evidence needs of the BSP Supporting the triangulation of secondary data sources such as programme monitoring data; existing baseline surveys and qualitative data Synthesis of evaluation evidence and drawing out key messages Further analysis of secondary data sources to answer specific policy questions Understanding implications of evidence and analysis for ongoing refinement of the theory of change Dissemination of evidence and analysis to generate impact Taking a proactive role in relation to your own professional development such as through engagement with GSR activities and professional opportunities and working alongside the GSR head of profession to share learning and support professional development within the team
You will provide social science based evidence to support the Building Safety Programme. Social researchers support delivery through providing robust evidence and analysis such as on the effectiveness of policy interventions and programmes.
You will work as part of HSE’s Economic and Social Analysis Team (ESAT). This multi-disciplinary team of economists and social researchers work closely on a wide variety of projects addressing the full remit of HSE’s mission. The wider Analysis and Data Group includes statisticians, psychologists, epidemiologists, data science colleagues and Geographic Information System (GIS) specialists. You will work closely with these specialists and with policy and operational colleagues to ensure evidence can increase the effectiveness of the BSR programme in improving health and safety outcomes.
HSE Science Division is spread principally between two sites in Bootle and Buxton, and includes a wide range of scientists undertaking research, testing, forensic work and commercial work.
The small and flexible nature of ESAT provides an excellent opportunity for you to increase your level of responsibility and exposure to senior staff, leading key strategic and analysis projects.
The Main Responsibilities That You Would Be Undertaking Include Providing sound social science based advice and analysis to support the BSP Working closely with other analysts, operational and policy colleagues and other stakeholders to understand and meet the evidence needs of the BSP Supporting the triangulation of secondary data sources such as programme monitoring data; existing baseline surveys and qualitative data Synthesis of evaluation evidence and drawing out key messages Further analysis of secondary data sources to answer specific policy questions Understanding implications of evidence and analysis for ongoing refinement of the theory of change Dissemination of evidence and analysis to generate impact Taking a proactive role in relation to your own professional development such as through engagement with GSR activities and professional opportunities and working alongside the GSR head of profession to share learning and support professional development within the team
Person specification
The roles are varied and will require employing a range of methodological approaches, both qualitative and quantitative. An understanding of evaluation approaches will be required. In particular, you will need to demonstrate sound quantitative analytical skills and previous experience of secondary analysis such as interrogating large scale datasets and triangulating data from a range of sources to provide robust evidence will be essential to the role.
Essential Skills And Criteria Delivering challenging research projects Producing robust social science based advice and analysis to support decision making Synthesis of data and information to understand the evidence base, highlights gaps and to convey key messages Research design, qualitative and quantitative data collection and analysis Advocating for social research and presenting to others about social research Presenting complex analysis clearly with demonstrable impact to non-specialists and/or senior managers Supporting senior leaders with effective partnership and collaborative working to deliver positive outcomes Critically evaluating data and information in order to make sound evidence based decisions A sound knowledge of the ethical issues and legal requirements surrounding research
Qualifications The expectation is that candidates will have the same qualifications as GSR (Government Social Research) members.
Qualification requirements are dependent on whether candidates are eligible for GSR professional membership under the qualification route or the experience route.
Qualification Route Applicants must hold an undergraduate degree at a minimum of 2:1, or 2:2 with an additional postgraduate degree. The degree must include a substantial research methods component, comprising around 30% of the modules taken on the course.
Experience Route Applicants must hold an undergraduate degree at a minimum of 2:1, or 2:2 with an additional postgraduate degree, in any subject; OR a degree equivalent such as the MRS Advanced Certificate in Market and Social Research Practice. In addition to the above qualification, applicants must also have at least 4 years’ experience of social research practice, which may consist of working in a research agency, market research agency or a specialist research team.
In Your Application, Please Remember To Include Details On Any social research modules taken as part of your undergraduate or postgraduate degree. Any relevant professional qualifications you hold, such as the MRS Advanced Certificate or equivalent.
You will be asked to provide proof of qualifications should you be successful at sift.
Behaviours
We'll assess you against these behaviours during the selection process:
Managing a Quality Service Making Effective Decisions
Technical skills
We'll assess you against these technical skills during the selection process:
Government Social Research Technical Framework - Knowledge of research methods, techniques and applications of these in small scale research projects Government Social Research Technical Framework -Identifying research needs, designing and specifying research Government Social Research Technical Framework - Using and Promoting Social Research - Leading, Communicating and Championing Social Research Government Social Research Technical Framework - Managing and commissioning social research
We only ask for evidence of these technical skills on your application form:
Government Social Research Technical Framework - Knowledge of research methods, techniques and applications of these in small scale research projects Government Social Research Technical Framework - Using and Promoting Social Research - Leading, Communicating and Championing Social Research Government Social Research Technical Framework - Managing and commissioning social research
Alongside your salary of £45,954, Health and Safety Executive contributes £13,312 towards you being a member of the Civil Service Defined Benefit Pension scheme. Find out what benefits a Civil Service Pension provides.
Learning and development tailored to your role An environment with flexible working options A culture encouraging inclusion and diversity
We invest in our people with;
Competitive rates of pay Access to the highly competitive Civil Service Pension Scheme to which HSE contribute 28.9% far more than in the private sector. Family friendly policies and working hours to help balance your home life and career. Carer friendly policies to help create a supportive working culture. 25 days annual holiday increasing to 30 days after 5 years' service, plus bank holidays and 1-day Civil Service privilege leave. Parental leave benefits. As a member of HSE you will gain access to a wide range of fantastic benefits that you can take advantage of such as the Cycle to Work Scheme, E-Gift Cards and Vouchers via our partner EdenRed.
Selection process details
This vacancy is using Success Profiles (opens in a new window), and will assess your Behaviours, Experience and Technical skills.
Application Information As part of your application you will be asked to complete an anonymised Personal Statement, of no more than 1000 words which demonstrates how you meet the essential skills and criteria of the job advert.
You will also be asked to complete 2 behavioural questions and 3 technical skills.
Sift information The sift will take place from 6th October when you will be assessed on your Personal Statement as well as the behaviours and technical skills listed in the advert.
We'll assess you against technical skills during the selection process: The Government Social Research (GSR) Technical Expertise Framework can be found at https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/65cb7328103de2000cb8f391/Government_Social_Research_Technical_Framework_v4.pdf
If candidates are successful at the sift stage and are NOT currently a GSR member, they will be required to pass a Social Research Knowledge Test. If candidates do not pass this test, they will not proceed to the main panel interview (2nd stage). Candidates will receive a link to complete this test and will have 7 days in which to complete it. Further information about this test will be included within the email candidates will receive containing the link to the test. Candidates who are successful at sift stage and are currently a GSR member will NOT be required to undertake the test, and will be taken through to the 2nd stage interview automatically. Interview information Interview Stage 1 Candidates successful at sift who are required to undertake the Social Research Knowledge Test at the 1st stage interview will be scheduled to be sent this test week commencing 20th October . If you are successful at this 1st stage interview, you will progress to the 2nd stage interview.
Interview Stage 2 Candidates successful at sift who are NOT required to undertake the test, will be progressed automatically to the second stage interview. The interviews will be held from 6th November . You will be assessed against the advertised behaviour and technical skills. You will also be asked to prepare a presentation of up to 10 minutes followed by questions by panel members. Further details will be provided if invited to interview.
Please be aware sift and interview dates may be subject to change due to panel availability.
If you are already a badged permanent member of GSR and therefore answer yes to the membership question, then you will be exempt from sitting the GSR test. Membership will be verified during the recruitment process and if applicants are found not to be members then their application will be immediately withdrawn. AI Tools & Platforms Artificial Intelligence can be a useful tool to support your application, however, all examples and statements provided must be truthful, factually accurate and taken directly from your own experience. Where plagiarism has been identified (presenting the ideas and experiences of others, or generated by artificial intelligence, as your own) applications may be withdrawn and internal candidates may be subject to disciplinary action. Please see our candidate guidance for more information on appropriate and inappropriate use.
Sponsorship This role is not open to application from those who will require sponsorship under the points-based system. Should you apply for this role and require sponsorship your application will be rejected, and any provisional offers of employment will be withdrawn.
Further Information Please note that a Reserve List will be held for the period of up to 12 months. There is no guarantee you will be offered a role from our reserve lists, so if you see a vacancy on Civil Service Jobs that you are interested in, we recommend you apply.
HSE reserve the right to conduct additional checks, including Google and social media checks, when recruiting candidates into a role within HSE. These checks will be carried out in line with the Civil Service Commission Principles and, if used all candidates will be subject to these additional checks.
From 23rd June 2025, if you are successful at interview, as part of your pre-employment checks, HSE’s Recruitment Team are required to check your details against the Internal Fraud Hub (IFH), using your personal details – name, NINO, and date of birth. If you are included on the database, you will be refused employment . If you believe that there has been an error in the inclusion of your data and wish to make an appeal, please contact the CO email box internal.fraud@cabinetoffice.gov.uk .
Details of the types of internal fraud/dishonesty covered by this process are defined by the Cabinet Office and can be found here Internal Fraud Register privacy notice - GOV.UK
Existing Civil Servants and applicants from accredited NDPBs are eligible to apply but will only be considered on loan basis (Civil Servants) or secondment (accredited NDPBs). Prior agreement to be released on a loan basis must be obtained before commencing the application process. In the case of Civil Servants, the terms of the loan will be agreed between the home and host department and the Civil Servant. This includes grade on return.
Furthermore, existing Civil Servants must gain written approval from their Line Manager prior to applying for this campaign. At the point of offer, you will be asked to provide this evidence. Offers will be revoked if the appropriate approvals cannot be produced when requested.
It is the candidate’s responsibility to ensure they are aware of the terms and conditions they will adopt should they be successful in their application. For a summary of HSE terms and conditions as part of Civil Service Reform, please see the attached HSE Terms and Conditions document.
Progression through pay ranges is subject to annual pay awards as permitted within annual Civil Service pay remit guidance and negotiations with Trade Unions.
HSE is proud to be a part of the Disability Confidence Scheme (DCS). As a Disability Confident employer, we positively welcome applications from disabled people. We are committed to making workplace adjustments to ensure anyone can participate in the recruitment and selection process.
If, during the application or interview process, you require any assistance due to a disability or a medical condition, please contact us at the email address below to discuss how we can support you. For example, if you have a disability, and you need an application form in an alternative format or you would like to know more about our recruitment process, please contact: HR.Resourcing-Team@hse.gov.uk
If successful in securing your role, HSE can provide suitable workplace adjustments to support you throughout your career with HSE.
Any move to HSE from another employer will mean you can no longer access childcare vouchers. This includes moves between government departments. You may however be eligible for other government schemes, including Tax Free Childcare. Determine your eligibility here
Please note, if you are a current civil servant and you are currently undergoing any of the following formal actions your application will not be progressed any further; Formal discipline action, any formal action regarding attendance, poor performance or any restriction of duties as a result of disciplinary action.
Feedback will only be provided if you attend an interview or assessment.
This vacancy is using Success Profiles (opens in a new window), and will assess your Behaviours, Experience and Technical skills.
Security
Successful candidates must undergo a criminal record check.
People working with government assets must complete baseline personnel security standard (opens in new window) checks.
Successful candidates must undergo a criminal record check.
People working with government assets must complete baseline personnel security standard (opens in new window) checks.
Nationality requirements
This Job Is Broadly Open To The Following Groups UK nationals nationals of the Republic of Ireland nationals of Commonwealth countries who have the right to work in the UK nationals of the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein and family members of those nationalities with settled or pre-settled status under the European Union Settlement Scheme (EUSS) (opens in a new window) nationals of the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein and family members of those nationalities who have made a valid application for settled or pre-settled status under the European Union Settlement Scheme (EUSS) individuals with limited leave to remain or indefinite leave to remain who were eligible to apply for EUSS on or before 31 December 2020 Turkish nationals, and certain family members of Turkish nationals, who have accrued the right to work in the Civil Service
Further information on nationality requirements (opens in a new window)
Working for the Civil Service
The Civil Service Code (opens in a new window) sets out the standards of behaviour expected of civil servants.
We recruit by merit on the basis of fair and open competition, as outlined in the Civil Service Commission's recruitment principles (opens in a new window).
The Civil Service embraces diversity and promotes equal opportunities. As such, we run a Disability Confident Scheme (DCS) for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria.
The Civil Service also offers a Redeployment Interview Scheme to civil servants who are at risk of redundancy, and who meet the minimum requirements for the advertised vacancy.
The Civil Service Code (opens in a new window) sets out the standards of behaviour expected of civil servants.
We recruit by merit on the basis of fair and open competition, as outlined in the Civil Service Commission's recruitment principles (opens in a new window).
The Civil Service embraces diversity and promotes equal opportunities. As such, we run a Disability Confident Scheme (DCS) for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria.
The Civil Service also offers a Redeployment Interview Scheme to civil servants who are at risk of redundancy, and who meet the minimum requirements for the advertised vacancy.
Diversity and Inclusion
The Civil Service is committed to attract, retain and invest in talent wherever it is found. To learn more please see the Civil Service People Plan (opens in a new window) and the Civil Service Diversity and Inclusion Strategy (opens in a new window).
This vacancy is part of the Great Place to Work for Veterans (opens in a new window) initiative.
Once this job has closed, the job advert will no longer be available. You may want to save a copy for your records.
Contact point for applicants
Job Contact Name : ESAT Email : Alison.Higgins@hse.gov.uk
Recruitment team
Email : HR.Resourcing-Team@hse.gov.uk
Further information
If you believe that Civil Service Commission principles of selection for appointment on merit on the basis of Fair and Open competition have not been met, you can raise a complaint by emailing: HR.Resourcing-Team@hse.gov.uk or by writing to HSE at the following address: HR Resourcing Team, 2.3 Redgrave Court, Merton Road, Bootle, Merseyside, L20 7HS. If you are not satisfied with the response you receive from the Department, you can contact Civil Service commissioners: https://civilservicecommission.independent.gov.uk/code/civilservicecodecomplaints/
