Parliamentary Assistant / Researcher

Josh Dean MP, the MP for Hertford and Stortford, is seeking a Parliamentary Assistant / Researcher to support him in his work for his constituents.

The funding for this post is available for 1 year only.

Working to the Senior Parliamentary Assistant, this is an opportunity for somebody who wants to make a difference and learn about the work of an MP and their team.

Essential requirements

The ideal candidate will be able to evidence that they:

• are hard working;
• have good interpersonal skills;
• are able to learn from their experiences to further their development;
• have a good standard of spoken and written English;
• can research topics and then summarise and apply that research;
• are clear and accurate in their communication;
• can follow instructions, asking for help if necessary;
• have strong organisational and administrative skills;
• have good timekeeping skills;
• have a good standard of IT literacy;
• have an understanding of the issues facing people in the constituency;
• have an understanding of how Parliament and political processes work;
• understand how, in this role, they could contribute to Josh achieving his goals.

Key responsibilities

RESEARCH

Undertake research on relevant subjects as directed, to support:

• the drafting of correspondence,
• the creation of briefings for the MP.

WRITING

• Deal with large numbers of standard queries, as well as assisting on more complex cases from members of the public by phone, email, social media or face to face.
• Draft standard responses to constituents.

CASEWORK AND CAMPAIGNS

• Analyse patterns of enquiries and produce reports.
• Help collate information about constituency issues and campaigns.
• Log cases on the Caseworker database/CMS (Case Management System); monitor progress and ensure all identified actions are taken.

PARLIAMENT

• Develop and maintain current knowledge on relevant areas of parliamentary business and legislation, and how they impact on the constituency.

ADMINISTRATIVE

• Ensure records are kept and information managed confidentially in line with the data protection legislation.
• Provide administrative support to the Senior Parliamentary Assistant and help ensure the smooth running of the Parliamentary office.

OTHER

• There may be a requirement for the role holder to work outside of the normal working hours, including attending events with the MP as required.