Census Test Field Team Leader (University) Newcastle

About the job

Apply now for Census Test Field Team Leader (University) roles starting in February 2027.

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) is conducting an important large-scale Census Test in 2027, which will help shape the design and delivery of Census 2031.

AMS Skills Creation are working in partnership with ONS to are invite early interest from motivated, community-minded people interested in leading a team who’ll support the local student population to take part in this important project.

These roles are about making sure your team has the support they need to reach people effectively.

No previous census, survey or public sector experience is required. If you're confident leading and coaching teams to perform well and work independently and you want to make a difference in your local community, we would love to hear from you.

We are looking for transferable skills, including communication, confidence, organisation, self-motivation and resilience.

You will lead a team of up to 8 officers and will report to an Area Manager. Your team will work independently in and around campus and halls of residence , and will require your support, assistance and guidance.

Why Join Us?

This is a unique opportunity to:

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Lead a team on a nationally significant project

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Help ensure student communities are represented in future decision-making

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Develop and strengthen your leadership and operational management skills

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Gain valuable experience supporting and working with the UK's largest producer of official statistics.

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Receive comprehensive training and ongoing support.

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Be part of an inclusive, innovative team that helps shape future public services

Your responsibilities will include:

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Managing and motivating a team of Census Test Officers (University) to achieve project objectives

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Planning workloads, monitoring progress, allocating and ensuing field activities are delivered in line with required standards for safety, security and data quality.

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Monitoring progress and performance against operational targets

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Providing guidance, coaching and support to team members

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Maintaining accurate records and using digital systems to manage activity

This is a field-based leadership role not an office-based position. Travel within your assigned area will be required, with expenses reimbursed in line with ONS travel policies.

Contract and Working Pattern

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Start Date & Duration: February 2027, approximately 6 weeks

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Hours: Average 37 hours per week, with flexible working times between 8:00am and 8:00pm

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Evening & Weekend Availability: Some working hours are expected during evenings and weekends

Full Training Provided

You will begin with a comprehensive one-week training programme designed to give you everything you need to succeed.

We'll help you develop the skills and confidence to:

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Plan and organise your team’s workload effectively

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Manage visits confidently and safely

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Communicate with a wide range of people and problem-solving techniques

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Using digital systems, devices and reporting tools.

What we are looking for

You will need:

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Previous leadership, supervisory or coaching experience

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Confidence using a laptop and smartphone, including various digital applications.

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Excellent organisational and planning abilities

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The ability to manage competing priorities and meet deadlines

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Self-discipline, self-motivation and confidence working without close supervision.

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Strong communication and interpersonal skills

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Resilience, adaptability and sound decision-making skills, especially when supporting a team in the field.

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A positive approach to supporting and motivating others

Essential requirements

To be eligible, you'll need:

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To meet the eligibility criteria for Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS). BPSS includes identity, right to work, employment history; and criminal record (unspent convictions) checks.

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A reliable wireless broadband connection at your home address

Be Part of Something Bigger

The Census helps shape decisions about public services, housing, transport, healthcare and education. By joining the Census Test team, you'll play an important role in ensuring communities are accurately represented and that future census operations are as effective as possible.

Apply Today

We will be screening candidates throughout September and October.

By joining the Census Test team, you'll help ensure student communities are accurately represented while contributing to the successful design of Census 2031.

This is a unique opportunity to combine leadership, community engagement and public service in a role that delivers real impact