Research jobs in Edinburgh

Job Title: Policy Officer

Reference number: CF26-30

Location: Edinburgh, with Hybrid working

Salary: Band C, £30,602– £35,778 per annum

Post Type: Permanent, Full-time (35 hours per week)

Closing Date: 13th July 2026

Interview Date: 22nd or 23rd July 2026

Are you passionate about creating lasting change for children and families in Scotland?

Children First is Scotland's national children's charity. We are looking for a motivated and confident Policy Officer to join our Policy, Evidence and Impact Team and help shape policy and influencing work that improves outcomes for children, young people and families.

This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to Children First's strategic priorities by researching, monitoring and analysing policy developments, supporting the development of evidence-based policy positions, and helping ensure the voices and experiences of children and families are reflected in decision-making.

Working closely with the Policy Manager and colleagues across the organisation, you will support the development of briefings, consultation responses, evidence submissions and engagement activities with policymakers, partners and stakeholders across Scotland.

Key Responsibilities:

• Monitor and analyse policy, legislation, research and guidance relevant to Children First's strategic priorities.
• Carry out research and synthesise evidence to support the development of policy briefings, consultation responses and submissions.
• Support the development and delivery of Children First's policy and influencing work.
• Build and maintain positive relationships with policymakers, partners, charities, public bodies and other stakeholders.
• Coordinate meetings, events and engagement opportunities with children, families, partners and elected representatives.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues across the organisation to ensure policy work is informed by evidence, service insight and lived experience.
• Help amplify the voices and experiences of children, young people and families to inform policy development and influence change.
• Contribute to projects and activities across the wider Policy, Evidence and Impact Team.

Skills & Experience:

We're looking for someone who can demonstrate:

• Strong research and analytical skills, with the ability to understand complex issues and communicate them clearly in writing and verbally.
• Experience of gathering, interpreting and presenting information to support decision-making.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills, with the confidence to engage a range of audiences and stakeholders.
• Strong organisational skills, attention to detail and the ability to manage competing priorities.
• An understanding of children's rights and the issues affecting children, young people and families in Scotland.
• Awareness of the Scottish policy and legislative landscape.
• A collaborative and proactive approach, with the ability to work independently when required.
• A commitment to ensuring the voices of children, young people and families are heard and reflected in policy and influencing work.

What You'll Get From Us

• 40 days annual leave, inclusive of public holidays.
• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements.
• Pension scheme.
• Access to Westfield Health, including counselling support and wellbeing resources.
• Blue Light Card discounts.
• A Fair Work accredited workplace.
• The opportunity to make a meaningful difference to the lives of children and families across Scotland.

Our Values

Living our values, you will help create a workplace where our people can thrive, ensuring we deliver the best possible support to children and families.

With love, we put children first.

With purpose, we transform lives together.

With strength, we do whatever it takes to protect Scotland’s children.

How to Apply

If you share our values and are passionate about supporting our people, we would love to hear from you.

Closing Date: 13th July 2026

Interview Date: 22nd or 23rd July 2026

Contact: For more information, email lily.humphreys@childrenfirst.org.uk

To apply, please select here.