Jobs

We are seeking a highly motivated and politically astute Political Assistant to support the Reform Group within Durham County Council.  This post is temporary until 23 May 2029.

This is a varied and fast-paced role at the heart of local democracy. You will work closely with elected members, providing research, policy, communications, and administrative support to help deliver the group’s priorities.

You will bring strong analytical and writing skills, an instinct for political messaging, and the ability to build effective relationships with councillors, officers, and external stakeholders. Acting as a key link across the organisation, you will help translate political priorities into deliverable policies and clear, accessible public messaging.

Please note: this role supports Council business only and does not involve party political campaigning outside of that remit.

WHAT IS INVOLVED?
You will:-

• Conduct research and analysis to support policy development
• Produce briefings, reports, and communications materials
• Monitor political, legislative, and media developments
• Support media activity and deliver social media content
• Liaise with councillors, officers, and external stakeholders
• Organise meetings, agendas, and provide administrative support

WHAT WILL I NEED?
You will have:

• Relevant experience or NVQ Level 3 (or equivalent)
• Experience in political research, public affairs, or communications
• Strong understanding of UK politics and local government
• Excellent writing, analytical, and organisational skills
• Experience with social media and digital content
• Political awareness and ability to handle sensitive situations
• A proactive, professional, and resilient approach

Additional Requirement
This role supports the Reform Political Group. You must be able to work in line with, and actively support, the values, priorities and objectives of the Group.

This is a politically restricted post, for further information please see attached Job Description and Person Specification.

KEY RECRUITMENT DATES

• Shortlisting will be held 17 July 2026
• Interviews will be held 23 July 2026

We operate a guaranteed interview scheme for applicants that can show they meet all the essential criteria and have indicated they have a disability, are a looked after young person, care leaver or a veteran.
 
OUR OFFER TO YOU
We offer a competitive rewards package that includes attractive salaries, a generous annual leave entitlement of 27 days (rising to 32 after five years’ continuous local government service), membership of the excellent contributory career average Local Government Pension Scheme, and a range of flexible working arrangements including hybrid working (home and office) where applicable. Explore the full range of rewards and benefits on our website 

Rewards and benefits are subject to individual terms and conditions.
 
EQUALITY, DIVERSITY, AND INCLUSION
We are a proud equal opportunities employer and believe a diverse workforce brings fresh ideas and drives service improvement. We welcome applications from everyone and make employment decisions based on skills and ability. As a Disability Confident Leader, we actively encourage applications from disabled and neurodivergent people and offer support throughout the recruitment process.
 
HOW TO APPLY 
Please note, we do not accept CVs. All applications must be submitted online via the Northeast Jobs portal. Use the ‘Person Specification’ section of the form to clearly demonstrate how you meet the essential (and where possible, desirable) criteria. Applications that do not evidence the essential requirements will not be shortlisted.

Please visit our website to understand our position on using AI to support your application and for guidance on completing your application.
 
If you require assistance when applying for this role, please contact our Recruitment Helpdesk on 03000 26 27 27, or via email recruitmentCES@durham.gov.uk
 
All correspondence relating to your application will be sent from donotreply@northeastjobs.org.uk. Kindly check your spam/junk folder regularly to ensure you don’t miss any updates.
 
CONNECT WITH US
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Company: Durham County Council

Salary: Grade 7 £30,024 to £33,699 (pay award pending)

Location: Durham, Durham

Sector: Education

Job Role: Teaching Assistant