Census Test Field Officer (University) Newcastle in Newcastle upon Tyne

About the job 

Apply now for Census Test Field Officer (University), opportunities 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 hire enthusiastic, community-minded Census Test Field Officers (University), to deliver the Census test in university halls of residence. You’ll support your local student population to take part in this important project. No previous census or survey experience is required.  

If you're confident speaking with people, enjoy working independently, and want to make a difference in your local student community, we would love to hear from you. 

Why Join Us? 

This is a unique opportunity to: 

• Play a key role in a nationally important project. 

• Help students take part and make sure they have the opportunity to be represented. 

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

• Enjoy flexible working patterns that can fit around your existing commitments. 

• Receive comprehensive training and ongoing support. 

• Be part of an inclusive and innovative team making a real impact on public services of the future. 

About the Roles 

As a Census Test Field Officer (University), you'll be working in and around university halls of residence, visiting selected student accommodation, attending events and encouraging students to complete their Census questionnaire. 

Your responsibilities will include: 

• Visiting addresses and accurately recording the visit outcome 

• Liaising with Halls Managers   

• Attending Census events on campus and in halls of residence 

• Promoting the benefits of the census, encouraging a positive response from students 

• Providing regular reports on progress to your line manager, attending team meetings 

• Encouraging, and assisting with, completion  

The role is field-based and you will be expected to work across a range of locations associated with your allocated halls of residence 

Your work will be allocated with the aim of ensuring you can travel and complete it within your contracted hours.  You will be paid an hourly rate, plus travel expenses in line with ONS’ travel policy. 

As a Census Test Field Officer (University), you'll be working in and around university halls of residence, visiting selected student accommodation, attending events and encouraging students to complete their Census questionnaire. 

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: 

• Plan and organise your workload effectively 

• Manage visits confidently and safely 

• Communicate with a wide range of people 

• Use the technology and systems required for the role 

What we are looking for 

You don't need previous census, survey or public sector experience. 

We're interested in people who have: 

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills 

• A friendly, approachable and professional manner 

• The confidence to engage with a wide range of people 

• Confidence using a smartphone and mobile applications 

• Strong organisational skills and the ability to work independently 

• Self-motivation and reliability 

• Problem-solving skills and resilience 

Essential requirements 

To be eligible, you'll need: 

• A reliable wireless broadband and/or 4G mobile data signal at your home 

• 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. 

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