The State Laboratory is seeking a permanent Higher Executive Officer (HEO) to join its Engagement, Communications and Information Services (ECIS) Section.

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Reporting to the Assistant Principal, the successful candidate will play a key role in supporting communications, information management, staff engagement and strategic initiatives across the organisation. The role will involve working closely with colleagues across the Laboratory, translating complex information into clear communications, coordinating compliance functions and supporting a positive and effective working environment.

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Key responsibilities include:

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• Develop and implement internal and external communications campaigns and programmes.

• Manage content for the State Laboratory’s external website, internal communications platforms and corporate communications materials.

• Compile and produce the State Laboratory annual report, coordinating input from across the organisation and managing timelines and stakeholder contributions.

• Coordinate external stakeholder engagement, including liaison with other Government agencies and departments.

• Support social media engagement and the implementation of the internal communications strategy.

• Coordinate information management and compliance functions, including support for Data Protection, Freedom of Information and Access to Information on the Environment responsibilities.

• Support information storage, archiving and records management processes.

• Plan and deliver Laboratory-wide staff events, including managing budgets and procurement for communications and engagement activities.

• Gather and analyse staff and stakeholder input, identifying key themes and preparing clear summaries, reports, briefings and presentations for management.

• Provide high-quality administrative support to the ECIS Section, including documentation, filing systems and record-keeping.
   

Essential Requirements:

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Candidates must, on or before the closing date, meet one of the following criteria:
 

• Hold an NFQ Level 7 qualification or higher in an area directly relevant to the role, such as information studies, communications, event management, public administration or business administration, and have at least 4 years’ relevant experience.
   

OR

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• Have demonstrated experience directly relevant to the role amounting to at least 7 years’ experience, gained within the last 10 years.
   

Key Skills and Experience:
 

• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to translate complex information for a range of audiences.

• Strong administrative, organisational and document management skills.

• Experience working across multiple stakeholders and building effective working relationships.

• The ability to gather, analyse and present information clearly and accurately.

• Experience managing multiple projects and priorities while maintaining a high standard of work.

• The ability to work effectively across both routine administrative responsibilities and strategic projects.

• Sound judgement and the ability to work within formal structures and procedures.

• A proactive and solution-focused approach to identifying and addressing issues.
   

Desirable:

• Competency in the Irish language.

• Experience working in a public sector or regulated environment.

• Experience in communications, information management, compliance, stakeholder engagement or event management.
   

The State Laboratory is based at the Backweston Laboratory Campus, Young’s Cross, Celbridge, Co. Kildare. The organisation offers a range of flexible and family-friendly working policies, including flexi-time and blended working. It is envisaged that remote working may be available for up to two days per week on an ad hoc basis, subject to business requirements. The State Laboratory also provides access to ongoing learning and development opportunities through the Civil Service digital learning platform OneLearning.

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Candidates must explicitly demonstrate how they meet the eligibility requirements in their application. Documentary evidence of qualifications and other eligibility requirements may be requested from candidates who come under consideration.

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How to Apply

1. Download the Information Booklet below:

Job Information Booklet (Download)

2. Fill out the Application Form

Application Form (Download)​


3. Candidates must apply with their CV via the link below.​

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Apply Here​​​

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*We require a CV and the completed online application form to be submitted in order for your application to be accepted

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