Job Description

Directorate

Policy, Analysis & Standards

Business Area

Research & Evaluation

Location

Glasgow or Dalkeith

Salary range

51,908 - 58,484

Type of Contract

Permanent Contract

Part Time/Full Time

Full Time/'Happy to talk flexible working'

Workstyle

Hybrid

Actual Hours

35

Closing Date

03/12/2025

Ref No

6854




Qualifications Scotland's purpose is clear and unwavering: to design, deliver and award qualifications that empower all learners with the fair and equal opportunity to reach their potential. This is our promise to every learner in Scotland that their background will never be a barrier to accessing qualifications which will help shape their future.



As SQA transitions to Qualifications Scotland (QS) we will continue to establish its Policy, Analysis and Standards (PAS) Directorate with the aim of placing research and analysis at the heart of QS's decision making. We are looking for two Senior Researchers to join the Research and Evaluation team within PAS. This is an important role at QS and will help us to generate the evidence required to inform decision making and policy development in QS and Scotland's education system.



The successful candidates will be required to design, undertake and disseminate high quality research and evaluation to provide insight into QS's performance and qualifications. In order to do this you must be able to demonstrate experience in the following specific duties:


Provide research expertise and advice to colleagues throughout QS, as necessary. Design, plan, manage, and carry out programmes of research using a range of appropriate methodologies on behalf of QS, including joint projects with stakeholders, national and international bodies Research, draft and present evidence-based papers, which may challenge existing practices and approaches, to senior groups and committees

Additionally you must be able to demonstrate the following skills and experience:


Sound theoretical and practical knowledge and understanding of research and evaluation Experience of planning and carrying out the dissemination of complex research findings to a wide range of internal and external stakeholders at all level. The ability to design, plan, manage and carry out research on wide-ranging topics

Applicants, as a minimum, should be educated to SCQF Level 12 or be able to demonstrate direct relevant experience for this role. Also, role model the behaviours associated with SQA's values (Trusted, Progressive and Enabling) in order to develop and sustain a productive and positive culture.



SQA offer a fantastic benefits package in return for your talent whilst also offering hybrid working as default. These include but are not limited to a career average pension scheme; staff well-being and health assistance programmes; development opportunities and 27 days annual leave in addition to 14 days public holiday. Find out more here: SQA Benefits



If you think you've got the skills, knowledge and experience required to succeed in this exciting opportunity please apply below. Interviews will be held on 15th December 2025.


SQA welcomes applications from every section of the community.

Tha Plana Gaidhlig aig SQA agus tha sinn dealasach le na h-amasan sa Phlana Canain Naiseanta Ghaidhlig ( SQA has a Gaelic Language Plan, and we are committed to the aims of the National Gaelic Language Plan


We are an Equal Opportunities employer and encourage applications from all members of the community. We are committed to the Disability Confident Initiative and offer a guaranteed interview to any applicant who considers themself to be disabled and who meets the competency requirements for the post.