Settlement Officer, Uist

ADVERT

Settlement Officer, Uist
37 hours per week, Fixed Term for 12 Months
£36,430 - £39,362 per annum, inclusive of £2,997 Distant Islands Allowance per Annum

Help Shape the Future of Uist

Are you passionate about communities, people and place? Do you want to play a key role in tackling population decline and supporting the continued growth and sustainability of our island communities?

Comhairle nan Eilean Siar is seeking an enthusiastic and proactive Settlement Officer to support people who are considering making Uist and Benbecula their home.

This is a unique opportunity to make a real difference. You will work directly with individuals and families looking to relocate, helping them navigate everything from housing, childcare and local services to employment opportunities and community connections. Acting as a welcoming first point of contact, you will help people overcome barriers to relocation and settle successfully into island life.

You will also play an important role in promoting the benefits of living and working in Uist and Benbecula, supporting innovative resettlement initiatives and helping to build the evidence base that informs local and national efforts to address population challenges.

As Settlement Officer, you will be a key member of the Comhairle's Economic & Community Regeneration Team and will participate in the work of the Uist Repopulation Partnership. 

About You

We are looking for someone who:

• Understands the opportunities and challenges of living and working in Uist and Benbecula. 

• Has experience in economic development, community development or a related field.
• Enjoys working with people and building relationships across communities, businesses and public sector organisations.
• Is an excellent communicator with strong organisational skills and the ability to manage a varied workload.
• Is motivated, adaptable and passionate about supporting thriving island communities.

Why Join Us?

This role offers the chance to:

• Make a meaningful contribution to the future sustainability of Uist and Benbecula.
• Build strong partnerships across the public, private and community sectors.
• Be part of a supportive team committed to strengthening island communities.
• Enjoy a rewarding role where no two days are the same.

We recognise the importance of flexible working and welcome informal discussions about potential flexibility in working arrangements.

A full driving licence is required.

For an informal discussion about the role, please contact Kareen MacRury at kareen.macrury@cne-siar.gov.uk.

Please ensure you read the Job Description and Person Specification carefully and clearly demonstrate how you meet the essential criteria within your application.

Interviews will be conducted in person, giving candidates the opportunity to meet the team and experience the working environment firsthand.

Closing Date: Monday 7 September 2026

Salary is inclusive of Distant Islands Allowance. Appointment will normally be made at the first point of the grade with annual incremental progression.

Please note that sponsorship is not available for this post.

PRIOR TO APPLYING

It is vital that you download and read all of the attached documents to this advert before completing an application form. 

Guidance Notes for Applicants will explain our recruitment process and how to complete key information on your application so that you have the best chance of showcasing your skills and experience.

Job Description and Person Specification must be read in order to complete the ‘Experience’ part of the application.  You should refer to the person specification and detail where you meet each of the criteria and provide relevant examples of this in your application.

Download and save the job description, person specification and any additional documents from the vacancy job advert as you will be unable to access these once the vacancy has closed.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools, such as Copilot and ChatGPT, may be used to support your application preparation, for example by generating ideas or checking spelling and grammar.  However, all application responses must be your own work and accurately reflect your knowledge, skills and abilities, experience, qualifications, and achievements.

Applications that appear to rely heavily on AI-generated content may not be progressed.  By submitting an application, you confirm that the information provided is authentic and based on your own experience.

 Application Updates:
Please ensure your email address is entered correctly, as all correspondence regarding your application will be sent by email.  We also recommend checking your inbox, junk folder, and your MyJobScotland account regularly for updates.