Scottish Climate Intelligence Service Communications Officer

Job Description

The Improvement Service (IS), working with the Edinburgh Climate Change Institute (ECCI), the Sustainable Scotland Network (SSN), COSLA and Scottish Government, has established the Scottish Climate Intelligence Service (SCIS).

SCIS is building capacity within Scottish local authorities to improve decision making for area-wide emissions reduction by providing the data and tools, and building the skills and confidence in using them, to deliver better climate outcomes and realise the social and economic benefits of a zero carbon Scotland.

The purpose of the Communications Officer is to support external communication in this impactful and dynamic programme. The workload will be varied with the opportunity to shape the communication strategy and delivery. SCIS communication activities have two key aims: to simplify and clearly communicate complex topics related to area-wide emissions reduction to local authority users and external audiences; and to communicate both the programme and local authorities’ progress, successes and insights to wider audiences through newsletters, social media posts and briefings.

The appointment will be until March 2027 with the likelihood of re-appointment subject to continuation of funding, a satisfactory performance assessment and the role meeting the continuing requirements of the Scottish Government, COSLA, the Improvement Service, ECCI and SSN.

Skills and knowledge

Applicants must demonstrate knowledge of climate change and sustainability communication, alongside experience in design work and delivery of communication campaigns. Skills in multi tasking and working productively with others are essential, and the ability to design and deliver communication materials and campaigns for a variety of audiences.

Information

Location: Your primary place of work will be West Lothian Civic Centre, Howden South Road, Livingston, West Lothian EH54 6FF but the Company reserves the right to change this to any place within 30 miles of this office.

It is anticipated that the role will involve a blended model of office and home working.

Travel throughout Scotland may be required and as this is a partnership project with the University of Edinburgh, meetings may be held at Edinburgh Climate Change Institute.

This flexible approach will be agreed between employee and line manager. Attendance will be required, in person, at quarterly meetings either in the Livingston office or at another suitable venue. Expenses will be agreed on a case-by-case basis.

Duration: 31 March 2027 (with likely extension beyond this date subject to funding)

Hours: 18 hours a week

Closing date: 14 June 2026

Interview Date

A competence-based interview will take place in-person on 30 June or 1 July 2026 at West Lothian Council Civic Centre, Howden Road South, Livingston, EH54 6FF (shortlisted candidates will be advised by email in advance of the interview).

For more information about competency-based interviews, see our 'Guide to Competency-based Interviews'.

Additionally, you may also find it beneficial to watch our Working at the Improvement Service Video. and read our current Business Plan 2025-26.

Background

The Improvement Service (IS) is a publicly funded company limited by guarantee, with a total annual budget in the region of £12 Million. We exist to support councils and their partners to improve the health, quality of life and opportunities of all Scottish people through community leadership, strong local governance and the delivery of high quality, efficient local services.

Working for the IS means joining a team of professionals, who work together to strive for continuous improvement in the public sector and ultimately, better outcomes for Scotland’s communities.

Our company headquarters are based in West Lothian, located conveniently for commuters between Edinburgh and Glasgow. Pay is only one of the benefits of working for the IS, our terms and conditions are progressive and flexible and employees are rewarded with a generous annual leave entitlement of forty one days per year as well as a flexible working policy.

The IS is committed to promoting equality and diversity in all its activities to promote inclusive processes, practices and culture.

The IS is a Disability Confidence Committed Employer. We are committed to interviewing anyone with a disability who meets the essential criteria.