Overview

Senior Social Science and Evaluation Consultant (1126173) – Hybrid role. You will lead high-impact projects that inform policy and practice across the agricultural and environmental sectors, working with UK Government departments, public agencies and private sector clients. Apply advanced social science and evaluation methodologies to deliver evidence-based insights. The role combines technical leadership, strategic client engagement, and mentoring of junior colleagues to support environmental stewardship and sustainable agricultural systems.

Responsibilities

• Technical Leadership and Delivery
• Strategic Business Development
• Project and Contract Management
• People Development & Mentoring
• Cross-Group Collaboration

Essential Criteria

• Postgraduate degree (Master’s or PhD) in a relevant social science discipline (e.g., sociology, political science, economics, public policy, psychology).
• Minimum 5 years of experience in applied social research and evaluation, ideally in a consultancy, academic, or policy environment.
• Strong expertise in qualitative and/or quantitative research methods, including survey design, statistical analysis, interviews, focus groups, and theory-based evaluation approaches.
• Proven ability to manage complex projects, budgets, and teams to deliver high-quality outputs on time and within budget.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to translate complex findings into actionable insights and easy-to-read formats.
• Experience working directly with clients or funders, including government departments, NGOs, or international organisations.
• Strong understanding of research ethics and commitment to inclusive, participatory, and ethical research practices.

Desirable Criteria

• Experience working in the land, agriculture, food, energy or environment sectors.
• Proficiency in data analysis software (e.g., NVivo, R, SPSS, Stata).
• Publication record in peer-reviewed journals or policy outlets.
• Strong leadership and mentoring capabilities.
• Demonstrated success in business development and client engagement.
• A passion for delivering work that drives social, environmental and economic impact.

Salary and Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience
• Flexible and Hybrid working arrangements
• Life assurance
• A flexible benefits programme including the option to buy additional holidays, health cash plan and discounted gym membership
• We encourage Continuing Professional Development and support Chartership to relevant professional bodies.
• Volunteer days allowing staff to support local good causes and environmental activities

RSK Group is an Equal Opportunities Employer.

About Us

ADAS is the UK’s largest independent environmental and agricultural consultancy. Our goal is two-fold: secure British food and enhance the environment. Established over 75 years ago and part of RSK Group since 2016, we offer high-quality, research-based tailored solutions for a wide-ranging client base. We work with landowners and shape government policy with Defra, collecting and analysing data to create bespoke strategies for our clients. We provide ecology, arboriculture, archaeology, planning, and landscape services to clients across multiple sectors. Our technical specialists support utility, transport, infrastructure, government and development projects. We are part of the RSK Group, a leading environmental and technical services business founded in 1989.

RSK operates as a group of complementary businesses focused on growth through diversification. We hire, develop and reward talent, and are committed to an inclusive workplace that welcomes individuals from all backgrounds. We support flexible working arrangements where possible and encourage applications from candidates of all genders, races, ethnicities, ages, neurotypes, religions or beliefs, sexual orientations, and those with disabilities.

If you’re passionate about making a difference, join us to build a brighter, more equitable, and sustainable future.

Documents

Inclusive Recruitment Guide for Candidates – Download

Senior Social Science and Evaluation Consultant Job Description.pdf – Download