Census Test Field Officers

Census Test Field Officers

ONS Census Test 2027

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) is conducting an important large-scale Census Test in 2027 which will help shape the design and delivery of Census 2031.

We’re working in partnership with the ONS to hire enthusiastic, community-minded Census Test Field Officers and Team Leaders. There are multiple positions available across six locations in England and Wales.

You will support local households and universities to take part in this important project in your area. No previous census experience is required. If you're confident speaking with people, enjoy working independently, and want to make a difference in your local community, we’d love to hear from you. The ONS will provide full training for all roles.

All candidates are required to meet the eligibility criteria for Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS). BPSS includes identity, right to work , employment history and criminal record checks, including unspent convictions.

#

Why join us?

This is a unique opportunity to:

- # play an important role in a nationally important project

- # help ensure everyone in your community has the opportunity to be counted and represented

- # gain valuable experience working with the UK's largest producer of official statistics

- # enjoy flexible working patterns that can fit around your existing commitments

- # receive comprehensive training and ongoing support

- # be part of an inclusive and innovative team making a real impact on public services of the future

#

These are field-based roles, and you will need to travel throughout your allocated area. You will be paid an hourly rate plus expenses in line with the ONS’ travel policy.

#

Census Test Field Team Leaders – Multiple roles available

You will lead and support a team of Census Test Field Officers, providing coaching, guidance and performance support while overseeing day-to-day field operations within your area.

- Start date: February 2027.
- Duration: Approximately eight weeks.
- Hours: Approximately 37 hours per week.
- Working times: Flexible between 8:00am and 8:00pm.
- Evening and weekend availability: At least 60% of working hours are expected to be during evenings and weekends.

Household locations: Newcastle upon Tyne, Cardiff, Monmouthshire, Breckland, North Norfolk and Westminster.

University locations : Newcastle upon Tyne and Cardiff

A driving license and access to a vehicle may be required in some operational areas.

Main responsibilities

- Leading, coaching and supporting Census Test Field Officers.
- Managing and motivating a team to achieve project objectives.
- Planning workloads, monitoring progress and performance against operational targets.
- Allocating and ensuring field activities are delivered in line with required standards for safety, security, and data quality.
- Providing guidance, coaching and support to team members.

Essential skills for Census Test Field Team Leaders

- Previous leadership, supervisory or coaching experience.
- Confidence using a laptop and smartphone, including various digital applications.
- Excellent organisational and planning abilities.
- The ability to manage competing priorities and meet deadlines.
- Self-discipline, self-motivation and confidence working without close supervision.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Resilience, adaptability and sound decision-making skills, especially when supporting a team in the field.
- A positive approach to supporting and motivating others.

#

Census Test Field Officers for households - Multiple roles available

Working directly within local communities, you will visit allocated addresses and encourage participation in the Census Test. You will also provide support where required and accurately record outcomes from your visits using a smartphone, which the ONS will provide. If required, you will direct households to available support.

#

- Start date: March 2027.
- Duration: Approximately five weeks.
- Hours: Approximately 25 hours per week.
- Working times: Flexible between 8:00am and 8:00pm.
- Evening and weekend availability: At least 60% of working hours are expected to be during evenings and weekends.

Household locations : Newcastle upon Tyne, Cardiff, Monmouthshire, Breckland, North Norfolk and Westminster.

A driving license and access to a vehicle may be required in some operational areas.

Census Test Field Officers for universities - Multiple roles available

You will be working in and around university halls of residence, visiting selected student accommodation, attending events and encouraging students to complete the Census Test.

- Start date: February 2027.
- Duration: Approximately four weeks.
- Hours: Approximately 25 hours per week.
- Working times: Flexible between 8:00am and 8:00pm.
- Evening and weekend availability: At least 60% of working hours are expected to be during evenings and weekends.

University locations: Newcastle upon Tyne and Cardiff.

Essential Skills for Census Test Field Officers

- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- A friendly, approachable and professional manner.
- The confidence to engage with a wide range of people.
- Confidence using a smartphone and mobile applications.
- Strong organisational skills and the ability to work independently.
- Self-motivation and reliability.
- Problem-solving skills and resilience when working in the field.

Student Participation Co-Ordinators

You will be working in and around university halls of residence, visiting selected student accommodation, and supporting the delivery of high impact student participation events. Using creativity and initiative, you will connect with students living in halls of residence through direct engagement activities. Working alongside Census Test teams at events arranged by the university or the ONS, you will encourage and signpost students, turning engagement into participation. These roles focus on making things happen proactively, building momentum and helping students overcome barriers to completion.

Student participation events include small pop-up events and larger events with other Census Test staff, supported by banners, posters and flyers attracting students to interact.

- Start date: February 2027.
- Duration: Approximately four weeks.
- Hours: Approximately 37 hours per week.
- Working times: Flexible between 8:00am and 8:00pm.
- Evening and weekend availability: At least 60% of working hours are expected to be during evenings and weekends.

University locations: Newcastle upon Tyne and Cardiff.

Become part of a team helping deliver Census Test 2027 and contribute to the future development of census operations across England and Wales.