Equalities Researcher – Research & Policy Department

About the role

The Union of Shop, Distributive and Allied Workers (USDAW) is seeking an Equalities Researcher to join its Research and Policy Department at the Head Office in Salford Quays. The role is fully office‑based and supports Equalities Officers and senior officials with research, advice and policy analysis on political, employment and social issues.

Key responsibilities

• Provide research, information and advice to Equalities Officers and Union officials on a wide range of political, party‑political, employment and social matters.
• Analyse complex member queries, extract relevant information and prepare concise briefings for colleagues.
• Monitor fast‑moving developments in equalities legislation and policy, delivering timely updates.
• Assist in the preparation of reports, policy papers and briefing notes for internal and external stakeholders.
• Maintain a high‑quality support service, ensuring accurate and timely responses to enquiries.

Required profile

• A degree in a relevant discipline or equivalent experience in a research‑related role within the trade‑union or labour movement.
• Ability to quickly develop knowledge across diverse topics and respond to rapidly changing situations.
• Strong planning and organisational skills, with the capacity to anticipate others’ timescales and priorities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for liaising with officials, staff, members and employers.
• Sound judgement and the ability to recognise when to refer more complex queries.

Required skills

What we offer

• Flexitime with a 34‑hour week.
• Defined‑contribution pension scheme.
• Generous holiday entitlement – 24 days rising to 32 days plus bank holidays.
• Free onsite parking and Cycle to Work Scheme (subject to probation).
• Season Ticket Loan and free health assessments after probation.