Evaluation Analyst, Prisons Directorate

Location

We welcome applications from candidates based across the UK. Candidates will have the option of being based in the Leeds or London HQ offices (with flexible working arrangements available) or your nearest Justice Collaboration Centre or Justice Satellite Office. Alternative locations may be available and will be discussed and agreed on the completion of background checks.

The Prisons Analysis Unit (PAU) is driving evidence‑based solutions that make prisons safer, smarter, and more effective. From forecasting prison capacity to improving operational efficiency, we tackle complex challenges with innovation, adaptability and collaboration at our core. Your work will help shape the evidence base on prison design and outcomes, influencing key decisions and supporting the department's objectives to deliver modern, effective prison places.

We are recruiting two senior analysts to join the Prison Estate Evaluation Programme, working across three teams focused on the evaluations of New Prisons, Houseblocks & Refurbishments, and Rapid Deployment Cells (RDCs) & Category D Expansion. Each role will primarily deliver a major evaluation while providing flexible support across the programme.

• Internally conducted evaluations
  • Shaping evaluation design and research questions
  • Conducting primary fieldwork in prisons
  • Analysing qualitative and quantitative data using tools such as NVivo and R
  • Producing and quality‑assuring outputs (reports, slide decks, infographics, etc.)
  • Disseminating findings, including publishing final evaluation reports
• Externally contracted evaluations
  • Procuring external contractors
  • Managing delivery against timelines and milestones
  • Providing analytical steer on design decisions
  • Reviewing and quality‑assuring contractor outputs

• Significant work experience evidencing use of data and/or analytical skills; time spent on an analytical PhD can count towards this.
• Knowledge and experience of using quantitative research and analytical skills to produce quantitative data and analysis as part of research/evaluation projects.
• Experience working on evaluation projects including conducting experimental or quasi‑experimental impact evaluations and/or economic evaluations and applying appropriate evaluation and analytical techniques.
• Experience in conducting social research including use of qualitative and quantitative research methods, tool development, fieldwork, and synthesising evidence from primary and secondary sources.
• Strong communication skills with experience working collaboratively with stakeholders, and tailoring analysis to meet different user needs.
• A proven ability to independently lead analytical projects in a fast‑paced environment.
• Desirable: knowledge and experience of coding in R, previous experience working across the criminal justice system.

• £42,914 – £46,182 (national salary range)
• £49,325 – £53,081 (London salary range)
• Specialist allowance: SEO London £500; SEO National £1,500.
• Annual leave: 25 days on appointment, increasing to 30 days after five years’ service; scheme to buy or sell up to three days leave each year.
• Additional paid time off for public holidays and one privilege day.
• Pension scheme: choice of pension schemes within the Civil Service.
• Training: extensive range of training and development opportunities.
• Networks: opportunity to join employee‑run networks for minority ethnic origin, disabilities, caring responsibilities, women and LGBTQ+ employees.
• Family friendly policies: flexible benefits, retail vouchers and discounts, childcare support, paid paternity, adoption and maternity leave, free annual sight tests for employees who use computer screens.

The Civil Service is committed to attracting, retaining and investing in talent wherever it is found. The MoJ is a Disability Confident employer and commits to providing reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process. Additional support is available for candidates with long‑term conditions or disabilities.

Roles are open to existing analysts from all professions (GORS/GSS/GSR) as well as other candidates who can demonstrate similar experience. Badging opportunities will be available once in post for those who wish to become GSS, GORS or GSR badged professionals. Applications should include a Statement of Suitability no more than 750 words, demonstrating how your skills and experience match the requirements.