Access Service Community Outreach Officer

The successful candidate will work across all MTU Campuses and can be based either in the Cork or Kerry Campus. MTU Access is committed to widening participation, increasing access and supporting positive educational outcomes for under-represented groups. MTU Access is strongly committed to providing a high quality, professional and student-centred service. This is achieved by a strong commitment to the principles of social inclusion and by working locally, regionally and nationally in partnership with key stakeholders. MTU Access provides a range of supports for student groups who are under-represented at third level. The Access Services supports: students with disabilities, mature students, Further Education award holders, students who experience socio-economic disadvantage and members of minority ethnic groups. MTU Access provides a wide range of pre-entry, entry and post-entry supports that facilitate access and enhance the academic experience and learning outcomes of the students who engage with the Service. Supports include: personal; academic; and financial supports. MTU wishes to appoint a Community Outreach Officer to research and carry out a learner needs analysis with access priority groups, on campus and in the community, namely, Roma communities, ethnic minorities and Direct Provision Centres in Cork and Kerry. Location, level and relationship within management structure: The appointee will report to the MTU Head of Access & Disability or nominee. This line management arrangement may be amended as MTUs organisational structure evolves over time. Please note that the post holder will be required to travel between MTU campus locations on a regular basis. Duties will include: Enabling the creation of inclusive environments and promoting access to higher education Belonging (PATH 4 Objective) Engagement with communities to identify learning needs, so that targeted, bespoke supports can be incorporated into future access initiatives. Research into the most appropriate, pre-entry access and transition supports, inclusive teaching, learning and assessment for access priority groups. Data collection, analysis, evaluation and report writing. To liaise and collaborate with statutory and voluntary agencies which provide supports and educational opportunities to under-represented groups. To promote awareness of the challenges and issues facing Access students and the needs of students with diverse backgrounds. To liaise and collaborate with academic and professional, management and support staff to support students through their educational journey in MTU. To represent the University on Access issues at external meetings. To cooperate with University management and other relevant stakeholders in the design and provision of services and supports for Access students. To undertake other relevant duties from time to time as directed by the MTU Head of Access & Disability or nominee. The successful candidate will have qualifications and experience as follows: Essential: Have obtained at least Grade D3 (H6/O6) in five subjects in the Leaving Certificate Examination (higher, ordinary, applied or vocational programmes) or equivalent OR have passed an examination at the appropriate level within the QQI qualifications framework which can be assessed as being of a comparable to Leaving Certificate standard or equivalent or higher OR have appropriate relevant experience which encompasses equivalent skills and expertise. A satisfactory understanding of the overall workings and policies of the University. A good understanding of Access issues and a commitment to social inclusion and equity of access and participation. A good knowledge of research methods. Ability to work effectively and independently on own initiative and in a team environment with commitment to personal and professional development. Ability to work confidently and with sound judgement. Proficiency in the use of information and communication technologies including the Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Word, Outlook, Excel and Teams. Excellent organisational skills and the ability to manage a varied and demanding schedule of competing priorities within tight deadlines. Excellent communication skills, with the ability to communicate well orally, in writing, or via electronic means, as appropriate to audience requirements Important Notes: Screening and short-listing only takes place on the basis of information submitted on the application. In addition to the minimum criteria, it may be necessary to introduce further shortlisting criteria. Candidates should note that they may be called for more than one interview. Please ensure that full information is given on qualifications and that the information is accurate and corresponds to the original transcript of qualifications. Please ensure that those you nominate as referees are contacted by you and will be able to supply a reference without delay if requested. The University regrets that it cannot pay expenses for candidates attending interviews for this post or for taking up the position, if appointed. Applications received after the closing date will not be accepted. Appointments will be subject to Garda vetting. Application Process: Applications by MTU eRecruitment system only. Applications will not be accepted in any other format. Please log on for more information and to apply for this position. . The information given in this document is of a general information nature only and should not be taken as contractual. Closing date for receipt of completed applications is 1.00 pm on Friday, 19 December 2025. Munster Technological University is an equal opportunities employer Skills: Excellent Communication Skills Excellent Organizational Skills Good knowledge of research methods