Macra na Feirme is looking for an agricultural policy officer for its graduate programme.

Macra may be better known for organising social activities and events that focus on the personal development of its members, but it also represents the interests of young people who have a rural connection, in the development of relevant policies, programmes and services, and by lobbying on their behalf.

Much of the work in this role will be comprised of representing these interests.

The successful candidate will provide support to Macra’s national agricultural affairs committee, rural youth committee, young farmer development groups and young farmer members, among other responsibilities.

The agricultural policy officer will help work on rural development policy issues that arise.

This graduate programme will see the successful candidate get experience on big policy projects such as CAP 2020 and Brexit. This role provides the opportunity to engage with Irish and EU politicians and policy-makers on agricultural and rural development issues.

Not surprisingly, therefore, the role involves some overseas travel, especially to various European Union offices in Brussels. Knowledge and experience of Irish and/or European agricultural policy is considered an advantage when applying for this job.

Macra is looking for someone with a minimum of a Level 8 agricultural science degree or equivalent discipline, but public policy graduates with a passion for agriculture will also be considered. A minimum of a 2.1 degree is required.

If you’re interested, send a two-page CV along with a one-page application cover letter addressed to the chief executive by email, to tcooke@macra.ie, not later than noon on Monday 28 August. Interviews will take place on 31 August to 1 September.