Assistant Scientist (Chemistry)

SEPA are looking for assistant scientists with our science laboratory based in Eurocentral with a passion for the environment to join the Chemistry Department.

The department, which is within the Evidence and Flooding directorate, is responsible for the collection, analysis and interpretation of chemical evidence that helps shape environmental regulation and enforcement. You will join a diverse group of staff who are continually evolving to meet the ever-changing needs of the modern environment protection agency.

Initially the focus of the roles will be to support environmental monitoring and analysis in our chemistry function.

Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) is committed to protecting and improving the environment in a way that fosters social and economic success. The Chemistry function leads how SEPA understands and manages chemical risks in Scotland. The function has an overall budget of £8M and 130 staff. It comprises 4 Units, each with 2-3 teams. These teams must draw on support from colleagues across SEPA and our partners, and in turn provide support to SEPA delivering its regulatory and climate change duties.

Key responsibilities

• Collecting, preparing, and analysing environmental samples used to assess water quality using a range of scientific analytical techniques. This involves using standard analytical methods and quality procedures and reporting results onto our Laboratory Information system.
• Following standard methods and quality procedures; supporting the quality system in line with ISO:17025; and carrying out thorough investigations on quality control failures with a view to implement continual improvements.
• Maintaining, calibrating, and troubleshooting analytical and field equipment and liaising with instrument suppliers when required.
• Working in a team to ensure that the work within the function is delivered on time and to required quality.

Knowledge

• Knowledge of analytical chemical techniques and/or environmental monitoring. Including inorganic and organic chemistry techniques.
• Understanding of quality assurance in the lab and/or field environment.
• Understanding of the Health and Safety requirements relevant to the role

Skills & Experience

• Experience of effectively working in a team environment, demonstrating good interpersonal skills.
• Being organised and having good time management skills, including working to tight deadlines.
• Evidence of working flexibly and adapting to changing demands.
• Evidence of good verbal and written communication skills, appropriate to the role.
• Experience of producing and maintaining accurate laboratory or field records.

Closing date: 2 June 2024.

Salary: £30,075 - £32,148

Location: Glasgow