Senior Scientist – Business Improvement and Assurance
Most people don’t think too much about how clean water reaches their taps. Or what happens to their wastewater.
But Scottish Water does. In fact, it’s all we think about.
Want to help? As a Senior Scientist in our Business Improvement and Assurance team in Dundee. You’ll be on the front lines of making sure Scotland’s drinking water is totally, dependably pure, whilst making sure the water we return to the environment doesn’t harm our beautiful rivers.
What you’ll be doing
As a Senior Scientist, you’ll support key initiatives for the Business Improvement and Assurance team. This includes the setup and maintenance of the Environmental Sensor Network (ESNET). ESNET measures a variety of water quality parameters - like temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, and more - in-situ, and in real time.
These sensors are set up at wastewater treatment sites across Scotland, giving our operations and process science teams deeper insights into how each site is performing and meeting compliance standards. You’ll play a critical role in supporting ESNET nationally, providing technical support and troubleshooting for the equipment, both on-site and remotely.
You’ll stay on top of the latest in field monitoring, testing out new equipment and support quality assurance initiatives – like setting up on-site chlorine and turbidity monitoring at water treatment works across Scotland. You’ll connect with internal and external stakeholders, like SEPA and DWQR, sharing technical updates, providing training, and giving presentations on these initiatives. You’ll be the go-to expert our teams and stakeholders rely on, offering clear, practical advice and insights when they need it.
Your commitment to safety is paramount. You’ll follow Scottish Water’s Health and Safety policies consistently, in full compliance with all relevant legislations, regulations and Scottish Water policies to protect yourself, your colleagues, and our customers.
Together, we’ll tackle environmental challenges head-on, driving toward our Beyond Net Zero ambition while proudly upholding our ISO 14001 certification.
What you’ll need
You’ll know analytical science inside-out, ideally backed with an HND or Degree level qualification in Biology, Chemistry, Applied Chemical Sciences, or another relevant scientific field.
You’ll have good knowledge of field-based analytical practices in relation to water and waste water testing. And, although it probably goes without saying, maintaining a safe and healthy workplace is your thing.
Ideally, you’ll have some experience working in an ISO 17025 or GLP-accredited analytical laboratory – or at least have a good handle on the standard.
You’ll be travelling throughout Scotland, so a full, clean driving licence is non-negotiable.
What you’ll get
While the work we do is important, we know it’s not the only thing that matters. That’s why we make sure you have everything you need to find a good work-life balance.
This is a full time (35 hours per week) role with some weekend working and standby requirements. But you’ll get plenty of time to recharge with 38 days of holiday every year (including public holidays). And you can even buy five more if you need a little extra time. You can also take time off to volunteer in your community.
When it comes to major life events we have family-friendly policies around adoption, maternity, and parental leave. And for the everyday? We embrace flexible working. For your future, there’s our pension (the ‘know-what-you’ll-get-when-you-retire’ kind), and life assurance.
As for some nice extras? You can expect an annual company bonus. Not to mention access to SW Splash – handy rewards that can save you money on holidays, bills, and shopping.
The not-so-small print
This role is a Grade 6. If you’re new to Scottish Water, you’ll join us on a starting salary of £33,560. Performance-driven pay progression would then allow you to move through the range to a maximum of £44,140.
Job offers at Scottish Water are conditional, and will be confirmed on completion of our pre-employment screening, e.g. referencing, criminal record checks, license checks, etc. These checks are conducted on our behalf by a third party. Don’t worry - we’ll ask your permission before starting these checks.
If you’re interested in this role – or know someone else who might be - we’ll be accepting applications until midnight on Sunday 23 February 2025.