Job Description
Would you like to be part of a team that shapes the way we manage the environmental impact of chemicals?
We are recruiting a scientist to join the Chemicals Assessment Unit (CAU). We evaluate the environmental hazard and risks posed by industrial and consumer chemicals. We provide scientific advice on chemicals to UK Government to deliver the best outcomes for the environment under the UK REACH Regulations and related legislation.
As a Chemicals Assessment Specialist, you will assess how to manage identified risks through the detailed evaluation of chemical use, environmental emission, and monitoring data. You will also consider the risks arising from alternatives to the chemical under assessment. You will use your expertise to review Applications for Authorisation to use substances of very high concern (SVHC), and the preparation of Restrictions and regulatory management options analysis (RMOA) documents.
(Please read the Additional Information Pack for further information about the role.)
We’re a dispersed team and work with a wide range of technical and project teams across the country. We use smart tools to stay connected and reduce travel, but some travel including overseas and overnight stays may be required.
In Environment and Business (E&B) we promote a positive, inclusive, and supportive culture where everyone feels valued.
You’ll have the option to have an inclusive incident management objective in your development plan, so we’ll support you to find an incident role to suit your needs and circumstances. Appropriate training will be given.
The team
You’ll join the Chemicals Assessment Unit. We’re part of the Environment and Business (E&B) Directorate which supports the Environment Agency by using evidence, expertise, and innovation to enhance and support delivery, influence policy, legislation, and secure resources. We steer the direction, set the priorities, and shape our organisation's approach to deliver environmental outcomes and better regulation.
Experience/skills Required
You will have a degree in chemistry, chemical engineering, environmental sciences or another appropriate scientific discipline, and maybe a post-graduate qualification. Industry experience is advantageous.
In your capability-based answers please demonstrate your:
1. Experience (e.g. from work in regulation, industry, or consultancy) that shows you have a good grasp of the principles of environmental risk assessment and management of chemicals.
2. Written and oral communication skills, adapting your communications for a range of audiences where appropriate.
3. Ability to analyse complex scientific and numerical data to extract the key information. Experience with exposure modelling is desirable.
4. Organisational skills, managing time to meet tight deadlines and prioritise workloads.
5. Ability to work effectively with people from a variety of backgrounds and cultures and actively encourage others to consider diversity issues in their work.
Please read the Additional Information Pack for more information. You’ll have a range of development opportunities and appropriate training will be provided.
Contact and additional information
We’re committed to having an inclusive workforce to reflect the communities we serve, so welcome applications from people with diverse backgrounds.
For more information about working for us, who to contact regarding these roles and how to apply please read the Candidate Pack and Additional Information Pack.
If you have any queries, or want to discuss the role, working patterns, base locations etc, please contact john.crosse@environment-agency.gov.uk.
Applications will be “blind” assessed using your answers to the competency questions.
Interviews will be held using MS Teams in February 2025.
If you consent to be recruited onto a reserve list, we’ll hold your details for 6 months and we may offer you an alternative post.
Competence 1
Scientific Knowledge
Description
Applies scientific knowledge to provide sound, science-based evidence to our internal and external customers.
Give an example of how you have applied your scientific expertise in a way that is relevant to the environmental risk assessment or management of chemicals, describing the level and type of your knowledge.
Competence 2
Data and Information Management
Description
Collects, analyses, interprets, records, manages, develops, and shares data, material, or information appropriately for a variety of purposes.
Give an example of when you have been responsible for producing and/or analysing data and information for reporting purposes.
Competence 3
Achieves Results
Description
Sets and delivers high work standards, demonstrates the drive to meet targets. Prioritises and organises tasks and resources to ensure timely achievement of results.
Tell us about a challenging piece of work or target that you have set for yourself or was set for you and the steps that you took to achieve it.
If you are applying from the Civil Service please note that the Environment Agency is not a part of HM Civil Service and you would not be a Crown Servant in the event of being appointed. Therefore, you will not be eligible for continuous service.
We are fully committed to having a diverse and inclusive workforce to reflect the communities we serve. We welcome flexible working patterns for all our vacancies, including job share, so please include clearly any information regarding your preferred working arrangements on your application.
We also have a Guaranteed Interview Policy to support those with a disability who are seeking employment. We have committed to guaranteeing an interview to anyone with a disability whose application meets the minimum criteria for the post.
The Environment Agency, as a Non-Departmental Public Body, is committed to providing value for money and utilises Central Government frameworks and contracts for all external recruitment needs.
#J-18808-Ljbffr