Analytical Chemist (Higher Radiation Protection Scientist)

Job summary

We are looking to recruit either a trainee radiochemist at radiation protection scientist (EO) grade or an experienced radiochemist at higher radiation protection scientist (HEO) grade. For those without experience in radiochemistry, a strong background in science and laboratory skills will be sufficient as we will provide full support through a structured training programme to reach HEO grade.

The Radiation Hazards and Emergencies Department (RHED) leads UKHSA’s emergency response and preparedness function in case of radiation and nuclear emergencies. It also provides advice and support to external organisations and central Government on issues surrounding emergency response and countermeasures to be taken.

The Radiochemistry Group (RG) has a primary role to provide analytical measurements of environmental and biological samples to support emergency response advice, as well as providing commercial services to a broad range of customers. The work is performed under accredited systems (ISO 17025, ISO 14001).

Working for your organisation

We pride ourselves as being an employer of choice, where Everyone Matters promoting equality of opportunity to actively encourage applications from everyone, including groups currently underrepresented in our workforce.

UKHSA ethos is to be an inclusive organisation for all our staff and stakeholders. To create, nurture and sustain an inclusive culture, where differences drive innovative solutions to meet the needs of our workforce and wider communities. We do this through celebrating and protecting differences by removing barriers and promoting equity and equality of opportunity for all.

Please visit our careers site for more information https://gov.uk/ukhsa/careers

Job description

Key Responsibilities

• Undertake radiochemical analysis and/or instrumental analysis in support of current commercial contracts
• Project Manage defined programmes, or provide Deputy Project Manager support, for larger contracts. Manage defined areas of development projects within RG, Liaise with Team/Group Leaders and customers on the progress of these projects
• Prepare customer reports and communicate results to customers
• Contribute to development of testing protocols for both commercial and emergency samples
• Undertake other duties in support of UKHSA Glasgow’s emergency response preparedness and commercial activities (e.g. environmental sample collection).
• Work with senior analysts to prepare new analytical protocols. Contribute to the accreditation process and staff training for new procedures as required
• Manage other staff within the team, if required.
• Ensure their work satisfies all applicable QA requirements
• Undertake broader corporate tasks as directed by the Group Leader and/or Head of Department

The postholders will develop working relationships and communicate regularly with a wide range of individuals, internal and external to UKHSA. This will include:

Internal

• Line Manager (daily)
• Team Leader (daily)
• Group Leader (weekly)
• Administrative staff (weekly)
• Wider UKHSA staff (as required)

External

• Customers (weekly)
• Sample Suppliers (weekly)
• Instrument manufacturers (weekly)

Main Duties

Note: These reflect the expectations for an experienced radiochemist. For those recruited as trainee radiochemists the on-the-job training is matched to these core duties and responsibilities.

• The postholder will be responsible for undertaking laboratory-based analysis and/or instrumental analysis on environmental and industrial samples in support of RG’s commercial contracts
• They will be assisting Project Managers either by leading on managing defined areas of large monitoring programmes or providing support as Deputy Project Manager for large commercial contracts, as directed by the Group Leader
• The postholder will also contribute to the development of new analytical protocols or other developmental work in support of RG’s primary roles, undertaking developmental analysis under the direction of the project lead, introducing new working procedures and preparation of validation reports
• The postholder will be a Line Manager for some staff within the Team, if deemed necessary by the RG Group Leaders
• The postholder may also be asked to undertake more general corporate duties, in areas such as safety management, environmental management or radioactivity management

Please note this list is not exhaustive.

Person specification

Essential Criteria

• Graduate level in chemistry or a related discipline
• Good experience in either chemical and/or radiochemical analysis, or instrumental analysis
• Experience of working in a strong quality-focussed environment
• Good MS Office skills, the ability to produce clear well-structured written material, and excellent communication skills (written and verbal)
• Ability to multitask whilst keeping to agreed deadlines, often working under pressure with competing priorities
• An understanding of and commitment to equality of opportunity and good working relationships.
• Current UK driving licence (or equivalent) and availability to work away from base occasionally

Desirable criteria

• Experience in contributing to development or application projects
• Good problem-solving skills and adaptability to rapidly changing demands

Benefits

Alongside your salary of £28,547, UK Health Security Agency contributes £8,270 towards you being a member of the Civil Service Defined Benefit Pension scheme. Find out what benefits a Civil Service Pension provides (opens in a new window).

• Learning and development tailored to your role
• An environment with flexible working options
• A culture encouraging inclusion and diversity
• A Civil Service pension with an employer contribution of 28.97%

Things you need to know

Artificial intelligence

Artificial intelligence can be a useful tool to support your application, however, all examples and statements provided must be truthful, factually accurate and taken directly from your own experience. Where plagiarism has been identified (presenting the ideas and experiences of others, or generated by artificial intelligence, as your own) applications may be withdrawn and internal candidates may be subject to disciplinary action. Please see our candidate guidance (opens in a new window) for more information on appropriate and inappropriate use.

Selection process details

This vacancy is using Success Profiles and will assess your Behaviours, Strengths, Technical skills.

Stage 1: Application & Sift

Success Profiles - GOV.UK

You will be required to complete an application form. You will be assessed on the listed 7 essential criteria, and this will be in the form of a:

• Application form (‘Employer/ Activity history’ section on the application)
• 1250 word supporting statem