Scientist – Microbiology or Chemistry

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? We’re looking for Scientists to join either our Microbiology or Inorganics teams in Edinburgh. You’ll be on the front lines of making sure Scotland’s water is totally, dependably pure. What you’ll be doing: Clean water doesn’t just happen. Our team of 300 samplers, scientists and support staff analyse their way through an average of one test every minute. With so many tests going through the lab, you’ll be prioritising work within your team and managing routine maintenance of instrumentation to keep everything running smoothly and avoid unplanned downtime. Day-to-day, you’ll carry out a variety of analytical tests, whether it’s supporting microbiological analysis or conducting inorganic chemical testing – all critical to delivering the highest standards for Scotland’s water. Once the results are in, you’ll help us translate the results for customers. Getting it right is important, so you’ll work to ISO 17025 (if you know, you know). Naturally, we’ve got a big focus on health and safety. The standard? 100% compliance with the strictest standards – many of them set out in law. What you’ll need: First of all, you love science. You know analytical testing inside-out, backed up by an HND or degree-level qualification in either Microbiology, Chemistry or a related discipline. 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. Beyond that, we hope that delivering great customer service is what gets you out of bed in the morning. And you’re committed to always improving processes. 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 will be a Grade 5. If you’re new to Scottish Water, you’ll join us on a starting salary of £29,800. Performance-driven pay progression would then allow you to move through the range to a maximum of £35,760. Shift patterns can vary depending on the team you join, but weekend working is part of the job. You’ll also be part of a standby rota to cover essential work outside of regular hours. 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. Closing date: 15 December 2024