Lead (Pb) Scientist

Salary – Circa £41,000 per annum, dependent on skills and experience

Location – Office-based & home working within the Anglian Water Region

Contract – Permanent, 37 hours per week

Are you passionate about safeguarding public health and creating safe, lead-free environments for our customers? Would you like to join a new team focusing on supporting our commitment to be lead free by 2050? Would you enjoy a role that combines both reactive thinking and strategic planning?

To manage our lead free by 2050 commitment we will be recruiting for 3 lead Scientists to manage the daily demands of managing lead sample results, managing our current legal obligations and longer-term planning for the future. Day to day you’ll be responsible for the delivery of an effective and efficient service to customers, external stakeholders and internal teams. This will involve liaising with internal and external customers, UK Health Security Agency teams and Environmental Health Officers, both reactively and proactively.

The lead (Pb) Scientist will take a pivotal role in developing our long-term lead strategy. Anglian Water have made a commitment to be lead free by 2050. This involves the planning and replacement of over 500,000 lead communication pipes, prioritising and identifying the highest risk areas and those most vulnerable to the health impacts of drinking water from lead pipes. This will include the development of a “Lead in Schools” program, directly impacting the health and wellbeing of our community, students and teachers. This is an exciting opportunity to make a real difference by ensuring that all schools and nurseries in high-risk areas are protected from lead exposure in their water supply.

About the Role:

• Through reactive and proactive sampling and testing, you’ll identify high-risk areas, prioritise lead pipe replacements, and collaborate with local teams to keep our customers drinking water safe.
• Working closely with the Senior Strategy Scientist, the other lead Scientists and the broader team, you’ll help lead our commitment to water safety for our customers, including schools, providing scientific expertise to drive our mission forward.
• This role allows you to champion the health of young people and foster trust within our communities.

Key Responsibilities:

• Customer Support: Provide customers with scientific support on their lead sample results. Working with Engineering teams to ensure that any samples above the regulatory limit are promoted for pipe replacement on a risk-based approach.
• Develop and Manage the Lead in Schools Program: Design and implement a targeted program to sample and monitor water in schools and nurseries in high-risk areas, ensuring safe, lead-free drinking water for children and educators.
• Collaboration with Regulatory and Community Partners: Work closely with the Water Fittings Regulatory Team and local education leaders to manage the program and support schools with practical solutions.
• Risk Identification and Action Planning: Analyse sample data to identify schools and properties at higher risk for lead contamination, facilitating prompt interventions and prioritising pipe replacements. Identify areas of large-scale pipe replacement in our region for 2030 to 2050 and beyond.
• Data Collection and Analysis: Use data-driven insights to ensure informed decision-making and maintain robust records to support program effectiveness and develop the long term strategy.

What’s in it for You?

• As a valued employee, you’ll enjoy personal private healthcare.
• 26 days annual leave, increasing with service.
• Flexible working options.
• A competitive pension scheme with Anglian Water double-matching your contributions up to 6%.
• Bonus scheme.
• Flexible benefits to support your wellbeing and lifestyle.

What Does It Take to Be a Lead (Pb) Scientist?

• A degree in a relevant scientific field (or equivalent experience).
• Knowledge in operational science or public health.
• Proven project management skills.
• Excellent communication and customer service skills.

Why Anglian Water?

At Anglian Water, we are committed to the development and growth of our team, ensuring they have the knowledge and skills to make a real impact. We believe that by working together, we can make a significant difference for families, schools, and communities across our region.

Inclusion at Anglian Water: Join us and help create positive change. We’re dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment where everyone feels supported and empowered. Our workplace reflects the diversity of the communities we serve, and we’re committed to initiatives like the Social Mobility Pledge, Business in the Community’s Race at Work Charter, and more.

Closing Date: 22/06/2025

Interview Dates: TBC