Operational Scientist

Operational Scientist

Department: Water Quality

Employment Type: Permanent - Full Time

Location: Douet House

Reporting To: Water Quality Manager

Description

The role of the Operational Scientist is a key role within Jersey Water with the main objectives being to establish and maintain high quality, safe, reliable and affordable water to our customers, whilst supporting the business on all current and future water quality, regulatory, operational and scientific matters.

You will carry out scientific investigations and analytical activities from source to tap providing clear recommendations from the work carried out and ensuring high standards of scientific practice, professional behaviour which align with Jersey Water's values of We Care, We Are Ambitious, and We Work Together.

Key Responsibilities

• Take and analyse investigative samples from source to tap.
• Complete water quality data and trend analysis, reporting, process monitoring and internal auditing from source to tap.
• Investigate the root causes of water quality issues, reporting and advising on corrective actions and optimisation opportunities.
• Assist with setting individual site operating plans and targets, carrying out risk assessments and chemical optimisation.
• Trouble-shooting the treatment works during incidents, ensuring lessons are learnt and corrective action management is adopted to prevent reoccurrence.
• Investigate network performance and quality issues.
• Complete catchment science assessments and investigations.
• Support the development and maintenance of Drinking Water Safety Plans from source to tap for specified area.
• Escalate water quality related hazards, risks and associated action plans within the business.
• Ensure new technologies and innovative techniques are investigated & promoted as appropriate.
• Support Sampling and Laboratory activities as required.

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise

• Degree in an appropriate scientific subject (normally chemistry, microbiology, environmental science or chemical engineering).
• In certain circumstances extended relevant experience will be considered as a suitable substitute for formal qualifications, provided appropriate competence can be fully demonstrated.
• Full, clean driving license (minimum Class B).
• Membership, or the ability to obtain membership, of an appropriate professional body at an appropriate membership grade such as Registered Scientist (RSci) or equivalent recognised by Jersey Water.
• Demonstrate attainment levels equivalent to Functional Skills Level 2 in English (equivalent to GCSE Grade 5)
• Demonstrate attainment levels equivalent to Functional Skills Level 2 in Mathematics (equivalent to GCSE Grade 5)
• Demonstrate attainment levels equivalent to either
  • Functional Skills Level 2 in Information & Communications Technology OR
  • the European Computer Driving License (ECDL) base modules (i) Computer Essentials; (ii) Online Essentials; (iii) Word Processing; and (iv) Spreadsheets

Evidence of the following competencies will be required:

• Application of knowledge and understanding
  • Applies knowledge in the context of new areas.
  • Analyses, interprets and evaluates information, concepts and ideas.
• Personal responsibility
  • Works autonomously while recognising limits.
  • Takes responsibility for safe working practices, contributing to their evaluation.
• Interpersonal skills
  • Demonstrates effective communication, interpersonal and behavioural skills.
  • Demonstrates productive working relationships and an ability to resolve problems.
  • Manages self in a way that promotes a harmonious and positive working environment.
  • Raises concerns discreetly to the correct person.
• Professional practice
  • Identifies, reviews and selects techniques, procedures and methods.
  • Contributes to continuous performance improvement.
• Professionalism
  • Maintains and enhances competence.

Benefits

After completion of the probation period:

• Pension - Membership of the defined contribution scheme. Jersey Water pays 5% up to 5 years' service and then 10%, employees pay 5%. A matching scheme is available whereby Jersey Water matches additional voluntary contributions up to a maximum of 5%.
• Death in Service - 4 times salary
• Private health scheme - Non contributory

On the non-financial front, we provide a friendly, people focussed work environment with a stimulating and rewarding quality of work. We focus on continuous improvement and support those who wish to develop their skills and experience.