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- Tasks: Conduct field measurements and analyse data to protect Scotland's environment.
- Company: Join SEPA, a leader in environmental protection and innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, and personal development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on climate resilience while working outdoors.
- Qualifications: Knowledge of environmental processes and strong IT skills required.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive workplace that values diversity and wellbeing.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 £ per year.
We are recruiting for a part time (26.25 hours per week), Elgin based Assistant Scientist on a permanent basis. Your passion has never had a greater purpose. Here at SEPA, we’re connected by a passion that drives us to be purposeful in every action we take – to protect our environment. Through our expertise, we lead projects that make a difference for Scotland, and our workplaces are grounded in respect for that expertise.
The Assistant Scientist post is an entry level post in Field Science. With this post initially focusing on Hydrometry, you will be supported to work through the Hydrometry Learning Plan utilising a combination of formal training, shadowing and mentoring. As you gain more experience, you will be encouraged to grow and develop in the various Hydrometric Specialisms and potentially wider Field Science roles. At the start of your career, you can expect to spend an average of 80% of your time working outdoors. This can involve working in remote parts of Scotland and in all weathers, focusing on measuring flows and levels in rivers, lochs, groundwater and the sea. Given the geographically distributed nature of the monitoring network, candidates are required to hold a full UK driving license and have access to a vehicle.
Core tasks that you will be involved in include:
- Undertaking field measurements and associated maintenance of infrastructure
- Processing and analysis of data
- Working flexibility across other business units as required
- Communicating effectively with your colleagues, internal and external stakeholders
- Assisting with Climate Resilience activities and participating in an on call out of hours duty rota as required.
This is a highly important role within our Data, Evidence & Innovation portfolio, which means you’ll need:
- Knowledge of environmental processes (ideally hydrological processes)
- Relevant experience or qualification equivalent to a minimum of Scottish Highers, National Certificate or Scottish Credit and Qualification Framework Level 6-7
- Technical or Scientific professional experience (1 year)
- Experience of lone working outdoors and knowledge of health and safety / safe working practices
- This is a technical role and requires strong IT skills including experience of the Microsoft Office Suite.
Support that goes beyond the workplace includes:
- Hybrid and Flexible working opportunities
- Up to 35 days annual leave and 7 additional public holidays each year (pro rata)
- Paid time off to support your Wellbeing and enable you to Volunteer in your community
- Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS)
- Progressive Family Friendly policies
- Training & development to enable colleagues to improve their skills, competencies and knowledge to perform at their best.
SEPA is committed to promoting equality, diversity, and good relations in everything it does. We support flexible working arrangements to help you maintain a healthy balance between career and homelife. This includes working part time, reduced hours, job sharing, working remotely. We are proud to be a ‘Disability Confident’ employer and will work to identify and implement reasonable adjustments and equipment to support you in the role that you do.
If you have questions or need any assistance with the recruitment process please contact SEPA’s Recruitment Team at recruitment@sepa.org.uk.
Assistant Scientist in Elgin employer: Scottish Enterprise
Contact Detail:
Scottish Enterprise Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Scientist in Elgin
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research SEPA and its mission to protect the environment. This will help you tailor your conversations during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former employees on LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for landing the Assistant Scientist role. You never know who might give you a leg up!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions related to field science and hydrometry. Think about how your skills align with the role and be ready to share examples of your experience working outdoors and handling data.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining SEPA and contributing to their important work.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Scientist in Elgin
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your passion for the environment shine through! We want to see how your interests align with our mission at SEPA. Share any relevant experiences that highlight your commitment to protecting our planet.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Assistant Scientist role. Highlight your knowledge of environmental processes and any technical skills you have. We love seeing how your background fits into what we do, so don’t hold back!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon unless it’s relevant. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your qualifications and enthusiasm.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our values there.
How to prepare for a job interview at Scottish Enterprise
✨Know Your Hydrometry Basics
Brush up on your knowledge of hydrological processes and environmental science. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show your passion for the role and your understanding of the core responsibilities.
✨Showcase Your Outdoor Experience
Since this role involves a lot of outdoor work, be prepared to share any relevant experiences you have. Talk about your comfort with lone working in various weather conditions and how you prioritise health and safety in those situations.
✨Demonstrate Your IT Skills
Make sure to highlight your proficiency with the Microsoft Office Suite and any other technical skills you possess. Be ready to discuss how you've used these tools in previous roles or projects, especially in data processing and analysis.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions about the role and the organisation. This shows your genuine interest and helps you understand how you can contribute to SEPA's mission of protecting the environment while also growing in your career.
