At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to analyse water quality and protect Scotland's environment.
- Company: Scottish Water, dedicated to ensuring clean drinking water for all.
- Benefits: 38 days holiday, flexible working, family-friendly policies, and an annual bonus.
- Other info: Full-time role with opportunities for community volunteering and career progression.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on public health and the environment through science.
- Qualifications: HND or degree in Chemistry, with a passion for scientific analysis.
The predicted salary is between 33951 - 39911 € per year.
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?
As a Scientist within our busy Inorganics Wing in Edinburgh, you’ll be on the front lines of making sure Scotland’s drinking water is high quality and great tasting, all while protecting our environment by checking our wastewater.
What you’ll be doing:
Clean water doesn’t just happen. Our team of 320 samplers, scientists and support staff are hard at work, analysing their way through an average of one test every minute. With so many tests going through the lab, you’ll prioritise work within your team. And you’ll manage routine maintenance of instrumentation to help avoid unplanned downtime. Day-to-day, you’ll be analysing metals in waters and wastewater using ICPMS and ICPOES to help ensure the quality of Scotland’s Water and environment. Then 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 goal? 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 chemical testing and analysis inside-out, ideally backed up by a HND or degree-level qualification in a Chemistry related scientific 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 £33,951. Performance-driven pay progression would then allow you to move through the range to a maximum of £39,911. (Pro-rata) The laboratory provides analytical services from 7.00 am to 7.00 pm with weekend working and standby requirements. All new Scottish Water employees are required to complete pre-employment security checks before they can start work. If you’re interested in this role – or know someone else who might be - we’ll be accepting applications until midnight on Friday 29th May.
Scientist employer: Scottish Water
Scottish Water is an exceptional employer that prioritises both the quality of Scotland's water and the well-being of its employees. With a strong commitment to work-life balance, generous holiday allowances, and family-friendly policies, we foster a supportive work culture that encourages professional growth and community involvement. Join us in Edinburgh, where your passion for science can make a meaningful impact while enjoying flexible working arrangements and attractive benefits.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Scientist
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at Scottish Water on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral, which can really boost your chances.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on ISO 17025 standards. We know it’s a big deal in this role, so being able to discuss it confidently will show you’re serious about the position.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your passion for science! During interviews, share specific examples of how you’ve tackled challenges in chemical testing or analysis. This will help us see your commitment to quality and safety.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step.
We think you need these skills to ace Scientist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Science:Let us see your love for science shine through in your application! Share specific examples of your experience with chemical testing and analysis, and how it relates to the role of a Scientist at Scottish Water.
Highlight Relevant Experience:If you've worked in an ISO 17025 or GLP-accredited lab, make sure to mention it! We want to know how your background aligns with our standards and how you can contribute to maintaining high-quality water.
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application. Tailor your CV and cover letter to reflect the job description. Use keywords from the posting to show that you understand what we’re looking for in a Scientist.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands and shows us you’re serious about joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Scottish Water
✨Know Your Science
Brush up on your knowledge of chemical testing and analysis, especially in relation to metals in water and wastewater. Be prepared to discuss your experience with ICPMS and ICPOES, as well as any familiarity you have with ISO 17025 standards.
✨Show Your Passion for Quality
Demonstrate your commitment to maintaining high-quality standards in your work. Share examples of how you've ensured compliance with health and safety regulations in previous roles, and express your dedication to delivering great customer service.
✨Prepare for Practical Scenarios
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to prioritise tasks in a busy lab environment. Think of specific situations where you had to manage multiple tests or maintain instrumentation to avoid downtime, and be ready to share those experiences.
✨Emphasise Teamwork and Communication
Highlight your ability to work collaboratively within a team. Discuss how you’ve communicated results effectively to customers or colleagues in the past, and how you can contribute to a positive team dynamic at Scottish Water.
