Radiation Protection Scientist (Chilton)

We are recruiting primarily at Higher Executive Officer (HEO) level for a Radiochemistry/Radiation Protection Scientist role. Where candidates demonstrate strong potential but do not yet fully meet the HEO requirements, they may be considered for appointment at Executive Officer (EO) level.

Candidates appointed at EO level will be offered a structured training programme and support to develop the skills and experience required to progress to HEO grade.

Applicants without direct radiochemistry experience are encouraged to apply if they have a strong scientific background and relevant laboratory skills, as full training will be provided. Candidates with established radiochemistry expertise may be appointed directly at HEO level.

The Radiation Hazards and Emergencies Department (RHED) leads UKHSAs emergency response and preparedness function in case of radiation and nuclear emergencies. It also provides advice and support to external organisations and central Government on issues surrounding emergency response and countermeasures to be taken.

The Radiochemistry Group (RG) has a primary role to provide analytical measurements of environmental and biological samples to support emergency response advice, as well as providing commercial services to a broad range of customers. The work is performed under accredited systems (ISO 17025, ISO 14001).

Working for your organisation

The postholder will be responsible for undertaking laboratory-based analysis and/or instrumental analysis on environmental and industrial samples in support of RGs commercial contracts. They will be assisting Project Managers either by leading on managing defined areas of large monitoring programmes or providing support as Deputy Project Manager for large commercial contracts, as directed by the Group Leader. The postholder will also contribute to the development of new analytical protocols or other developmental work in support of RGs primary roles, undertaking developmental analysis under the direction of the project lead, introducing new working procedures and preparation of validation reports.

Where required, the postholder will act as a Line Manager for designated staff, as decided by the RG Group Leaders. The postholder may also be asked to undertake more general corporate duties, in areas such as safety management, environmental management or radioactivity management.

Note: These reflect the expectations for an experienced radiochemist (HEO). For those recruited as trainee radiochemists (EO) the on-the-job training is matched to these core duties and responsibilities. Successful candidates at EO would be assessed against the essential criteria listed, however they would not have sufficient experience of radiochemical techniques, working in a QA environment or supervising staff.

Key Responsibilities

• Undertake radiochemical analysis and/or instrumental analysis in support of current commercial contracts
• Project Manage defined programmes, or provide Deputy Project Manager support, for larger contracts. Manage defined areas of development projects within RG, Liaise with Team/Group Leaders and customers on the progress of these projects
• Prepare customer reports and communicate results to customers
• Contribute to development of testing protocols for both commercial and emergency samples
• Undertake other duties in support of UKHSAs emergency response preparedness and commercial activities (e.g. method development).
• Work with senior analysts to prepare new analytical protocols. Contribute to the accreditation process and staff training for new procedures as required
• Manage other staff within the team, if required.
• Ensure their work satisfies all applicable QA requirements
• Undertake broader corporate tasks as directed by the Team Leader, Group Leader and/or Head of Department

Essential Criteria

• Graduate level in chemistry or a related discipline
• Good experience in either chemical and/or radiochemical analysis, or instrumental analysis
• Experience of working in a strong quality-focussed environment
• Good MS Office skills
• Ability to produce clear well-structured written material
• Excellent communication skills (written and verbal)
• Ability to multitask whilst keeping to agreed deadlines, often working under pressure with competing priorities
• An understanding of and commitment to equality of opportunity and good working relationships.
• Current UK driving licence (or equivalent)
• Availability to work away from base occasionally

Desirable Criteria

• Experience in contributing to development or application projects
• Good problem-solving skills and adaptability to rapidly changing demands