Scientist Analytical Chemistry and Biological Monitoring (Band 5/EO)

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is the independent regulator for work-related health and safety in Great Britain. Our mission is to protect people and places so that everyone can lead safer and healthier lives. We do this not only through inspections and investigations, but also by shaping industry practice, developing guidance and regulations, providing specialist scientific services, and producing research and evidence to support Great Britain in working well.

We are looking for two enthusiastic and motivated Scientists with skills in Analytical Chemistry to join the Exposure Measurement Team within HSE Science, Engineering & Analysis Divisions (SEAD) Health Exposure & Control (H‑EC) Group. This is an excellent opportunity to begin your scientific career.

The team delivers high‑quality analytical research and scientific services for colleagues across HSE as well as external customers. You will support analytical service work, investigative and forensic work through laboratory‑based analysis and contribute to projects that address existing and emerging workplace health risks. The H‑EC Group brings together a range of technical disciplines, and collaborative working is central to our success. You will work with colleagues across the group and the wider organisation, engaging with scientists, measurement specialists, policy teams and senior leaders.

The roles are ideal for individuals developing their practical experience at Band 5 level and involve a significant proportion of routine, hands‑on analytical work carried out under appropriate supervision.

The posts are based at HSEs Science & Research Centre in Buxton, Derbyshire, an internationally recognised facility employing scientific, medical and technical specialists across a 550‑acre site.

Working Pattern

Part‑time working is available for candidates able to commit to a minimum of 30 hours per week.

As the work involves significant site-based laboratory and practical activities, you will be required to work on site at Buxton for the majority of your time. Remote working may be possible for some tasks; however, the role cannot be carried out predominantly from home.

Travel

Occasional travel may be required for site visits, meetings or training. You will also have opportunities for professional development, including conferences, memberships and contributing to scientific publications and presentations.

As a Scientist in Analytical Chemistry at Band 5 (Executive Officer level), you will support the delivery of laboratory based analytical work that provide high‑quality chemical measurement data to support HSEs regulatory, forensic and investigative activities. This is a practical, hands on role, involving routine laboratory work with appropriate supervision and structured training, making it well‑suited to applicants who are developing their practical experience in analytical chemistry with an interest in method development and quality assurance.

As a Scientist in Biological Monitoring at Band 5 (Executive Officer level), you will support the delivery of a busy laboratory-based analytical service, analysing biological samples for chemical biomarkers as well as supporting research projects. This is a practical, hands-on role, involving routine laboratory work with appropriate supervision and structured training, making it well‑suited to applicants who are developing their practical experience in analytical chemistry with an interest in toxicology, toxicokinetics and metabolism.

Working under the guidance of senior scientists and the technical team lead, you will contribute to research projects that address emerging workplace health risks. You will apply and develop your expertise in techniques such as chromatography and spectrometry.

You will work to established quality, safety and operational standards, ensuring that all outputs are accurate and clear. The roles involve working collaboratively with colleagues across HSE and working as a team to contribute to national and international measurement standardisation activities.

These posts offer excellent opportunities to develop hands‑on analytical experience within an internationally recognised scientific organisation and contribute to work that supports health and safety across Great Britain.

Training will be provided and the role involves working under appropriate supervision, aligned to the post holder's experience and the responsibilities of a Band 5 (EO) scientific post.

Key responsibilities

Role 1 : Analytical Chemistry

As a Scientist in the field of Analytical Chemistry at HSE, your key responsibilities will include but will not be limited to:

• Following and working to established health, safety, quality and operational procedures, with attention to detail for ensuring accurate and compliant laboratory work.
• Delivering routine, hands-on analytical services, including production of test samples, to defined timescales and supporting routine laboratory and instrument maintenance.
• Applying analytical techniques such as chromatography and spectrometry to generate high‑quality measurement data.
• Supporting analytical projects, including method development, data processing and interpretation, under appropriate guidance.
• Handling environmental and hazardous samples within a controlled laboratory environment on a daily basis.
• Undertaking a significant proportion of routine, repeatable laboratory work, alongside opportunities to develop broader analytical skills.

Role 2: Biological Monitoring

As a Scientist in the field of Biological Monitoring at HSE, your key responsibilities will include but will not be limited to:

• Following and working to established health, safety, quality and operational procedures, with attention to detail for ensuring accurate and compliant laboratory work.
• Delivering routine, hands-on analytical services to defined timescales and supporting routine laboratory and instrument maintenance.
• Applying analytical techniques such as chromatography and spectrometry to generate high‑quality measurement data.
• Supporting analytical and exposure assessment projects, including method development, data processing and interpretation, under appropriate guidance.
• Handling biological samples and hazardous chemicals within a controlled laboratory environment on a daily basis.
• Undertaking a significant proportion of routine, repeatable laboratory work, alongside opportunities to develop broader analytical skills.

Both roles may involve:

• Occasional lone working.
• Occasional travelling for offsite work, visits, meetings and training.

The above two roles are available. Candidates may indicate a preference; however, appointment to a specific role cannot be guaranteed, as posts will be offered based on overall merit.

Essential Skills & Criteria

• Demonstrable practical experience independently applying laboratory‑based analytical chemistry techniques (e.g. gas chromatography, liquid chromatography, and/or mass spectrometry) to generate, analyse and interpret scientific data. This should be gained through work, higher education or structured training and include experience of method application, data analysis and ensuring data quality. Lead Criterion
• Ability to collate, manage, analyse and interpret scientific data, with appropriate attention to detail, quality and accuracy.
• Ability to identify technical solutions and contribute to the development of new or improved measurement approaches. The ability to troubleshoot instrument and method issues.
• Strong organisational skills for planning, scheduling and undertaking a varied workload with the ability to work on multiple projects at any one time, whilst ensuring delivery to time, cost and quality requirements.
• Good communication skills, using appropriate styles and methods for day-to-day team working and audiences at all levels.