Assistant Scientist Apprenticeship - 14105

2
South West
Exeter
NLS Starcross Lab Exeter, EX6 8FD
Staff Grade 2
Apprenticeship
Full Time, Part Time/Job Share
Science, Analytical
£17,000 pro rata
This is an exciting and unique opportunity for any candidate that has a genuine interest in science looking to study for a level 3 apprenticeship and gain practical work experience in a laboratory.

You will learn how to:
• Prepare equipment and materials
• Make correct use of personal protective equipment and other safety equipment to comply fully with statutory and Environment Agency rules regarding health, safety and the environment and challenge any unsafe acts that are observed
• Analyse samples to ensure effective delivery of a high quality analytical service to defined time, cost and quality targets
• Contribute to the process of ensuring that all equipment and procedures comply with relevant COSHH, Health and Safety at Work and other legislation specific to the resources used in the area of work
• Ensure that analytical methods, standard operating and quality control procedures are complied with at all times so that Agency standards are met and United Kingdom Accreditation Services (UKAS) accreditation maintained

•Actively involve yourself and participate in team activities.

There is potential for this role to involve many repetitive tasks and can be physically demanding on a daily basis.
You will work across 4 teams on site. Microbiology, Metals, Organics and Inorganics during the apprenticeship. You will also spend time with customer service teams and various other onsite teams to learn the full analytical cycle of a water sample.
Experience of working in a laboratory environment is not essential as all training will be provided.
However, in addition to meeting the requirements for apprenticeship funding detailed in the Candidate Pack you must have:

A minimum of GCSE Maths & English at Grade C or 4 (or equivalent)

And be:
• genuinely interested in science
• a good communicator and team worker
• detailed conscious and accurate in your work
• quick to learn
• conscientious and reliable
• self-motivated and able to use your own initiative
The length of the contract will be 30 months, with 24 months of that at college one day a week.

The learning side of the apprenticeship will be at Petroc College in Tiverton, Devon.

The starting salary will be £17,000 rising to £18,889on completion of apprenticeship. The apprenticeship will be a Level 3 Laboratory Technician Standard which includes the BTEC Level 3 Applied science extended diploma. In addition you will achieve the Level 3 NVQ in laboratory and associated technical activities.

For specific information about what is included in the Apprenticeship please link in Candidate Pack

If you would like further information about the role please contact Andrew Welham. EMail: Andrew.welham@environment-agency.gov.uk.

28/01/2020, 23:55 hours

Basic Check
30 months
Manages Self
Description: Has full awareness of own strengths, weaknesses, impact and approach. Effectively organises self and takes personal responsibility for own role in the Environment Agency.

Please note your answer will be used for interview selection.

Attending college (normally one day per week) as and when required. Completing required coursework and assessments on time and to the desired standard (for the Level 3 Laboratory Technician Apprenticeship course).

Describe how you would handle the demands of working and studying at the same time to ensure you stay on track with both work objectives and University coursework?

You may find researching the STAR method beneficial in helping you frame responses.
Achieves Results
Description: Sets and delivers high work standards, demonstrates the drive to meet targets. Prioritises and organises tasks and resources to ensure timely achievement of results.

Please note your answer will be used for interview selection.

How would you ensure that you complete your work to the best of your ability?
You may wish to consider how you would:

• Allocate your time effectively
• Ensure your work is completed as thoroughly and accurately as possible
• What would you do push yourself to get the best results both at work and in your studies?

You may find researching the STAR method beneficial in helping you frame responses.
Applies Analytical Knowledge and Experience
Description: Applies acquired knowledge and experience to produce and interpret results from samples analysed in the chemistry/ microbiology laboratory.

Please note your answer will be used for interview selection.

What methods would you apply in order to compare newly gathered data to existing data, how would you report your findings?

You may find researching the STAR method beneficial in helping you frame responses.
If you are applying from the Civil Service please note that the Environment Agency is not a part of HM Civil Service and you would not be a Crown Servant in the event of being appointed. Therefore, you will not be eligible for continuous service. For applicants who currently work in local government or other bodies listed in the Redundancy Payments (Continuity of Employment in Local Government etc) (Modification) Order 1999, you may be eligible for continuous service for the purpose of calculating any future redundancy payment. If you are unsure of your status then you should contact your own HR Team.

We are fully committed to having a diverse and inclusive workforce to reflect the communities we serve. We welcome flexible working patterns for all our vacancies, including job share, so please include clearly any information regarding your preferred working arrangements on your application.

We also have a Guaranteed Interview Policy to support those with a disability who are seeking employment. We have committed to guaranteeing an interview to anyone with a disability whose application meets the minimum criteria for the post.

The Environment Agency, as a Non-Departmental Public Body, is committed to providing value for money and utilises Central Government frameworks and contracts for all external recruitment needs. For this reason, we are unable to engage with the market directly through post, email or phone calls . Should you wish to become a support supplier on one of these frameworks or contracts please visit https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/become-a-crown-commercial-service-supplier/becoming-a-supplier-through-the-crown-commercial-service-what-you-need-to-know for more information.

This Vacancy is closed to applications.