Principal Scientist Flood Risk Research (Asset Management and Engineering) - 19288

1
National
Various
Various
Staff Grade 6
Permanent
Full Time, Part Time, Part Time/Job Share
Engineering, Science
£46,374
This job is an exciting opportunity to help deliver the Flood and Coastal Erosion Strategies of England and Wales by shaping and managing research that promotes innovation and informs future approaches to flooding and coastal change.

As part of a wider Flood and Coastal Erosion Risk Management (FCERM) research team your focus will be on asset management and engineering.

In this role you will:

1. Develop the strategic direction for research and define priorities by understanding customer requirements and through scientific gap analysis;
2. Initiate research, which may use consultancy, in house expertise, or delivery through others;
3. Have oversight of and support the research delivered by the team;
4. Work with customers and partners to develop priority research that underpins FCERM;
5. Help the FCERM community to apply research findings to improve outcomes; and
6. Influence externally funded research to meet customer needs.
The FCERM Research team sits within our National FCRM Directorate.

We work in collaboration with DEFRA, NRW and the Welsh Government to deliver a programme of Research and Development to inform FCERM strategy, policy and behaviours.

Many of the key tools and approaches that underpin FCERM have roots in the research programme including how we manage our assets, model flood risk, appraise investment, forecast flooding, understand the impacts of climate change and work with communities.
Strengths in building and sustaining collaborative relationships, seeking ways to align objectives, identify priorities and initiate research which improves what we do.

Essential:

• Knowledge or experience of flood engineering or asset management (eg in operations, maintenance, asset resilience, asset recovery, design, or construction);
• Able to work in an environment with high levels of uncertainty and change;
• Scoping, designing, and delivering successful projects;
• Communicating and influencing;
• Knowledge of research practices and approaches;
• Ability to solve problems, navigate the organisation and get things done;
• Steering the work of others (although not necessarily as a line manager);
• Work independently and as part of a team

Desirable:

• Knowledge of other research areas eg climate change, drainage or ecology;
• Chartered membership e.g ICE or CIWEM;
• Experience working with academia and research councils;
• Master’s degree or PhD relevant to Asset Management or Engineering research;
Prior to the pandemic this role was predominantly office based and required frequent travel and overnight stays. Although working practices have changed significantly, there may still be a need for travel and overnight stays in future. The flood research team is dispersed across the country, so you need to be self-motivating and excellent at working independently.

For further details please contact Eleanor Heron, Research Manager on 07887 822311 or by email: eleanor.heron@environment-agency.gov.uk.

For more information on the England and Wales Flood and Coastal Erosion Risk Management Research and Development Programme see our gov.uk webpages: https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/flood-and-coastal-erosion-risk-management-research-and-development-programme.

Interviews are scheduled for the beginning of November although alternative dates may be arranged if necessary.

You do not need to reapply for this role if you have previously.

03/10/2021, 23:55 hours

Basic Check
Scientific Knowledge
Competence definition:
Applies scientific knowledge in appropriate areas, to enhance the effectiveness of the Environment Agency.
Keeps up to date with scientific trends and techniques.
Commissions and delivers appropriate scientific research to underpin the work of the Environment Agency in protecting and enhancing the environment and promoting sustainability.
Represents the Environment Agency at appropriate scientific and other fora, conferences and events.
Develops and maintains science networks.

In your application, provide an example of how you have applied your scientific knowledge to a flood management problem
Communicates Effectively
Competence definition:
Is an active listener, has time for people; seeks their contribution.
Uses full range of communication methods to ensure effective understanding.
Considers needs of and impact on audience, anticipates reactions and uses appropriate communication method and style.
Prepares written reports and data in clear, readable and accurate manner, using appropriate grammar, syntax and style.
Ensures communication is two-way; responds and acts on feedback
When presenting is easily understood and inspires attention from an audience.
Is clear and to the point when speaking.
Anticipates the main issues and prepares responses.

In your application, provide an example of how you have successfully communicated a complicated subject to a group who have limited understanding of the issue.
Influences and Persuades Others
Competence definition:
Gathers relevant data, marshals facts and prepares sound arguments
Listens to other’s opinions, understanding their viewpoints, needs and concerns; responds appropriately; lobbies others in advance
Presents a credible case and explains the benefits to the audience/listener; anticipates the main objections/arguments
Responds to the needs and style of the listener when influencing.
Seeks to achieve a “win-win” outcome and develop the relationship with the person(s) being influenced.
Prepares convincing written arguments on complex issues, presenting information logically, concisely and persuasively.
Able to modify and reformulate case, read the listener’s mood and adjust accordingly
Plans and prepares influencing strategies for key players and opinion leaders.

In your application, provide an example of how you have successfully influenced an important outcome. What were the steps you took to ensure success?
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.