Groundwater Technical Specialist - 27873

Are you looking for a new challenge? Are you passionate about protecting groundwater and want to do a job that inspires you and the people around you? If yes, then we have an exciting opportunity!

We need your help to develop new national groundwater monitoring networks: groundwater ecology, temperature, wetlands, quantity, and quality. In this role you will take a deep dive into the complexities of groundwater 3D conceptualisation and deliver effective monitoring programmes.

You will be part of the Natural Capital and Ecosystem Assessment (NCEA) science innovation and transformation programme and work collaboratively:

• within Environment Agency and external partners to implement the NCEA groundwater networks;
• to identify suitable new groundwater monitoring sites, combining desk-based assessment and site visit;
• to initiate and project manage the installation of groundwater sampling equipment, which may use consultancy, in-house expertise, or delivery through others;
• to deliver high quality, fit for purpose data and information to the public using our open data principles;

You’ll have a range of development opportunities and appropriate training will be provided.

You’ll have an inclusive incident management objective in your development plan, so we’ll support you to find an incident role to suit your needs and circumstances.

The post is part of the Groundwater, Hydrology and Contaminated Land team in Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. We are responsible for providing technical and scientific expertise to our field and flood forecasting teams, and to a wide range of external stakeholders, all to protect the quality and quantity of groundwater.

We are based in one of the offices listed above, with some home working, visits to other offices and occasional site work.

You’ll need the technical skills to:
• be an experienced groundwater monitoring specialist
• have practical experience in groundwater monitoring and fieldwork
• be able to conceptualise groundwater environments in three-dimensions.

You’ll also demonstrate your:
• ability to work effectively with people from a variety of backgrounds and cultures and actively encourage others to consider diversity issues in their work
• excellent project/programme management skills
• analytical and data skills
• influencing and communication skills
• interpersonal and team-working skills
• proactive, self-motivated attitude that delivers quality outcomes
• ability to combine your people skills, and curiosity to collaboratively solve problems and identify innovative solutions
• effective engagement and motivation skills to collaboratively resolve conflicts
• ability to work to tight deadlines, prioritise your own work, manage projects and deliver effective outcomes

Ideally, you’ll be Chartered with an appropriate professional body, though this is not essential.

We promote an inclusive culture and welcome applications from people with diverse backgrounds. Flexible / hybrid working, is available in line with current Environment Agency policies. We offer a fantastic benefits package including an attractive salary, 27 days annual leave, and an award-winning Pension Fund.

For more information about the role and how to apply please read the Candidate Pack and/or contact Jason Lees (jason.lees@environment-agency.gov.uk) on 02030 25 2266.

Interviews, via remote technology will take place week commencing 20/11/2023.

A reserve list will be held for this role.

Capability Dictionary: https://en.calameo.com/read/004433680aab41adf893b

Describe a time when you have successfully managed a project or programme. What were the key challenges you had to overcome and how did you overcome them?

Please consider the following when answering the question:
Selects, plans and manages contractors, programmes or events to achieve a set of Environment Agency objectives cost-effectively.

Describe a situation where you had to apply your scientific knowledge to design and implement a groundwater monitoring programme. What were the objectives, methods and outcomes of the programme? How did you ensure the quality and reliability of the data collected? What challenges did you face and how did you overcome them?

Please consider the following when answering the question:
Applies scientific knowledge (various disciplines, depending on team role) to provide sound, science-based evidence to our internal and external customers.

Describe a time when you have presented a case in a convincing and attractive way to win people over, encouraging them to follow plans willingly. What was the outcome?

Please consider the following when answering the question:
Presenting a case in a convincing and attractive way that will win people over, encouraging them to follow plans willingly; often succeeding where logic and reason alone would fail.

Describe a time when you have worked collaboratively with other people/teams to deliver results on time, to required standards and in line with organisational processes and procedures. What was the outcome?

Please consider the following when answering the question:
Harnesses the team to deliver results on time, to required standards and in line with organisational processes and procedures.

Driving license.