Water Quality Risk Scientist
South Staffs Water is looking for a Water Quality Risk Scientist to join our team. The role involves analysing operational and water quality data to anticipate risks, drive compliance with industry regulations, and lead the development of key policies and risk assessments that safeguard public health.
Salary: Up to £34,700 per annum depending on experience.
Hours: 37 per week, plus standby duty.
Location: Walsall.
The Role
South Staffs Water are looking for a detail‑oriented and analytical scientist to help us ensure the highest standards of drinking water quality across our network. In this critical role, you’ll analyse operational and water quality data to anticipate risks, drive compliance with industry regulations, and support cross‑functional teams in identifying and mitigating emerging issues. You will also lead the development of key policies and risk assessments that shape business decisions and safeguard public health.
Key Responsibilities
* Analyse and interpret water quality and operational data to identify trends and early indicators of potential performance issues.
* Investigate water quality "near misses" and provide timely advice to operational teams to prevent failures.
* Support incident investigations and contribute to reports related to non‑compliance or poor performance.
* Provide technical guidance during the implementation of water quality‑related projects.
* Own, maintain, and develop water quality‑related policies, procedures, and documentation.
* Identify documentation gaps and ensure corrective actions are planned and implemented.
* Collaborate with the Water Regulations Manager to ensure regulatory documentation is compliant and up to date, particularly for DWI submissions.
* Produce specific water quality risk assessments to inform strategic business decisions.
* Liaise with stakeholders, including Drinking Water Safety Planning and Capital Delivery teams, to capture and communicate business risk.
* Integrate risk insights into planning processes to improve long‑term outcomes.
* Support the Water Treatment Manager with ad hoc and routine tasks, including cross‑departmental collaboration, water quality sampling, and data provision.
* Represent the department at internal meetings and contribute water quality expertise.
* Deliver training to operational and departmental colleagues as needed.
Essential
* Degree or HND in a scientific discipline (e.g., Environmental Science, Chemistry, Microbiology).
* Experience in an environmental or water‑related role.
* Strong understanding of risk assessment principles.
* Excellent data analysis and problem‑solving skills.
* Effective communicator across all levels of the organisation.
* Proficient in Microsoft Office and data systems.
* Full, valid driving licence.
Desirable
* Qualification in a water industry‑related discipline.
* Knowledge of water industry regulations and water quality standards.
* Experience of water treatment and distribution processes from source to tap.
What You’ll Get In Return
* A competitive salary up to £34,700 per annum depending on your experience.
* 25 days holiday (plus 8 bank holidays).
* Free 24/7 GP Service.
* Store discount for personal shopping needs.
* 24‑hour helpline providing free and confidential advice on financial, legal, marital, and health matters.
* Eyecare vouchers – via Specsavers.
* Employee Assistance Programme (EAP).
* Holiday buy‑back scheme (up to a maximum of 5 days).
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