Closing Date 2026-05-01 Job Title: Senior Process Scientist Location: Flexible Contract Type: Permanent Hours: 37 Salary: From £39,000 based on skills and experience About the role: A Senior Process Scientist is responsible for monitoring and providing technical support to Wastewater Operations in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. This includes investigating, advising upon and implementing corrective actions to ensure wastewater compliance and the smooth running of plants and sites. You will have the opportunity to provide advice and assistance across the business on operation, optimisation and investment needs of existing and new assets impacting on wastewater quality and efficiency of treatment processes. A clean driver’s license and access to own vehicle is required. This role includes being part of a standby rota. This is a hybrid role balanced between office and site work. Accountabilities: Responsible for making decisions affecting plant and processes to improve operations at sites for which they are responsible, or to mitigate risks and issues. These are likely to be on issues which could have significant adverse impact on costs or the environment. To monitor and optimise the operation of the WTW and downstream assets to ensure that the quality of final effluent that enters the watercourse continues to meet all internal and statutory requirements Where appropriate, work closely with relevant departments regarding the optimisation and improvement of the Wastewater treatment processes, including Planning and Resilience, Construction and Operations Undertake regular site visits and make impactful decisions on process performance and take action to improve Taking personal responsibility for health and safety of self and colleagues Agrees very complex or impactful decisions with the Principal Process Scientist and senior managers when necessary Has collective accountability for effluent/product quality alongside other staff on site Will mentor, train and guide the work of new Process Scientist and ensure that their work is completed to the required standard Qualifications/Experience: Degree or higher in relevant scientific or engineering discipline A sound understanding of wastewater chemistry/biology/engineering and principles of wastewater treatment A sound understanding of regulatory requirements regarding WTW permit compliance Solve operational and technical issues which are complex and not clear cut Investigative skills including data analysis, process mapping and auditing The ability to summarise technical issues to non-technical audiences, communicate effectively and concisely (both written and verbally) with a wide range of stakeholders. Southern Water is at the forefront of transforming Britain’s water industry, investing significantly to enhance resilience, sustainability, and service excellence. With £7.8bn planned investment for 2025-30, this is an unparalleled opportunity to join a business committed to delivering a generational shift in the way water services are managed. You will be joining at a time of significant change, working alongside a highly skilled leadership team with a clear vision for the future. We offer an environment where senior professionals can make a meaningful impact, influence major strategic decisions, and drive long-term value creation "At Southern Water, we believe diverse perspectives drive innovation. If you’re passionate about making a positive impact and think you can bring value to our team, we’d love to hear from you—even if you don’t tick every box. Your unique skills and experiences could be exactly what we need." If this role isn’t quite what you’re looking for but are keen to be contacted about opportunities at Southern Water, you can register your details here: Introduce Yourself (myworkdaysite.com- Introduce Yourself) Our Commitment to Diversity We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, identities, and experiences. We do not discriminate based on race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, religion, or any other protected characteristic. If you need reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know. Additional information: In line with Southern Water’s security requirements, successful candidates will be required to provide evidence of their identity, eligibility to work in the UK, criminal record check (DBS) and verification of their employment and/or education history for the past three years. Appointment to this role is subject to the successful completion of all pre‑employment checks, including security vetting. Please note that if a candidate does not meet the required security standards or fails to pass the vetting process, Southern Water reserves the right to withdraw the offer of employment. Some positions may also require higher levels of security vetting, which may involve providing additional documentation.