Be among the first 25 applicants.
Job Description
PFAS, or forever chemicals, are a serious concern for both the environment and human health worldwide. These chemicals will likely stay high on the political, public, and regulatory agenda for several decades or more. The Environment Agency has been stepping up to this challenge, developing an ambitious programme of science, investigations, and regulatory initiatives which we continue to build on.
We need someone to help lead the EA’s overall work on PFAS. Working with a cross-cutting group of experts from our strategy, science, and operational teams, this role is for a technical leader. You will focus on translating science and evidence into actions to reduce PFAS's impact on the environment and human health.
You’ll work with scientists and monitoring experts to ensure the EA has the best available evidence. You will oversee various projects, collaborating with project managers and industrial sector leads to ensure quality outcomes.
You will represent us with external partners, including Defra and other regulatory bodies, ensuring government policy is informed by our science and evidence. You will also engage with international partners to stay linked into global PFAS developments in science and regulation.
You’ll contribute to developing relevant training materials for our staff and help raise the profile of our PFAS work. You will advise on media and stakeholder engagement, including responding to formal information requests.
This is a complex and challenging role that will raise your profile and stretch your skills.
We are committed to an inclusive workforce reflecting the communities we serve. Flexible working patterns are welcomed for all vacancies.
The team
This vacancy is within the Chemicals Regulatory Development team in the EA’s Chemicals Programme, part of the Environment & Business Directorate. The team has diverse experience across sectors like waste, water, and product compliance. We collaborate and integrate our work, delivering PFAS initiatives through partnerships.
Experience/skills Required
An excellent understanding of chemical pollutant impacts on the environment is essential, with breadth and depth of knowledge on PFAS. A background in chemistry or ecotoxicology is desirable but not required. The ability to learn quickly and guide others is crucial, given the rapid development of PFAS science.
You should be a technical leader capable of overseeing multiple work areas, delegating effectively, and inspiring others. Strategic thinking, flexibility, and strong communication and organizational skills are necessary.
Contact and additional information
This is a 12-month assignment to cover maternity leave. You can be based at any EA office with a hybrid working approach. Some travel and overnight stays will be required (typically monthly).
Please read the Candidate / Additional Information Pack. For queries, contact matt.womersley@environment-agency.gov.uk. Applications are assessed blindly via competency questions, with interviews via MS Teams. We may hold your details for 6 months if you are on a reserve list.
Contract details
Up to 12 months.
Competencies
* Scientific Knowledge: Apply scientific knowledge to provide evidence-based advice. Question: What are the biggest challenges in managing chemicals like PFAS in the environment? How will your experience help?
* Communicates Effectively: Convey complex messages clearly to decision-makers. Question: Describe a time you communicated a complex message and the outcome.
* Customer and Partner Relations: Collaborate with stakeholders to achieve environmental outcomes. Question: How have you established and maintained stakeholder relationships?
Note: The Environment Agency is not part of HM Civil Service. We support flexible and inclusive working arrangements, including job sharing and support for disabled applicants. For more info, visit the provided links.
#J-18808-Ljbffr