Job description
Scientific Officer in Fresh Water Fisheries MINNOW project
Location: Newforge Lane
Hours: Full-time, 37 hours per week (variable due to nature of the work, there may be overtime and unsociable hours including weekend work).
Pay Rate: £ per hour
About the Role
The Fisheries and Aquatic Ecosystems Branch (FAEB) of the Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI) plays a vital role in delivering research, monitoring, and innovation to support the sustainable management of fisheries and aquatic resources across Northern Ireland.
We are seeking a motivated and resilient Scientific Officer to support ongoing scientific programmes. This is a hands-on role combining fieldwork and laboratory-based responsibilities, ideal for candidates with a strong interest in environmental or aquatic science.
Key Duties & Responsibilities
You will assist with scientific sampling in lakes and rivers, as well as laboratory processing and data management. The role involves working outdoors in varied and sometimes challenging conditions, including on small boats, and may require occasional overtime, weekend work, and unsociable hours. Facilitating, monitoring, and managing the planned preventative maintenance (PPM) schedule and associated remedial works
1. Conduct scientific sampling of biological specimens, including fish and molluscs
2. Undertake water sampling in rivers and lakes
3. Maintain and prepare field sampling equipment
4. Accurately record field data and input into electronic systems
5. Prepare and process biological samples in the laboratory
6. Support general laboratory, field, and office duties as required
7. Collate and quality assure laboratory data
8. Assist in reporting results to support senior management and research outputs
Essential Criteria
Candidates must have (one of the following):
9. Option A:2 A-Levels (or equivalent), including at least one science subjectMinimum 2 years' experience planning and conducting fieldwork in environmental or aquatic science
10. Option B:5 GCSEs (A*-C), including Science, Maths, and English (or equivalent)Minimum 3 years' experience planning and conducting fieldwork in environmental or aquatic science
AND:
11. At least 1 year of experience in scientific data management, including use of spreadsheets, databases, and GIS
12. Strong understanding of data quality and adherence to sampling protocols
13. Full, current (or exchangeable) manual driving licence
Additional Information
14. The role involves manual handling and physically demanding outdoor work
15. Work may be conducted in adverse weather conditions
16. Travel across Northern Ireland will be required
17. Reasonable adjustments will be considered in line with the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA)