Drinking Water Specialist

Role Overview

The Scottish Government's Drinking Water Quality Regulator (DWQR) seeks a technically skilled Drinking Water Specialist to join their Drinking Water Quality Regulation Team. This pivotal position focuses on safeguarding public health in Scotland through robust regulation and continuous enhancement of drinking water quality.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive technical inspections of Scottish Water facilities and operations, collaborating with all organizational levels to suggest improvements and document outcomes.
• Oversee and coordinate with Local Authorities regarding their responsibilities for private water supply management.
• Investigate and classify water quality incidents, providing detailed reports and initiating enforcement measures when necessary.
• Offer expert advice to support policy formulation and drinking water research, playing a leadership role in critical drinking water strategies.
• Serve as a respected, independent advisor on drinking water quality matters for Scottish ministers, industry stakeholders, and the public.
• Contribute to managing DWQR's public image, including administration of their website, handling correspondence, and engaging in media relations.

Qualifications and Eligibility

Applicants must hold a degree or equivalent qualification in relevant scientific or engineering fields such as biology, chemistry, biochemistry, medical microbiology, biomedical sciences, or engineering disciplines. Candidates should demonstrate commitment to pursuing professional chartership with accredited industry bodies (e.g., Chartered Scientist, Institute of Water). Additionally, a valid UK driving license is required due to limited public transportation access at job sites. Candidates should confirm these qualifications in their CV.

Experience

• Previous roles with similar responsibilities, ideally incorporating operational experience within the water industry or its supply chain, are essential.

Technical and Professional Expertise

• Proficient in applying knowledge to assess Scottish Water’s regulatory compliance.
• Skilled in thorough technical investigation to derive clear, defensible conclusions and communicate them compellingly.

Behavioural Competencies

• Effective communication and influence (Level 3)
• Delivering high-quality services (Level 3)

Additional Information

The role requires full adherence to UK Civil Service principles, including security clearances such as the Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS). Successful applicants must have the right to work in the UK without requiring Skilled Worker sponsorship. The position involves a 35-hour standard workweek with potential flexible arrangements, although primarily onsite duties are expected. Interview assessments including presentations are planned, with further details provided upon progressing in the recruitment process.

Equity, diversity, and inclusion are core values, with adjustments available for applicants needing support during recruitment. More details about the Scottish Government, their workforce policies, and recruitment principles are available for interested candidates.