Scientific Officer - Belfast

Vickerstock; Belfast; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading environmental employer in Northern Ireland, Vickerstock is seeking a Scientific Officer to oversee essential monitoring services at landfill sites in Belfast. The role involves conducting environmental assessments, managing water sampling, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. Ideal candidates will have a relevant science degree or equivalent experience, strong analytical and communication skills, and a passion for environmental protection.

Qualifications

• Relevant science degree with 1 year's experience in environmental water sampling or landfill gas management.
• Full current driving licence and access to a vehicle for official duties.
• Strong analytical skills and the ability to interpret complex data.

Responsibilities

• Conduct environmental monitoring programmes to ensure compliance with licensing requirements.
• Perform chemical analysis of water samples and report findings.
• Monitor landfill gas extraction systems for safety and efficiency.

Skills

Communication skills

Teamwork

Analytical skills

Organizational skills

IT proficiency

Education

Third-level qualification in relevant science subject

Tools

GIS

Datalogging software

Job description

Scientific Officer (Landfill)

Belfast City Council | Grade 7 | Permanent

Vickerstock are proud to be working in partnership with Belfast City Council to assist with the appointment of a Scientific Officer (Landfill). This is a fantastic opportunity to join one of Northern Ireland's most recognised employers, providing an essential environmental monitoring service across key landfill sites including Giant's Park and the former Dargan Road site.

About the Role

Reporting directly to the Environmental Protection Manager, you will take responsibility for the delivery of groundwater, marine water, leachate and landfill gas monitoring programmes. This role is critical in maintaining compliance with Waste Management Licences and ensuring the safe operation of landfill gas systems.

Your duties will include data collection and interpretation, operation and maintenance of technical monitoring equipment, and producing detailed reports to support regulatory obligations. This is a varied and hands-on scientific role requiring a highly organised and diligent professional.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct environmental monitoring programmes to meet licensing and regulatory requirements.

• Perform chemical and physical analysis of water samples and prepare for laboratory testing.

• Undertake manual water level measurements and download, analyse and interpret data from dataloggers.

• Monitor and adjust landfill gas extraction systems to ensure safe, efficient operation in line with regulatory standards.

• Compile, interpret and report scientific data to regulatory bodies, developers, consultants and government departments.

• Supervise staff, provide training on monitoring techniques, and ensure all monitoring equipment is maintained and calibrated.

• Assist with other environmental monitoring duties, including air quality projects and pollution investigations.

• Provide operational cover and out-of-hours services when required.

• Keep informed of relevant environmental legislation and best practice developments.

Essential Criteria:

• Full current driving licence and access to a vehicle for official duties.

• Either:

  • A third-level qualification in a relevant science subject (Chemistry, Environmental Chemistry, Environmental Science, Chemical Engineering) and at least 1 year's relevant experience in environmental water sampling, landfill gas management and landfill operations.

  • Or: 2 years' relevant experience in environmental water sampling, landfill gas management and landfill operations.

Skills & Attributes:

• Excellent written and oral communication skills with the ability to produce clear, concise technical reports.

• Strong teamworking and leadership abilities to support and mentor staff.

• Practical understanding of environmental monitoring techniques and landfill gas management.

• Solid grasp of health and safety requirements in high-risk environments.

• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex data and make operational decisions.

• Proficiency in IT systems, including GIS, databases, and datalogging software.

• Excellent organisational skills with proven ability to manage and prioritise workload.

Desirable (Shortlisting Criteria):

• Third-level qualification in a relevant subject and at least 2 years' relevant experience, or 3 years' relevant experience without qualifications.

To speak in absolute confidence about this opportunity please send an up to date CV via the link provided or contact Ruairi McCann, Recruitment Manager at Vickerstock 02890 313720
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