Senior Scientific Officer

Barnet London Borough Council; Chipping Barnet; Hybrid; GBP 42,000 - 47,000; Full time

Job summary

A local government council is seeking a Key Senior Scientific Officer to ensure public health compliance and provide expert guidance to local businesses. The role demands a degree in Environmental Science or Pollution Control and knowledge of relevant laws and practices. Responsibilities include conducting inspections and assisting the Council in meeting its statutory obligations. This position offers a rewarding experience in a collaborative environment, with a focus on public safety and service excellence.

Benefits

31 days annual leave plus public holidays

Access to the Local Government Pension Scheme

Work-life balance options

Lifestyle discounts and benefits

Employee well-being programmes

Qualifications

• Knowledge of relevant laws, codes of practice, and guidance.
• Ability to record data accurately using specialist systems.
• Adaptable, flexible, and ready to take on new challenges.

Responsibilities

• Carry out inspections using statutory powers to protect public health.
• Provide expert advice and assistance to businesses and residents.
• Help the Council meet statutory obligations while delivering exceptional service.

Skills

Knowledge of relevant laws

Data recording accuracy

Ability to provide expert advice

Adaptability and flexibility

Education

Degree in Environmental Science or Pollution Control

Job description

Job Info

Job Identification 1045

Posting Date 23/12/2025

Location 2 Bristol Avenue, London, NW9 4EW, GB (Hybrid)

Apply Before 19/01/2026, 23:55

Job Schedule Full time

Working Hours 36

Salary range Grade I £42,771 - £46,968

About Barnet Council

Barnet is a borough with many strengths – excellent schools, vibrant town centres, vast green spaces and diverse communities. The council is committed to building on these strengths, working with partners and residents to make Barnet even better, guided by our values of Caring, Learning to Improve, Inclusive and Collaborate.

About the Directorate

The Assurance and Public Protection directorate ensures democratic accountability of council services, monitoring compliance and providing assurance that Barnet protects the public purse. We provide enforcement services that protect residents and businesses, supporting a safer and healthier borough.

Key Senior Scientific Officer Position

Role Overview

You will work at the heart of public health and compliance, ensuring high standards and supporting local businesses to meet their legal duties.

What you’ll do:

• Carry out inspections and use statutory powers to protect public health.
• Provide expert advice and assistance to businesses and residents.
• Help the Council meet its statutory obligations while delivering exceptional service.

What we’re looking for:

• Degree in Environmental Science or Pollution Control.
• Strong knowledge of relevant laws, codes of practice and guidance.
• Ability to record data accurately using specialist systems.
• Adaptable, flexible and ready to take on new challenges.

Appropriate contacts for further information: Jennifer Barrett – [e-mail]

Benefits and Work Environment

• 31 days annual leave plus public and bank holidays.
• Access to the Local Government Pension Scheme.
• Work‑life balance options: hybrid working, flexitime, job share, home working, part‑time.
• Vast range of lifestyle discounts, payroll benefits, training and development opportunities.
• Employee well‑being programmes and support.

All staff are expected to promote equality in the workplace and in the services the Council delivers. Barnet Council welcomes applications from all backgrounds and is committed to safeguarding the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. All posts are subject to a six‑month probationary period.

Due to the high number of applications some vacancies may close before the stated closing date if a sufficient number of applications are received.

Application Deadline

Closing date for applications: 19 January 2026.

Interviews will take place during the week commencing 2 February 2026.