Specialist - Chemical Hazard Evaluation - 30921

Environment Agency; Cramlington; Hybrid; GBP 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

The Environment Agency is seeking a Specialist in Chemical Hazard Evaluation to join their Chemicals Assessment Unit. This role involves assessing the environmental risk of chemicals under UK regulations, requiring a strong background in environmental science and data analysis. The position offers flexible working arrangements and the opportunity to contribute to significant environmental assessments.

Qualifications

• At least two years of applied experience in environmental effects and/or fate assessment of chemicals.
• Demonstrated experience in environmental hazard and risk assessment of chemicals.
• Ability to analyze complex scientific and numerical data.

Responsibilities

• Evaluate ecotoxicity and environmental fate data in chemical dossiers.
• Summarize and present endpoints from environmental studies.
• Conduct quality assurance reviews and provide alternative interpretations.

Skills

Data Analysis

Communication

Organizational Skills

Education

First degree in a relevant scientific discipline

Job description

Specialist - Chemical Hazard Evaluation - 30921

2 days ago Be among the first 25 applicants

Job Description

Are you interested in working for an organization that values diversity and inclusivity? The Environment Agency is committed to being an inclusive employer and providing equal opportunities for all. We welcome flexible working arrangements, including job sharing.

We are seeking a regulatory scientist to assess the environmental hazard and risk of industrial and consumer chemicals under UK REACH and CLP Regulations. Working within our Chemicals Assessment Unit (CAU), a team of science specialists, you will:

1. Evaluate the reliability and relevance of ecotoxicity and environmental fate data and safety assessments in chemical dossiers and reports, identifying key regulatory endpoints.
2. Summarize and present endpoints from environmental effects studies, fate data, and modeled estimates.
3. Describe test methods used in studies, highlighting data limitations and uncertainties.
4. Use data to determine appropriate environmental classifications under CLP and assess compliance with UK REACH registration standards.
5. Conduct quality assurance reviews and provide alternative interpretations when necessary.
6. Contribute to setting priorities and identify areas for further research.
7. Support test guideline development and initiatives to replace animal testing methods.
8. Work within defined timescales to deliver high-quality outputs on time and within budget.
9. Build collaborative relationships and consult with colleagues across teams and government bodies.

Responding to incidents is a core part of our work. You will be expected to participate in incident response roles and provide business continuity support as needed. Training will be provided, and additional payments may apply.

The Team:

The Chemicals Assessment Unit is part of the Research division within the Chief Scientist’s Group. Our dispersed team operates from various hub locations. We provide scientific support to HSE and UK government agencies on environmental issues related to UK REACH, CLP, and POPs regulations. Our work involves assessing chemical hazards and exposures, proposing risk management actions, and collaborating with international partners.

Experience and Skills Required:

• A first degree in a relevant scientific discipline (e.g., chemistry, biology, environmental science).
• At least two years of applied experience in environmental effects and/or fate assessment of chemicals, at a national or international level.
• Ability to analyze complex scientific and numerical data, identify key information, and follow standard guidance confidently.
• Excellent writing, communication, and organizational skills to meet deadlines.
• In your application, demonstrate your experience in environmental hazard and risk assessment of chemicals, with specific examples related to REACH and CLP regulations.

Additional Information:

While the base location is flexible/hybrid, you should be confident working remotely and collaborating virtually. Some travel and overnight stays may be required.

Please review the Candidate / Additional Information Pack for guidance on answering competency questions.

Applications are assessed blindly based on your responses to competency questions. High application volumes may result in an initial sift based on competence 1. Feedback is generally not provided at the sift stage.

Interviews are scheduled for July via MS Teams and may include a technical data exercise.

For further information, contact [e-mail].

Competencies:

• Scientific Knowledge: Applying scientific knowledge to provide evidence-based advice. Describe how you've applied your expertise in environmental hazard or risk assessment of chemicals.
• Data and Information Management: Collecting, analyzing, and sharing complex environmental data. Provide an example of interpreting such data for decision-making.
• Takes Decisions and Solves Problems: Finding solutions through effective analysis and decision-making. Share a significant problem you've solved, including your approach and outcome.

Note: The Environment Agency is not part of HM Civil Service and does not offer continuous service. Civil Service employees may not be eligible for continuous service benefits.

We promote diversity and inclusion and welcome flexible working and candidates with disabilities, including guaranteed interview schemes.