Gamma Spectrometry Specialist

Job summary

An opportunity exists for a Gamma Spectrometry Technical Manager in the Radiological and Chemical Sciences (RACS) Group. The radiological sciences area comprises a diverse group of scientists who provide high quality analytical support, data interpretation and scientific advice to a comprehensive portfolio of internal and external contracts for UK and international customers. The role requires an experienced radiological scientist who will lead the gamma spectrometry area for a large range of complex matrices of environmental monitoring samples for the radiological monitoring programmes, which ensure the public�s safety regarding exposure to radiation in the environment. The role also involves assisting the radiological area with developing further our radioanalytical capability and expanding it by using new techniques.�

Cefas is proud of a diverse and inclusive work environment, committed to fairness and the promotion of equality of opportunity for all. We know that having a range of experiences, backgrounds, ways of working and thinking, makes us a stronger organisation, better at reflecting the communities we serve. We embrace different views and experiences and value the fresh perspective that people from a variety of circumstances bring to the work we do. We welcome applications from candidates who have not previously worked for the Civil Service, mid- and late-career changers with transferable skills, people from all backgrounds and circumstances regardless of disability, gender, age, ethnicity, LGBT+ identity and socio-economic status.

Job description

The main duties and responsibilities include completing sample measurements and calculations to ensure timely delivery of reporting data, and to supervise the science staff and technical activities to ensure quality control requirements are maintained. The role will include having the responsibility for the day-to-day technical direction of staff, ensuring that the appropriate samples are prioritised and all delivery deadlines are met.

Responsibilities in Gamma Spectrometry include managing quality alerts, reviewing and maintaining accurate Standard Operating Procedures in line with ISO17025, ensuring sample handover is correctly recorded, using Laboratory Information Management System equipment maintenance, fault finding and initiating repairs. You will also manage and assist in the spectral analysis and validation of results data prior to the release to the internal customers. You will be expected to lead and have responsibility for the technical aspects of the Gamma Spectrometry area, including ensuring all technical work is achieved in accordance with ISO 17025; ensuring the area is compliant with the Cefas Quality Manual; ensuring all staff have appropriate training and aptitude for the task they perform; ensuring Internal Quality Control and External Quality Assurance ( Proficiency Testing) is planned, monitored and reviewed. You will liaise with Technical Managers and deputy Technical Managers in other radiological Technical Areas (Sample Preparation/Processing and Radiochemistry) to ensure effective communication and team working.

The post requires you to work as part of a team with the ability to mentor scientists and for you will be fully accountable for the Gamma Spectrometry technical area. You will have excellent communication skills and the ability to communicate ideas and plans clearly. You will be required to promote a culture of innovation to drive forward method development and improvements in techniques.� You will also be expected to promote a positive Health, Safety and Quality culture.� You must have good IT skills, including a working knowledge of standard Microsoft applications.

In addition, Cefas reserves the right to ask staff to take on additional duties and responsibilities which are commensurate with their grade. Team Leaders and management will have a discussion with staff to explain the changes that are to be made. A new job description will be issued if required.

Person specification

A high level of radiological technical knowledge and experience is essential for this role, and you must be able to demonstrate your skills and experience in these essential areas (criteria):

University degree in Physics, Chemistry, or equivalent natural science with relevance to the position and its tasks, or able to demonstrate having extensive working experience in radioanalytical techniques with an emphasis on Gamma Spectrometry.You will have experience in working with radioactive materials in a laboratory environment.You will be familiar with the requirements to establish radioactivity concentrations in food and the environment.You will have excellent attention to detail and produce high-quality analytical results.You will be experienced in providing technical mentoring and leadership of staff.You must have good communication skills, both verbal and written, be flexible and possess the ability to organise your own workload to meet deadlines.Effective team working is essential to this role.

Behaviours

We'll assess you against these behaviours during the selection process:

Managing a Quality ServiceChanging and ImprovingWorking Together

We only ask for evidence of these behaviours on your application form:

Managing a Quality Service

Technical skills

We'll assess you against these technical skills during the selection process:

Demonstrable technical skills in Gamma Spectrometry, with a proven track record of maintaining instruments.A good understanding of Gamma Spectrometric analytical software is essential.Extensive experience with the UKAS ISO17025 standard and Health and Safety requirements including rigorous adherence to relevant COSHH, Risk Assessments and SOPs.

Benefits

Alongside your salary of �31,825, Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science contributes �8,593 towards you being a member of the Civil Service Defined Benefit Pension scheme. Generous annual leave entitlement � Cefas offers 25 days' annual leave on entry (rising to 30 days over first 5yrs) for full-time new entrants to the Civil Service. Employees receive 8 public holidays a year, plus an additional day to mark the King's birthdayAccess to learning and development tailored to your roleA working environment that supports a range of flexible working optionsA working culture which encourages inclusion and diversityEligible to join the Civil Service Pension scheme � more information can be found on the CSP website�Staff recognition vouchersIn-year award scheme

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