Number of jobs available: 2
Region: National
City/Town: All
Building/Site: All
Grade: Staff Grade 5
Post Type: Fixed Term
Working Pattern: Full Time
Role Type: Operational Research, Planning, Science, Statistics, Analytical
Salary Minimum: £37,462 pro rata
Job description
We’re looking for two water resources modellers and/or data technicians to join the Environment Agency’s National Appraisal Unit. The positions available are:
1) Water resources national framework modeller: you will use different models to assess future water needs by bringing together the latest information on supply and demand and exploring a range of possible scenarios. This will include demands from the agriculture and energy sectors, as well as public water supply. You will also help shape research that enables collaboration between water companies and other sectors, supporting truly integrated water resources management.
2) National system simulation modeller: working primarily with technical team members and a diverse range of stakeholders including RAPID, water companies, regional groups, and academic project partners, your role will involve two aspects. First, using an in-house national WR system simulation model to support work on assessing the drought resilience benefits of potential supply options. Second, to support the ongoing development of national water resources modelling capabilities for future work.
As well as progressing the modelling work you will have an important role in sharing your skills through the business and enhancing the organisation’s technical resilience. Both roles will be instrumental in preparing for the next round of water resources management plans and regional plans. You’ll need to be able to draw on modelling expertise to quantitatively assess surplus/deficit and supply system resilience. The work will involve data processing, running specialised programs and drawing together findings in a logical way.
Responding to incidents is a central part of what we do. You will be required to have an incident role and make yourself available to respond to incidents, or provide business continuity support during an incident. This may attract an additional payment and full training and workplace adjustments will be available to support you with your incident role.
The team
Positioned within the National Appraisal Unit in Operations Catchment Services, the Water Resources Modelling Team is establishing national water resources modelling capabilities to provide assessments of supply options and provide timely evidence-based recommendations to RAPID and other key stakeholders. The team provides technical skills and resources to support the wider business through collaborative projects, including modelling strategic resource options with RAPID and academic partners, and working with E&B on modelling for the national framework refresh.
Experience/skills required
We are seeking two individuals with experience of water resources planning data and water resources modelling, or with enthusiasm to learn and transferrable skills. You’ll be qualified to at least degree standard in a relevant discipline, be highly numerate with strong analytical skills and have experience working on multi-stakeholder projects, delivering results to tight deadlines. The ideal candidate will have most, of the following skills:
- Highly motivated self-starter/self-learner with good interpersonal skills and commitment to continuous improvement.
- Proven ability using different modelling techniques and software/programs.
- High level of numeracy with strong data processing/manipulation and programming skills
- Ability to understand and communicate complex technical concepts to different audiences
- Good problem solving, decision making and scientific reasoning skills
- Identifies potential problems and proactively innovates solutions
- Adept at working collaboratively, as part of a virtual team, and independently
- Handles multiple work streams and priorities
Contact and additional information
The role will require some travel to other Environment Agency sites, external meetings and occasional overnight stays.
Interviews are planned between w/c 30/10/23
If you would like to know more about the role please contact the vacancy manager, Emily Fallon (tel. 07880410341 or via email emily.fallon@environment-agency.gov.uk).
More information can be found in the candidate pack. Our ultimate aim is for an inclusive workforce that reflects the diversity in the communities we work with and the environment we protect.
Job description attachment 1
Job Profile – 27690.docx – 83KB
Converted File Job Profile – 27690.docx.pdf – 64KB
Candidate pack
Candidate Pack – 27690.docx – 2038KB
Converted File Candidate Pack – 27690.docx.pdf – 548KB
Closing Date: 06/10/2023, 23:55 hours
Level of security checks required: Basic Check
Length of contract: end date 09/10/25
Competence 1: Data and Information Management
Description
Describe how you have collected, analysed, interpreted, recorded, managed, and developed data or information, and how you have shared this data or information with different audiences
Competence 2: Achieves Results
Description
Describe how you have set and delivered high work standards, met targets, and organised tasks and resources to ensure timely achievement of results
Competence 3: Takes Decisions and Solves Problems
Description
Describe how you have identified and delivered optimum solutions by effectively analysing all the information, probed to develop alternative solutions, and made sound and timely decisions
Competence 4: Focuses on Customers and Partners
Description
Describe how you have balanced and met the needs of internal and external customers, provided effective responses, and resolved problems
If you are applying from the Civil Service please note that the Environment Agency is not a part of HM Civil Service and you would not be a Crown Servant in the event of being appointed. Therefore, you will not be eligible for continuous service. For applicants who currently work in local government or other bodies listed in the Redundancy Payments (Continuity of Employment in Local Government etc) (Modification) Order 1999, you may be eligible for continuous service for the purpose of calculating any future redundancy payment. If you are unsure of your status then you should contact your own HR Team.
We are fully committed to having a diverse and inclusive workforce to reflect the communities we serve. We welcome flexible working patterns for all our vacancies, including job share, so please include clearly any information regarding your preferred working arrangements on your application.
We also have a Guaranteed Interview Policy to support those with a disability who are seeking employment. We have committed to guaranteeing an interview to anyone with a disability whose application meets the minimum criteria for the post.
The Environment Agency, as a Non-Departmental Public Body, is committed to providing value for money and utilises Central Government frameworks and contracts for all external recruitment needs. For this reason, we are unable to engage with the market directly through post, email or phone calls . Should you wish to become a support supplier on one of these frameworks or contracts please visit https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/become-a-crown-commercial-service-supplier/becoming-a-supplier-through-the-crown-commercial-service-what-you-need-to-know for more information.