Scientist – Analytical Chemistry and Biological Monitoring (Band 5/EO)

Job summary

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is the independent regulator for work-related health and safety in Great Britain. Our mission is to protect people and places so that everyone can lead safer and healthier lives. We do this not only through inspections and investigations, but also by shaping industry practice, developing guidance and regulations, providing specialist scientific services, and producing research and evidence to support Great Britain in working well.

We are looking for two enthusiastic and motivated Scientists with skills in Analytical Chemistry to join the Exposure Measurement Team within HSE Science, Engineering & Analysis Division’s (SEAD) Health – Exposure & Control (H‑EC) Group. This is an excellent opportunity to begin your scientific career.

The team delivers high‑quality analytical research and scientific services for colleagues across HSE as well as external customers. You will support analytical service work, investigative and forensic work through laboratory‑based analysis and contribute to projects that address existing and emerging workplace health risks. The H‑EC Group brings together a range of technical disciplines, and collaborative working is central to our success. You will work with colleagues across the group and the wider organisation, engaging with scientists, measurement specialists, policy teams and senior leaders.

These are practical, laboratory‑based roles, suited to candidates with hands‑on experience in laboratory-based analytical chemistry. The roles involve applying and developing analytical techniques, including chromatography and spectrometry, to produce accurate, high‑quality measurement data.

The roles are ideal for individuals developing their practical experience at Band 5 level and involve a significant proportion of routine, hands‑on analytical work carried out under appropriate supervision.

Applicants should be able to demonstrate practical experience of analytical techniques gained through work, study or training.

The posts are based at HSE’s Science & Research Centre in Buxton, Derbyshire, an internationally recognised facility employing scientific, medical and technical specialists across a 550‑acre site.

Working Pattern

Part‑time working is available for candidates able to commit to a minimum of 30 hours per week.

As the work involves significant site-based laboratory and practical activities, you will be required to work on site at Buxton for the majority of your time. Remote working may be possible for some tasks; however, the role cannot be carried out predominantly from home.

Travel

Occasional travel may be required for site visits, meetings or training. You will also have opportunities for professional development, including conferences, memberships and contributing to scientific publications and presentations.

Job description

As a Scientist in Analytical Chemistry at Band 5 (Executive Officer level), you will support the delivery of laboratory based analytical work that provide high‑quality chemical measurement data to support HSE’s regulatory, forensic and investigative activities. This is a practical, hands on role, involving routine laboratory work with appropriate supervision and structured training, making it well‑suited to applicants who are developing their practical experience in analytical chemistry with an interest in method development and quality assurance.

As a Scientist in Biological Monitoring at Band 5 (Executive Officer level), you will support the delivery of a busy laboratory-based analytical service, analysing biological samples for chemical biomarkers as well as supporting research projects. This is a practical, hands-on role, involving routine laboratory work with appropriate supervision and structured training, making it well‑suited to applicants who are developing their practical experience in analytical chemistry with an interest in toxicology, toxicokinetics and metabolism.

Working under the guidance of senior scientists and the technical team lead, you will contribute to research projects that address emerging workplace health risks. You will apply and develop your expertise in techniques such as chromatography and spectrometry.

You will work to established quality, safety and operational standards, ensuring that all outputs are accurate and clear. The roles involve working collaboratively with colleagues across HSE and working as a team to contribute to national and international measurement standardisation activities.

These posts offer excellent opportunities to develop hands‑on analytical experience within an internationally recognised scientific organisation and contribute to work that supports health and safety across Great Britain.

Training will be provided and the role involves working under appropriate supervision, aligned to the post holder's experience and the responsibilities of a Band 5 (EO) scientific post.

Candidates will be expected to demonstrate practical experience of laboratory‑based analytical techniques through their application.

Key responsibilities

Role 1 : Analytical Chemistry

As a Scientist in the field of Analytical Chemistry at HSE, your key responsibilities will include but will not be limited to:

• Following and working to established health, safety, quality and operational procedures, with attention to detail for ensuring accurate and compliant laboratory work.
• Delivering routine, hands-on analytical services, including production of test samples, to defined timescales and supporting routine laboratory and instrument maintenance.
• Applying analytical techniques such as chromatography and spectrometry to generate high‑quality measurement data.
• Supporting analytical projects, including method development, data processing and interpretation, under appropriate guidance.
• Handling environmental and hazardous samples within a controlled laboratory environment on a daily basis.
• Undertaking a significant proportion of routine, repeatable laboratory work, alongside opportunities to develop broader analytical skills.

Role 2: Biological Monitoring

As a Scientist in the field of Biological Monitoring at HSE, your key responsibilities will include but will not be limited to:

• Following and working to established health, safety, quality and operational procedures, with attention to detail for ensuring accurate and compliant laboratory work.
• Delivering routine, hands-on analytical services to defined timescales and supporting routine laboratory and instrument maintenance.
• Applying analytical techniques such as chromatography and spectrometry to generate high‑quality measurement data.
• Supporting analytical and exposure assessment projects, including method development, data processing and interpretation, under appropriate guidance.
• Handling biological samples and hazardous chemicals within a controlled laboratory environment on a daily basis.
• Undertaking a significant proportion of routine, repeatable laboratory work, alongside opportunities to develop broader analytical skills.

Both roles may involve:

• Occasional lone working.
• Occasional travelling for offsite work, visits, meetings and training.

The above two roles are available. Candidates may indicate a preference; however, appointment to a specific role cannot be guaranteed, as posts will be offered based on overall merit.

These roles involve a significant proportion of laboratory‑based, hands‑on and routine analytical work, carried out under appropriate supervision, and are well suited to individuals developing their practical experience at Band 5 level.

Person specification

Essential Skills & Criteria

• Demonstrable practical experience independently applying laboratory‑based analytical chemistry techniques (e.g. gas chromatography, liquid chromatography, and/or mass spectrometry) to generate, analyse and interpret scientific data. This should be gained through work, higher education or structured training and include experience of method application, data analysis and ensuring data quality. Lead Criterion
• Ability to collate, manage, analyse and interpret scientific data, with appropriate attention to detail, quality and accuracy.
• Ability to identify technical solutions and contribute to the development of new or improved measurement approaches. The ability to troubleshoot instrument and method issues.
• Strong organisational skills for planning, scheduling and undertaking a varied workload with the ability to work on multiple projects at any one time, whilst ensuring delivery to time, cost and quality requirements.
• Good communication skills, using appropriate styles and methods for day-to-day team working and audiences at all levels.

Qualifications

A degree in Chemistry or a closely related discipline with a substantial analytical chemistry component, including practical experience of instrumental analysis (e.g. chromatography, spectrometry or related techniques).

Behaviours

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

• Working Together
• Delivering at Pace
• Managing a Quality Service

Technical skills

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

• Demonstrable practical experience independently applying laboratory based analytical chemistry techniques (e.g. gas chromatography, liquid chromatography, and/or mass spectrometry) to generate, analyse and interpret scientific data.

Benefits

Alongside your salary of £31,657, Health and Safety Executive contributes £9,171 towards you being a member of the Civil Service Defined Benefit Pension scheme. Find out what benefits a Civil Service Pension provides.

• Learning and development tailored to your role
• An environment with flexible working options
• A culture encouraging inclusion and diversity

We invest in our people with:

• Competitive rates of pay
• Access to the highly competitive Civil Service Pension Scheme to which HSE contribute 28.97% far more than in the private sector
• Family friendly policies and working hours to help balance your home life and career
• Carer friendly policies to help create a supportive working culture
• 25 days annual holiday increasing to 30 days after 5 years' service, plus bank holidays and 1-day Civil Service privilege leave
• Parental leave benefits
• As a member of HSE you will gain access to a wide range of fantastic benefits that you can take advantage of such as the Cycle to Work Scheme, E-Gift Cards, and Vouchers via our partner EdenRed

Things you need to know

Artificial intelligence

Artificial intelligence can be a useful tool to support your application, however, all examples and statements provided must be truthful, factually accurate and taken directly from your own experience. Where plagiarism has been identified (presenting the ideas and experiences of others, or generated by artificial intelligence, as your own) applications may be withdrawn and internal candidates may be subject to disciplinary action. Please see our candidate guidance (opens in a new window) for more information on appropriate and inappropriate use.

Selection process details

This vacancy is using Success Profiles (opens in a new window), and will assess your Behaviours, Experience and Technical skills.

Application Information

As part of your application, you will be invited to complete an anonymised CV detailing your career history, experience and qualifications. Please ensure your CV is aligned to the Essential Skills and Criteria listed in the advert.

You will also be required to complete an anonymised Personal Statement of no more than 750 words, demonstrating how you meet the Lead Criterion from the Essential Skills and Criteria: Demonstrable practical experience independently applying laboratory‑based analytical chemistry techniques (e.g. gas chromatography, liquid chromatography, and/or mass spectrometry) to generate, analyse and interpret scientific data. This should be gained through work, higher education or structured training and include experience of method application, data analysis and ensuring data quality.

Please describe your practical experience of applying analytical chemistry techniques (e.g. GC, LC, MS). Your response should clearly include:

• The techniques used and your level of responsibility (e.g. method development, independent use, supervised use).

• How you generated, analysed and interpreted data.

• How you ensured data quality and accuracy.

• Any troubleshooting, optimisation or method development undertaken.

Application Guidance

Please access the following link for guidance on how to apply and how to complete a Personal Statement https://www.civil-service-careers.gov.uk/how-to-apply/

Sift Information

The sift will take place from week commencing 13 July 2026 when you will be assessed on your CV and Personal Statement.

Interview Information

Interviews will take place on 28 & 29 July 2026, in person at our Buxton site when you will be assessed against the Behaviours, Technical Skills and Your Experience detailed within the job advert.

Please note that sift and interview dates may be subject to change, and additional interview dates may be scheduled depending on the volume of applications and panel availability.

Sponsorship

This role is not open to application from those who will require sponsorship under the points-based system. Should you apply for this role and require sponsorship your application will be rejected, and any provisional offers of employment will be withdrawn.

Further Information

Please note that a Reserve List will be held for the period of up to 12 months. There is no guarantee you will be offered a role from our reserve lists, so if you see a vacancy on Civil Service Jobs that you are interested in, we recommend you apply.

HSE reserve the right to conduct additional checks, including Google and social media checks, when recruiting candidates into a role within HSE. These checks will be carried out in line with the Civil Service Commission Principles and, if used all candidates will be subject to these additional checks.

From 23rd June 2025, if you are successful at interview, as part of your pre-employment checks, HSE’s Recruitment Team are required to check your details against the Internal Fraud Hub (IFH), using your personal details – name, NINO, and date of birth. If you are included on the database, you will be refused employment. If you believe that there has been an error in the inclusion of your data and wish to make an appeal, please contact the CO email box internal.fraud@cabinetoffice.gov.uk .

Details of the types of internal fraud/dishonesty covered by this process are defined by the Cabinet Office and can be found here Internal Fraud Register privacy notice - GOV.UK

It is the candidate’s responsibility to ensure they are aware of the terms and conditions they will adopt should they be successful in their application. For a summary of HSE terms and conditions as part of Civil Service Reform, please see the attached HSE Terms and Conditions document.

Progression through pay ranges is subject to annual pay awards as permitted within annual Civil Service pay remit guidance and negotiations with trade unions.

HSE is proud to be a part of the Disability Confidence Scheme (DCS). As a Disability Confident employer, we positively welcome applications from disabled people. We are committed to making workplace adjustments to ensure anyone can participate in the recruitment and selection process.

If, during the application or interview process, you require any assistance due to a disability or a medical condition, please contact us at the email address below to discuss how we can support you. For example, if you have a disability, and you need an application form in an alternative format or you would like to know more about our recruitment process, please contact: HR.Resourcing-Team@hse.gov.uk

If successful in securing your role, HSE can provide suitable workplace adjustments to support you throughout your career with HSE.

Any move to HSE from another employer will mean you can no longer access childcare vouchers. This includes moves between government departments. You may however be eligible for other government schemes, including Tax Free Childcare. Determine your eligibility here.

Please note, if you are a current civil servant and you are currently undergoing any of the following formal actions your application will not be progressed any further;
Formal discipline action, any formal action regarding attendance, poor performance or any restriction of duties as a result of disciplinary action.

Feedback will only be provided if you attend an interview or assessment.

Security

Successful candidates must undergo a criminal record check.People working with government assets must complete baseline personnel security standard (opens in new window) checks.

Nationality requirements

This job is broadly open to the following groups:

• UK nationals
• nationals of the Republic of Ireland
• nationals of Commonwealth countries who have the right to work in the UK
• nationals of the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein and family members of those nationalities with settled or pre-settled status under the European Union Settlement Scheme (EUSS) (opens in a new window)
• nationals of the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein and family members of those nationalities who have made a valid application for settled or pre-settled status under the European Union Settlement Scheme (EUSS)
• individuals with limited leave to remain or indefinite leave to remain who were eligible to apply for EUSS on or before 31 December 2020
• Turkish nationals, and certain family members of Turkish nationals, who have accrued the right to work in the Civil Service

Further information on nationality requirements (opens in a new window)

Working for the Civil Service

The Civil Service Code (opens in a new window) sets out the standards of behaviour expected of civil servants.

We recruit by merit on the basis of fair and open competition, as outlined in the Civil Service Commission's recruitment principles (opens in a new window).The Civil Service embraces diversity and promotes equal opportunities. As such, we run a Disability Confident Scheme (DCS) for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria.The Civil Service also offers a Redeployment Interview Scheme to civil servants who are at risk of redundancy, and who meet the minimum requirements for the advertised vacancy.

Diversity and Inclusion

The Civil Service is committed to attract, retain and invest in talent wherever it is found. To learn more please see theCivil Service People Plan (opens in a new window) and the Civil Service Diversity and Inclusion Strategy (opens in a new window).

Apply and further information

This vacancy is part of the Great Place to Work for Veterans (opens in a new window) initiative.Once this job has closed, the job advert will no longer be available. You may want to save a copy for your records.

Contact point for applicants

Job contact :

• Name : Kate Jones
• Email : kate.jones@hse.gov.uk

Recruitment team

• Email : HR.Resourcing-team@hse.gov.uk

Further information

If you believe that Civil Service Commission principles of selection for appointment on merit on the basis of Fair and Open competition have not been met, you can raise a complaint by emailing: HR.Resourcing-Team@hse.gov.uk or by writing to HSE at the following address:
HR Resourcing Team, 2.3 Redgrave Court, Merton Road, Bootle, Merseyside, L20 7HS. If you are not satisfied with the response you receive from the Department, you can contact Civil Service commissioners:
https://civilservicecommission.independent.gov.uk/code/civilservicecode…

Attachments

HSE Terms and Conditions - CSJ Advert Annex Opens in new window (pdf, 116kB)