Assistant Scientific Officer, Belfast

Our client is looking for an Assistant Scientific Officer to join their team!

Rate of Pay:£11.99

Hours: 37

Duration:3 months, with possibility if extension

Location:Belfast

Agri-Environment Branch (AEB) is one of two Branches within the Environment and Marine Sciences Division (EMSD) of AFBI. The aims of the Branch are to develop and sustain an integrated research effort with national and international recognition on nutrient management within agricultural systems, focusing particularly on the needs of Northern Ireland. Environmental research in the Branch addresses land and nutrient management issues to make appropriate and efficient use of resources, while protecting the environment. The integrated research effort covers the impact of agriculture on air, soil, water quality and biodiversity.

The Soil Nutrient Health Scheme is the largest baseline soil sampling programme ever undertaken. It is being managed by AEB and due to the scale and complexity of the scheme, it is being rolled out on a zonal basis with all the zones completed by 2026. Successful candidates will work as Assistant Scientific Officers, carrying out sample collection within the Soil Nutrient Health Scheme research programme.

Main duties:

The post holder will report to a Scientific Officer grade or above.

• Duties include field sampling and processing of soil samples.

• The successful candidate will conduct a range of field-based activities related to soil sampling across Northern Ireland. Defined sampling protocols must be followed.

• Postholders will be required to maintain and manage resources in the field and laboratory, including preparation of field equipment and operation of laboratory instruments.

• Postholders must follow set protocols in the field and laboratory to prepare soil or samples for a range of nutrient and other physiochemical parameters.

• Postholders must ensure quality standards are adhered to, in accordance with existing ISO9001 accreditation. Standard operating procedures must be followed and postholders will assist in the maintenance of and field instruments.

• Postholders will be required to work effectively and co-operatively as part of a team in both field and laboratory settings.

• Postholders will be required to drive a company vehicle to fulfil the duties of this role which involves attending remote locations.

• This list is not exhaustive and the successful candidate will be required to carry out other duties as required by management.