Scientific Officer

Scientific Officer in Fresh Water Fisheries MINNOW project

Location: Newforge Lane
Hours: Full-time, 37 hours per week (variable due to nature of the work, there may be overtime and unsociable hours including weekend work).
Pay Rate: £17.43 per hour

About the Role

The Fisheries and Aquatic Ecosystems Branch (FAEB) of the Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI) plays a vital role in delivering research, monitoring, and innovation to support the sustainable management of fisheries and aquatic resources across Northern Ireland.

We are seeking a motivated and resilient Scientific Officer to support ongoing scientific programmes. This is a hands-on role combining fieldwork and laboratory-based responsibilities, ideal for candidates with a strong interest in environmental or aquatic science.

Key Duties & Responsibilities

You will assist with scientific sampling in lakes and rivers, as well as laboratory processing and data management. The role involves working outdoors in varied and sometimes challenging conditions, including on small boats, and may require occasional overtime, weekend work, and unsociable hours. Facilitating, monitoring, and managing the planned preventative maintenance (PPM) schedule and associated remedial works

• Conduct scientific sampling of biological specimens, including fish and molluscs
• Undertake water sampling in rivers and lakes
• Maintain and prepare field sampling equipment
• Accurately record field data and input into electronic systems
• Prepare and process biological samples in the laboratory
• Support general laboratory, field, and office duties as required
• Collate and quality assure laboratory data
• Assist in reporting results to support senior management and research outputs

Essential Criteria

Candidates must have (one of the following):

• Option A:
  • 2 A-Levels (or equivalent), including at least one science subject
  • Minimum 2 years' experience planning and conducting fieldwork in environmental or aquatic science
• Option B:
  • 5 GCSEs (A*-C), including Science, Maths, and English (or equivalent)
  • Minimum 3 years' experience planning and conducting fieldwork in environmental or aquatic science

AND:

• At least 1 year of experience in scientific data management, including use of spreadsheets, databases, and GIS
• Strong understanding of data quality and adherence to sampling protocols
• Full, current (or exchangeable) manual driving licence

Additional Information

• The role involves manual handling and physically demanding outdoor work
• Work may be conducted in adverse weather conditions
• Travel across Northern Ireland will be required
• Reasonable adjustments will be considered in line with the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA)

Apply Now!
Take the next step in your career and join a rewarding role with our client. Apply today or contact Robyn Barry at [email protected]

To be shortlisted for this role all applicants MUST meet the essential criteria. Please note that these roles may be filled quickly but your CV will be kept on file for future similar roles. As there are so many applications, unsuccessful candidates may not be contacted.

Successful candidates may need to apply for an Access NI Certificate with Staffline regardless if you already have a valid certificate. It will be a cost of between £16 - £32 depending on clearance level.