Senior Advisor - PFAS - 31247

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Job Description

PFAS, or forever chemicals, are a serious concern for both the environment and human health worldwide. These chemicals will likely stay high on the political, public, and regulatory agenda for several decades or more. The Environment Agency has been stepping up to this challenge, developing an ambitious programme of science, investigations, and regulatory initiatives.

We need a technical leader to help lead the EA’s overall work on PFAS. Working with experts from strategy, science, and operational teams, you will focus on translating science and evidence into actions to reduce PFAS impact.

You will collaborate with scientists and monitoring experts to ensure the EA has the best evidence, oversee various projects, and work with project managers and sector leads to ensure quality outcomes.

You will represent the EA with external partners, including Defra and other regulatory bodies, ensuring policies are informed by our science. You will engage with international partners and stay connected to global PFAS developments.

You will contribute to developing training materials for staff and raise the profile of our PFAS work. You will also advise on media and stakeholder engagement, including responding to formal information requests.

This role is complex and challenging, offering opportunities to raise your profile and stretch your skills.

We are committed to an inclusive workforce reflecting the communities we serve. We welcome flexible working patterns.

The team

This vacancy is within the Chemicals Regulatory Development team in the EA’s Chemicals Programme, part of the Environment & Business Directorate. The team has diverse experience across sectors like waste, water, and product compliance, collaborating to deliver PFAS work with EA and external partners.

Experience / skills Required

An excellent understanding of chemical pollutant impacts, especially on PFAS, is essential. Knowledge of chemistry or ecotoxicology is desirable. You should be quick to learn and able to bring others along as understanding of PFAS evolves.

You must be a technical leader, capable of overseeing multiple areas, delegating effectively, and inspiring others. Strategic thinking, flexibility, and strong communication, coordination, and organizational skills are required.

Training opportunities will be provided.

Contact and additional information

This is a 12-month assignment covering maternity leave. You can be based at any EA office, with a hybrid working approach. Some travel may be required.

For more information, read the Candidate / Additional Information Pack. Queries can be directed to matt.womersley@environment-agency.gov.uk. Applications are assessed blindly via competency questions, with interviews via MS Teams. We may hold your details for 6 months for future opportunities.

Contract details

Up to 12 months.

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