Lead Water Quality Modelling Specialist Advisor

Location: Stanmore

The role Would you like to lead Natural Resources Wales' (NRW) expertise in water quality modelling and help shape the future of Wales' water environment? This is an exciting new opportunity to establish and lead NRW's water quality modelling capability, complementing our existing freshwater quality and marine modelling expertise. In this influential role, you will use your technical knowledge and professional experience to develop and deliver a forward-looking modelling programme that supports environmental protection, drives water quality improvements, and informs strategic decision-making across the organisation.

Working across a diverse range of water quality issues, you will collaborate with colleagues at all levels and from a variety of disciplines, giving you a unique opportunity to influence priorities, share expertise and help shape NRW's approach to environmental management. You will be encouraged to bring fresh thinking, develop innovative solutions, and apply your specialist knowledge to complex environmental challenges.

Depending on your experience and interests, your remit may extend beyond water environment modelling to include ecological and hydraulic modelling, providing broad opportunities for professional development and impact. You will also build strong relationships with key external stakeholders, including the Welsh Government, the Environment Agency and other national partners, ensuring that NRW remains at the forefront of evidence-led environmental management.

This is a highly rewarding role for someone who is passionate about using science, evidence and innovation to protect and improve Wales' natural resources for future generations. As an organisation we support flexible working. You will be contracted to the nearest NRW office to your home and a suitable hybrid working pattern will be agreed on appointment. Any regular face to face meetings or training will be planned in advance.

To make an informal enquiry about this role, please contact Ruth Johnston at Interviews will take place through Microsoft Teams.

About us At NRW, we are committed to the sustainable management of Wales' natural resources, helping to create a healthier, more resilient environment for people, nature and the economy. As Wales' environmental regulator, we play a vital role in safeguarding our water, land and air while supporting sustainable development across the nation. The Water Quality Policy Team sits within our Strategy, Policy and Evidence Directorate and provides leadership on some of NRW's most important water quality priorities.

The team is responsible for developing and shaping NRW's policy on wastewater, groundwater and bathing waters, helping to ensure that Wales' water environment is protected and enhanced. We also play a key role in monitoring water industry investment programmes, including the delivery of Asset Management Plans (AMPs), and provide expert input into Ofwat's Price Reviews to help secure environmental improvements and long-term benefits for customers and the environment.

Joining the team means becoming part of a collaborative and knowledgeable group of specialists who are passionate about delivering evidence-based solutions, influencing national policy, and making a lasting difference to Wales' natural environment. What you will do Lead and project manage specific and complex issues, including support on casework that is novel, contentious or of high public interest in relation to our approach to modelling water quality impacts.

Provide statutory advice to WG and other bodies in Wales and the UK as appropriate, and in-turn review and advise on the produced policy, plans and strategies. Retain ownership and oversight of NRW water quality modelling policy to ensure integrity with Welsh Government, Central Government and EU Policy intent. Ensure appropriate liaison with the Environment Agency, academic institutions and other water quality modelling experts in Wales and the UK to promote consistency where required in cross border catchments, develop best practice and maintain expertise by growing a professional network.

Lead the requirements for, and commission the assessment of, water quality models and plans, including providing or commissioning audits. Acting as the intelligent client for these assessments as appropriate. Advise on evidence needs and opportunities, commission evidence and project manage agreed evidence projects, in line with the agreed evidence programme. Maintain and…