Assistant Water quality scientist​/Water quality scientist

Overview

Do you want to make a lasting impact on the health of our rivers, estuaries, and communities? Join us in tackling one of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time: water quality. Whether it's modelling the River Thames or addressing emerging chemical risks, your work will help protect ecosystems, influence national policy, and secure clean water for future generations. Be part of a passionate, nationally leading team committed to creating a more resilient and sustainable world.

This position is available full‑time or part‑time and is based in our Oxford office, with travel to other national office bases as required (Epsom, Bristol, Birmingham, Derby, Peterborough, Manchester, Glasgow, Edinburgh, Swansea).

• You will be joining an established and successful team, working with our water quality Technical Authority on the coordination and delivery of water quality investigations.
• This role will involve a mixture of fieldwork (e.g. water quality sampling, flow surveys, site walkovers) and desk‑based work, providing hands‑on support for a variety of environmental and water quality related projects.
• You will work effectively as part of a team and with other professionals (environmental scientists, engineers, planners) throughout AtkinsRéalis to provide a consistent and integrated service to our clients.
• You will champion high standards of performance, influence project development and deliver sustainable outcomes.
• You will undertake your own work to an excellent standard, and review the work of others, leading on projects and frameworks as appropriate.
• You will work closely with our clients to develop trusted relationships, supporting them in a confident, professional manner.
• You will support bid preparation and help develop new areas of business for the team.
• We will support and train you and you will be able to undertake continual professional development in accordance with the requirements of a professional institute.

• Flexible, prepared to take on new challenges and learn new skills.
• Possession of a full UK driving licence (or equivalent).
• Flexible to travel to different project sites as required.
• Experience in water quality sampling/fieldwork and data analysis methodologies is desirable.
• Degree or higher in an environmental or science subject; ideally chartered or working towards chartership.
• Good numerical and data analysis skills and good writing skills.
• Good knowledge of environmental water quality regulation (e.g. Water Framework Directive, Bathing Water Directive, SOAF, SODRP).
• Ability to develop innovative approaches in new technical areas and in data‑poor environments to support clients in decision‑making.
• High self‑motivation, strong enthusiasm, commitment to delivering sustainable outcomes and focus on technical excellence.
• Skilled collaborative worker with excellent interpersonal skills and ability to communicate effectively with different teams, clients, and stakeholders.
• Well‑organised, able to plan ahead and manage multiple projects running in parallel.
• Enjoys working outdoors, detail‑orientated, and has a strong interest in environmental / water quality science.

Enjoy competitive salaries, employee rewards, and a range of benefits that can be tailored to suit your own health, wellbeing, financial and lifestyle choices. Training and professional development opportunities are available. Our hybrid working culture and flexible holiday allowances allow you to balance a great job and a fulfilling personal life.

This role may require security clearance and offers of employment will be dependent on obtaining the relevant level of clearance. The vetting process is delivered by United Kingdom Security Vetting (UKSV) and may require proof of residency in the UK of 5 years or longer. If applying to this role please do not refer to any current or previously held security clearance in your application or CV.

We are committed to creating a culture where everyone feels that they belong – a place where we can all be ourselves, thrive and develop to be the best we can be. We offer a range of family‑friendly, inclusive employment policies, flexible working arrangements and employee resource groups to support all employees. As an Equal Opportunities Employer, we value applications from all backgrounds, cultures and ability.

As a Disability Confident Leader, we are committed to offering an interview to all applicants who have a disability and meet the essential criteria. Please let us know at the application stage if you would like to be considered under this commitment.