Principal Hydrogeologist

A great benefits package is offered including an outstanding pension scheme (with an extremely generous employer contribution – on average 27% of your pay), 30 days annual leave plus bank holidays

Full-time – 37 hours a week or part-time (some flexible working options may be available, including some remote working, in line with BGS policy)

BGS headquarters in Keyworth in Nottingham

Closing date: 16 March 2025

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Principal Hydrogeologist providing science leadership and project management for UK hydrogeology within the BGS Groundwater group. The main focus will be leading and managing the BGS component of the NERC FDRI Programme, the largest investment in UK hydrology for a generation providing innovative monitoring to help resilience to floods and droughts. The BGS work involves overseeing the development of groundwater monitoring infrastructure in a chalk catchment in southeast England and two upland catchment in Scotland and Wales.  Regular travel within the UK will be essential.   In addition, the post holder will be expected to manage a variety of BGS Groundwater projects mostly related to UK hydrogeology, developing and leading research for the EA, DEFRA and the Water Industry, and developing and maintaining strong networks within the UK Groundwater community.

We are looking for a highly experienced and motivated hydrogeologist with extensive experience of UK hydrogeology and of managing large complex groundwater projects. With a post graduate qualification in a relevant science area (or equivalent comparable work experience), you will have significant experience working within the groundwater sector.  Experience of project (including budgetary management), people management and the leadership of challenging and/or change situations are all essential.  You will have experience of groundwater research, having designed projects to answer societal issues and a track record of sharing this knowledge through publications and presentations. 

The post involves extensive team working; therefore, you should be able to work effectively with others, and be confident leading staff, in a strong multidisciplinary environment, and have very good time management skills. 

While we welcome both international and national applications, experience of UK hydrogeology is essential. 

Essential requirements

• University degree in Geoscience, Civil Engineering, or Mathematics together with MSc or PhD in Hydrogeology (S)
• Experience of managing large complex groundwater projects (S&I)
• People management experience and skills (S&I)
• Significant experience in managing and carrying out hydrogeological field programmes (S&I)
• A strong record of writing reports for clients (S&I)
• Knowledge and extensive experience of UK Hydrogeology (S&I)
• Ability to prioritise work and meet tight deadlines (S&I)
• Organisational talent, diligence, and attention to detail (S&I)
• Demonstrates an enthusiasm for the work of BGS and our core values of impact, impartiality, and knowledge (I)
• You will be committed to a diverse and inclusive approach to work in the geosciences (S&I) 

Desirable requirements

• Project management qualifications (S)
• A strong scientific / research profile with commensurate record of publication and presentation (I)
• Experience of setting up groundwater monitoring networks (I) 

A well thought through application providing evidence and examples of how you meet the advertised essential and desirable criteria for the post will be considered far more favourably than a generic covering letter and CV. 

If you experience any issues applying for this role, please contact Recruitment@ukri.org.

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