Laboratory Scientist - Metals

Reporting directly to the Technical Manager in their area, the Laboratory Scientist - Metals is responsible for assisting with delivering a quality service to Uisce Éireann and its customers, complying with the requirements of the Quality management system and ISO17025 standard. This will be achieved by contributing to team performance and the efficient and effective use of resources. They will participate in the day-to-day operation of the laboratory, carrying out sample preparation, analysis and reporting duties for Water and Wastewater Samples for Uisce Éireann (UÉ) as required.

The Scientific and Technical Services functional area is responsible for the national provision of operational support services to include sampling and laboratory analytics, ensuring that activities are performed in accordance with regulatory obligations to protect public health and the environment.

• Adhere to all HSQE plans, policies and procedures.
• Responsible for the analysis of clean and waste samples for chemical analyses in their area.
• Responsible for carrying out any other duties which the Technical Manager may reasonably request.
• Perform equipment trouble shooting, maintenance and checks as trained and directed, ensuring the equipment is fit for purpose, in compliance with ISO 17025.
• Undertake and participate in nonconforming work investigations according to ISO17025 and QMS requirements, as required.
• Responsible for participation in proficiency testing (PT) Schemes in their area.
• Drive cost efficiency and quality, challenging and developing solutions for improvements to existing practices and adopting industry best practice.
• Participate in the weekend and public holiday roster within the Chemistry laboratories when required, per approved rotas.
• Establish and maintain positive, professional working relationships with the Laboratory team and supporting UÉ HR policies and initiatives.
• Participate in the development, verification, and validation of new and existing methodologies for the analysis of waters, wastewaters and related samples in UÉ, as required.
• Preparation of standards and quality controls and monitoring of performance (for example, control charts, calibration curves) in their area, as required.
• Undertake and participate in risk assessments (H&S and operational) in their area, according to ISO17025, UÉ and QMS requirements, as required.
• Timely reporting, review, and authorisation of laboratory test results (including statements of conformity where applicable) in their department, in compliance with the Quality System, ISO17025 and regulatory requirements.
• Participate in internal audits according to ISO17025 and QMS requirements, as required.
• Assist with delivery of a high-quality service to UÉ and its customers, with processes complying with the requirements of the EPA, INAB, ISO17025 standards, regulatory requirements, and the management system.
• Monitor and report KPIs for processes as assigned.

• Strong analytical skills and ability to identify and analyse problems and potential improvements and propose and implement solutions
• Highly motivated individual, working to the highest professional and ethical standards and with proven ability to deliver results and communicate information to others.
• Minimum of 3 years relevant experience within their area of expertise, preferably in an ISO17025 testing laboratory or similar: Chemistry (Metals).
• Able to work to deadlines and adapt to changing conditions and ambiguity, generating effective and pragmatic solutions to new situations and problems as they are presented
• Demonstrate the ability to fix safety issues quickly and look for improvements in line with business strategy
• Third Level qualification in a Science discipline relevant to their area of expertise.
• Ability to develop effective partnerships with a wide range of stakeholders and ability to look for and listen to diverse perspectives
• Proven track record in identifying opportunities for process improvements and innovation
• Knowledge of ISO17025 accreditation process and requirements
• Demonstrate knowledge of current analytical best practices and procedures within their area of expertise: Chemistry (Metals). For example (but not limited to): ICP-MS; Water and wastewater metals (e.g. Lead, Iron, Potassium, Manganese); Mercury analysis.
• Experience of Laboratory Quality Management Systems (QMS) and Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS).

The role requires flexibility in terms of working hours as the role holder will be required to participate in standard hours working rosters to cover Laboratory operational hours of 8am to 8pm Monday to Friday. There is also a service commitment to providing laboratory cover on weekends and Public Holidays. When required to perform weekend/public holiday work this will be infrequent as part of a defined rota and in addition to the standard working week. Rostered work performed outside 8am to 8pm Monday to Friday will be remunerated as a roster participation allowance.