Geoscience Support Technician
UKRI - NERC - BGS
This role is based at the BGS headquarters in Keyworth, Nottingham
Pay Band B - salary range is £20,129 to £21,879 (depending on qualifications and experience)
Full-time - 37 hours a week
Permanent
Closing date: 19th March 2023
A great benefits package is also offered, including an outstanding pension scheme, 30 days annual leave plus bank holidays, and access to flexi-time
About the role
The British Geological Survey (BGS) is inviting applications for the exciting role of Geoscience Support Technician to join our Shallow Geohazards and Earth Observations Team in Keyworth, Nottingham.
The team are UK-leading experts on multi-scale and multi-parameter imaging and characterisation of shallow subsurface properties and processes. Our research aim is to enable sustainable development of buildings and infrastructure, and to enhance the resilience of people, property, and places to shallow geohazards, through a better understanding of opportunities and risks within the ground.
The techniques we use range from: satellite and drone imagery; to in situ geophysical and geotechnical surveying and monitoring; and high pressure and temperature laboratory experiments. Another core activity of our research is the development of critical national-scale databases for shallow geohazards and on the physical and mechanical properties of UK rock and soil formations.
Our rese arch outputs are delivered in a variety of formats (e.g. reports, peer reviewed scientific papers, maps and datasets) and are used by the public, and private and public sector bodies, to support their decision-making processes.
The key duties/responsibilities of this role will include:
- Data entry and analysis: supporting the attribution, management and querying of national-scale databases for geotechnical properties, landslides, and karst hazards.
- Fieldwork: supporting engineering geology and geophysics staff to undertake material sampling, install monitoring equipment, and conduct in situ testing and surveying.
- Laboratory experiments: supporting engineering geology and geophysics staff to prepare samples and analyse the physical and mechanical properties of soils and rocks.
The successful candidate for this varied and interesting role can expect to:
- Develop an understanding of the fundamental properties and behaviour of rock a nd soils, and shallow geohazard processes.
- Develop skills in the application of Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and geospatial database software.
- Learn how to undertake standard and novel procedures for material sampling, in situ geotechnical testing and geophysical surveying.
- Learn how to undertake standard and novel laboratory procedures for sample preparation and testing of soils and rocks for geotechnical and geophysical properties.
About you
You will have 3 A-levels at grades A to C including in at least one of Maths or Physics (or equivalent T-Levels/NVQs); alternatively, you will have a good level of work experience providing technical support within the earth science or civil engineering sector for data management, laboratory and/or site-based sampling and testing instead.
Desirable, but not essential, would be: additional relevant work experience (as outlined above); A-Levels (or equivalent) in Geology, Geography or Chemistry; an undergraduate degree in Earth Science, Physics, Civil Engineering, or a closely related subject.
You will have good IT skills and be a proficient user of Microsoft Word and Excel (or equivalent software). Desirable, but not essential, would be the ability to use Microsoft Access (or equivalent), GIS software (e.g. ArcGIS, QGIS, etc) and knowledge of some programming languages (e.g. R, MATLAB, Python, JavaScript, etc).
We are looking for someone who is enthusiastic to learn new skills and develop a career in geoscience, both through formal and on-the-job training. Teamworking and practical problem-solving skills are also essential, as is the ability to manage your time and adapt to changing priorities.
Although the position is primarily office-based (data entry/analysis and laboratory work), fieldwork will play an important part of the role. You will be required to travel and work away from your home for fieldwork, which may include so me overnight stays and there will be opportunities to be involved in occasional overseas visits as part of BGS's international programme. An enthusiasm for outdoor work (including in all weather conditions) is therefore essential. A full UK driving license would be desirable.
Please also refer to the additional specific essential and desirable skills criteria for this post.
About us
The British Geological Survey (BGS) is an applied geoscience research centre that belongs to UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) and is affiliated to the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC). It is a world leading geological survey whose core mission is to advise government of science related to the subsurface and to undertake applied research to solve earth and environmental issues, both in the UK and globally. It is funded directly by UKRI, as well as through research grants and private sector contracts.
BGS has an annual budget of approximately £60 m illion and employs 650 people. It has two main sites: a head office in Keyworth near Nottingham, and the Lyell Centre, which is a collaboration with Heriot Watt University in Edinburgh. BGS works with more than 150 private sector organisations, has close links with 40 universities, and sponsors approximately 100 PhD students each year.
We strive to promote equality and diversity across our organisation in order to continuously improve our scientific and organisational efficiency. As such, we aim to have a workforce with employees from all backgrounds with people who are passionate about earth science and who share our dedication to work for the good of the environment and the benefit of society.
How to apply
Applicants are required to include a cover letter outlining their suitability for this role. We would stress the importance of this paperwork in our selection process.
A well thought through application addressing the adv ertised essential and desirable criteria for the post will be considered far more favourably than a generic covering letter and CV.
The closing date for receipt of applications is 19th March 2023. Interviews will be held in late March 2023 in Nottingham.
