Research Scientist/Engineer

Sludge Energy Team or Wastewater Process Team

Job Description
Two roles are available in two related areas within the Research, Development and Innovation team, both of which have an interest in the operation and management of wastewater and sludge treatment plants. Our team’s activities are wide-ranging and include:
* lab, pilot and demonstration scale trials
* full scale implementation
* collaborative projects with water and technology companies as well as universities

Sludge & Energy team focuses on identifying those sustainable processes or technologies that will provide with enhanced efficiency both in terms of biogas generation and reduction in end product disposal.
Wastewater Process team focuses on delivering sustainable solutions to ensure our wastewater treatment works are resilient and energy efficient.

The roles will include many of the following elements:
* Working with recognised experts on projects of real relevance to the water industry.
* Installation and monitoring of demonstration plants on operational sites, including setting up and carrying out experiments and the development of new technology.
* Managing sampling programmes at various location within London / Thames Valley.
* Compilation of literature reviews, feasibility studies and technical reports.
* Data manipulation and analysis.
* Involvement in technical meetings and presentations.
* Supervision of third parties carrying out key project tasks.
* Meeting and liaising with technical experts.
* Working outside throughout the whole year carrying out testing regimes.
* Supporting the team with general maintenance and administrative tasks so that you understand how a research centre is managed.

This placement offers the opportunity for the student to become a fully contributing member of the Research, Development and Innovation team. Placement students working with us in the past have enjoyed being part of a dynamic team. The students will be expected to manage their own time and tasks, and will be responsible for reporting progress to supervisors.

Person Requirements
Education & Knowledge
* The roles are open to undergraduate students who are looking to carry out a year-in-industry or Professional Training Year as part of a relevant degree
* You should be studying a STEM subject and be interested in how different disciplines interact in the water treatment environment. Suitable subjects include: mechanical engineering, civil engineering, process engineering, chemical engineering, materials science, environmental science or other natural science
* Should be working towards 2:1 (minimum requirement)
* An interest in the water industry
* Knowledge of this field of work would be an advantage
* Participation in the Duke of Edinburgh Award or similar (Desirable)
* Previous relevant working experience (Desirable)
* Personal achievements relevant to this position

General
* High standard of oral and written communication skills (English language)
* Good numeracy skills
* Competent with Word and Excel
* High level of initiative and self-motivation
* Willingness to work some unsociable hours
* Able to work safely without direct supervision
* A sense of humour
* A full driving licence
* Problem solving skills
* Good team working skills
* Ability to work with minimum supervision to deliver to time and quality

Quick Info
Ref No: T004SP
Type:
12 Month Student/Industrial Placement
Salary: £18,500pa pro-rata (53 weeks)
Holiday Entitlement: 26 days plus bank holidays
Working with:
Sludge Energy Team or Wastewater Process Team
Location: Reading, Berkshire
Start Date: Summer 2019
No of vacancies: 2

Closing Date of Applications:
 31st January 2019

Company
Thames Water Utilities Limited is the UK’s largest water and wastewater services company with over 4,000 employees providing service round the clock to 15 million customers across London and the Thames Valley.

👉 www.thameswater.co.uk

Application Process
Please quote: Ref No: T004SP
Please submit:
1) CV – Education Section: Please provide Degree Course, modules and grades achieved and expected grades. Maximum 2 sides of A4
2) Covering Letter – explaining why you are applying for this particular role and team, what you can contribute and what benefits Thames Water will gain from your participation in their placement scheme. Maximum 600 words
3) Personal Statement – listing your strengths, your achievements and sharing your career aspirations. This should be a small, bite-size representation of who you are as a professional, and what you have to offer in terms of experience and ambition. Maximum 100 words

Initial interviews may be carried out by telephone, with a follow-up 30-45 min personal interview at their Reading office, if successful.

A test may need to be completed on the day of the personal interview.

–Interviews will be taken place w/c 11th February 2019.

** We advise you to apply early

Roles available within other Thames Water RD&I teams  

Research Scientist/Engineer – T002N

Working with: 
Wastewater Network or Water Network
Location: Reading, Berkshire (WasteWater Networks) – Feltham, Middlesex (Water Network)
Salary:£18,500pa pro-rata (53 weeks)
Start Date:
 Summer 2019
No of vacancies: 2

Research Scientist/Engineer – T003T

Working with: Water Treatment Team
Location: Feltham, Middlesex
Salary: £18,500pa pro-rata (53 weeks)
Start Date: Summer 2019
No of vacancies: 2