SEPA’s Flood Risk Science Programme: new opportunities for science and engineering graduates

Introduction

SEPA is working in partnership with Stirling and Dundee University to train the flood risk scientists of the future.  Ten trainees were appointed in 2009, and we intend to appoint a further 10 in 2010 and 2011 respectively.  The trainees will work part-time for SEPA and will be funded by SEPA to study part-time (over two years) for a Masters (MSc) at the University of Dundee or Stirling.

Trainee Posts

Successful applicants will be employed by SEPA on a two year fixed-term contract. It is anticipated that they will work part-time (0.5 Full Time Equivalent) as a Trainee on the Flood Risk Science Programme.  The work pattern of the successful applicants will be flexible to allow them to attend the required classes at University and complete one of the following Masters courses part-time (over two years):

  • MSc Sustainable catchment management at the University of Dundee
  • MSc River basin management at the University of Stirling

SEPA will pay the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) fees and a proportion of the stipend associated with the Masters course.  During their time at SEPA, staff will be trainees on the flood risk science programme1 and gain direct flood risk management work experience and training, to include hydrometry, flood risk assessment and mapping, flood warning, river basin management planning, water resources and Geographical Information Systems (GIS).

The completion of a MSc combined with work experience as a Trainee is intended to prepare candidates for a flooding related post with SEPA.  It is anticipated that SEPA will offer graduates a permanent contract upon successful completion of the MSc.

The successful candidates will be responsible for meeting all travel and subsistence costs between home, University and their normal SEPA place of work.  Where SEPA requires employees to travel from their normal place of work on SEPA business, travel and subsistence costs will be reimbursed in accordance with the SEPA policy.

For further information on the Trainee role please click on the link below:

1 SEPA’s flood risk science programme was initiated to meet three challenges:

  • UK wide skills shortage for hydrologists.
  • Succession planning for hydrologists in Scotland and the need to bring new scientists on board.
  • The requirement for resources to implement new duties under the Flood Risk Management (Scotland) Bill and EU Floods Directive.

Salary & Benefits

  • Starting salary £23,059 (pro rata) within SEPA’s Trainee Band, currently £23,059-£23,614 per annum.  Based on 0.5FTE, actual salary on appointment would be £11,529.50 per annum. 
  • 28 days annual leave (pro rata) rising to 32 days (pro rata) on completion of 5 years reckonable service.
  • 7 public holidays (pro rata).
  • Entitlement to join Local Government Pension Scheme which is a final salary pension scheme.  Contribution rates are linked to salary.
  • Flexi-time scheme.
  • Childcare voucher scheme.
  • Cycle to work scheme.

Study Options

University of Stirling

MSc in River Basin Management includes modules in:

  • river basin management;
  • environmental systems and assessments;
  • environmental policy and management;
  • environmental economics;
  • information technology.

Further information available at www.external.stir.ac.uk/postgrad/course_info/nat_science/aquacult/river-basin-man.php

University of Dundee

MSc in Sustainable Catchment Management includes modules in:

  • hydrology and catchment management;
  • environmental risk and quality;
  • elements of water and law practise

Further information available at www.dundee.ac.uk/postgraduate/courses/sustainable_catchment_management_msc.htm

How to apply

Download the following forms:

  • Application Form - WORD word link image (245k), PDF pdf link (41k)
  • Equal Opportunities Form - WORD word link image (387k), PDF pdf link (181k)

Please ensure both the application form and equal opportunities forms are submitted.

To apply you will need a minimum of a second class honours degree in a relevant subject including geography, earth sciences, environmental science, civil engineering or ecology. 

Completed application forms should be emailed to recruitment@sepa.org.uk or posted to Human Resources at the address below by 11th June 2010.

If you have any queries, please contact Human Resources:

  • HR Department
    SEPA Corporate Office
    Erskine Court
    Castle Business Park
    STIRLING
    FK9 4TR

    Tel: 01786 455900
    Fax: 01786 474889

    Email: hr@sepa.org.uk

Candidates who apply to the MSc courses through this route, and are successful at interview will automatically be offered a place on a university course.  There is no need for applicants to separately apply to the university.

Other funding routes are available for the MSc courses at the University of Dundee and Stirling.  Further information is available on the university’s websites (links above).