Somerset Council
Assistant Scientist & Sampling Officer
How your CV stacks up
Upload your CV to see how well it fits this job role
?%
Assistant Scientist & Sampling Officer
Salary: Grade 15 - £24,796 to £25,185 per annum
Closing Date: 12 August 2026
Join Somerset Scientific Services and play a hands-on role in protecting public health and the environment across Somerset.
As an Assistant Scientist & Sampling Officer, you'll split your time between environmental sampling at a variety of locations and supporting laboratory testing that underpins vital monitoring programmes and statutory services.
Working within a small, dedicated team, you'll make a genuine difference every day, helping to deliver high-quality scientific services for communities, businesses, and Council partners.
This is an excellent opportunity to build a career in applied science while contributing to essential services, including environmental monitoring and private water supply testing, that Somerset Council has a responsibility to provide.
What You’ll Do – Key Responsibilities
- Support environmental, water, and gas sampling activities across a wide range of locations, ensuring accurate and safe collection of samples.
- Assist with laboratory operations, including sample preparation, testing processes, equipment preparation, and maintaining accurate records.
- Maintain laboratory and operational systems that support the tracking, processing, and reporting of scientific samples.
- Contribute to the planning and coordination of site visits, operational documentation, and health and safety processes.
- Support the delivery of scientific services for both Council services and external clients, helping to ensure regulatory and contractual commitments are met.
Reasons to use Rodeo
Start with a chat, not a search bar
Grad scheme, placement, apprenticeship? Not sure what you want yet — that's fine. Your agent talks it through with you and turns "I have no idea" into a shortlist.
It searches the market for you
Every day your agent scans the market matching roles against what actually matters to you, not just keywords on a CV.
Only hits
No noise. No "maybe this fits." Just roles with a clear explanation of why they're right — and where to focus when applying.
What We’re Looking For – Knowledge, Experience, and Skills
- A background or interest in science, environmental monitoring, or laboratory-based work.
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage a varied workload.
- A practical and methodical approach, with attention to detail and a commitment to accurate record keeping.
- The ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a busy operational environment.
- A willingness to work in outdoor environments as well as laboratory settings.
- Ability to travel to a variety of locations across Somerset as required.
Get help with your application
Your very own career expert that helps elevate your application to the next level.
Additional Information
In return, we offer a rewarding career with Somerset Council, including:
- 28 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays.
- Permanent, full-time position working 37 hours per week.
- Work base at Westpark, Wellington.
- A comprehensive benefits package that supports your health, wellbeing, and career development.
- The opportunity to work as part of a professional scientific service that makes a real difference to communities and the environment across Somerset.
Please note: We are unable to offer sponsorship for this role.
For an informal chat about the role, please contact Darren Clark, Service Manager at darren.clark@somerset.gov.uk.
“It took my CV and asked me questions relevant to understanding what kind of jobs to suggest for me. Suggestions were almost perfect. Jobs were exactly what I’ve been looking for.”
Jessica, London
Skills