Affinity Water is the UK's largest water-only supplier, providing sustainable, high-quality water to 3.9 million customers.  We are are looking for a Catchment Scientist to support this vital programme of Catchment Risk Assessments which support our Drinking Water Safety Plans, carry out water quality investigations and respond to pollution incidents, and contribute to the development of catchment and nature-based solutions under the Water Industry National Environment Programme (WINEP).

A key focus of your work will be tackling emerging water quality risks – including PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), often referred to as “forever chemicals.” You’ll lead investigations to trace the sources and pathways of contaminants, conduct fieldwork, and help shape long-term remediation strategies alongside external partners.

What you’ll be doing

• Lead and manage PFAS-related catchment investigations, including planning, delivery, stakeholder engagement, and reporting.
• Conduct fieldwork such as water quality sampling and groundwater level monitoring.
• Use GIS, statistical analysis, and cost-benefit assessments to interpret environmental data and support decision-making.
• Liaise with regulators, farmers, landowners, industry, consultants, and environmental groups to deliver catchment solutions.
• Contribute to regulatory reporting and audits for DWI and the Environment Agency.
• Represent Affinity Water and speak at public events, workshops, and stakeholder meetings.

What we’re looking for

• A BA/BSc degree (or equivalent) in a scientific or environmental discipline.
• Experience using GIS software and Microsoft Office tools (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
• Strong communication skills with the ability to clearly present technical information.
• A self-starter with the ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Proven ability to manage relationships and influence stakeholders.
• A project management qualification or PM work experience 

Why join us?

At Affinity Water, you’ll work alongside passionate environmental professionals committed to protecting water resources and delivering long-term sustainability. You’ll have the opportunity to develop your skills, work on meaningful projects, and influence real environmental outcomes across our supply region.

Benefits

• Salary £30,000 - 40,000 per annum based on experience
• Hybrid role, with the expectations of a minimum two days a week in the office in Hatfield
• Annual leave from 26 days rising with length of service, and the option to purchase up to 5 extra days.
• A ‘Celebration Day’ in addition to public holidays that people can use to celebrate a religious festival or other occasion that is important to them.
• A generous 'double match pension scheme' that doubles the contributions you make (company contribution capped at 12%)
• We offer a range of family benefits including enhanced Maternity, Adoption, Paternity, Shared Parental Leave, Fertility Support Leave and up to 5 full or 10 half days of paid Carers Leave.
• Menopause policy and Reasonable Adjustment policy to help everyone perform at their best.
• Access to our Wellbeing Centre with support for looking after your physical and mental health.
• Discounts at a Range of Retail Outlets and on Dental and Medical Insurance through our Tap4Perks scheme.
• Up to 4 Affinity days a year to volunteer in the community.
• Life Assurance.
• Disability Confident

If you need any reasonable adjustments and would like to apply in a different format, please do let us know.

Affinity Water recognises the benefits of greater diversity in our workforce to better reflect the communities we serve. We are committed to building a more inclusive culture where every member of our workforce can thrive.

You can find out what it’s like to work at Affinity Water through our career site https://www.affinitywatercareers.co.uk/ where our colleagues share their career development stories and you can get a feel for our company culture.