Job Description

Nuclear Restoration Services Limited (NRS) is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA). NRS is responsible for decommissioning first generation nuclear power stations Berkeley, Bradwell, Chapelcross, Dungeness A, Hinkley Point A, Hunterston A, Oldbury, Sizewell A, Trawsfynydd and Wylfa, and research sites Harwell and Winfrith. NRS is also responsible for electricity generation at hydroelectric plant Maentwrog. As a division of NRS, NRS Dounreay is responsible for the clean-up and demolition of the former centre of fast reactor research and development.



NRS is an exciting place to be, and this role is the perfect opportunity for you to be part of our challenging mission - to safely and successfully manage the UK's civil nuclear legacy on behalf of the nation. To deliver our commitment, we need people like you who want to perform at an industry leading standard and be part of a team that continues to develop, innovate and even exceed our greatest achievements.



At NRS, we understand, and acknowledge the value of an inclusive working environment, and celebrate the diversity this brings to our workplace. Without this approach, we wouldn't be in the position that we are now, being able to safeguard and secure the future of our organisation.



About the role

Hear from the Hiring Manager:

"Hunterston A EHSS&Q function are seeking an enthusiastic, industry experienced Assistant Analytical Radiochemist. Your technical knowledge and practical skills will support radiological and environmental safety at site, protecting colleagues and the environment from radioactivity while also supporting the delivery of the site's mission of safe, secure and sustainable decommissioning. The successful candidate will have a leading role in the maintenance and improvement of the analytical service which secures compliance with the Nuclear Site Licence, Environmental Authorisations (Scotland) Regulations, Ionising Radiation Regulations and other legal duties.


The site is presently retrieving, packaging and conditioning multiple radioactive waste streams and working to reduce non-radiological environmental hazards. The successful candidate will be part of a multi-disciplinary team of engineering, scientific and safety professionals and will support and optimise this work through the delivery of quality analytical services and provision of authoritative radiochemical and chemical advice."

Please note that this is a site-based role and the contractual hours for this role are 07.30 - 17.15 Monday - Thursday, perfect for someone looking for a four-day working week.

Key Deliverables:

Operate the on-site Radiochemistry Laboratory, including safe and effective delivery at Hunterston A site of radiochemical analysis of gaseous, liquid and solid sample matrices and the preparation of samples destined for off-site analysis. To operate to agreed quality standards, with attention to detail to ensure robust analytical results Calibration and function checking of laboratory equipment including gamma spectrometers and Liquid Scintillation Counters, liaising with contractors to support this work as required. Develop, validate and implement new radiochemistry processes and ensure continuous improvement of existing arrangements. Develop the team of laboratory technicians Provision of instructions and training for others to undertake work in lab areas. Provision of advice on sampling requirements. Monitor laboratory performance and take action or provide advice as necessary to maintain and improve plant performance. Non radiological environmental monitoring, assessment of non-radioactive properties of radioactive samples and demonstration of compliance with SEPA permits. Contribute to the effective development and delivery of training within own area of specialism. Interface with corporate Chemistry and Radiochemistry experts Identify relevant good practice in performance at other NRS sites and externally, promulgating this across the Projects/Hunterston A Site.

Qualifications & Experience:

A minimum of a degree or equivalent qualification in Chemistry (essential). Member of a relevant professional institute (desirable). Relevant experience in specialism related roles (essential). Experience at a nuclear site in own specialism (desirable).

Benefits Package

Nuclear Restoration Services Limited (NRS) staff should refer to the document titled "Spot Point v Grade alignment" available on SharePoint for more information on how the grade structure aligns to Spot Points. Flexible working - where possible. The equivalent of 25 days (185 hours per year) annual leave plus Public Holidays (59.2 hours per year). This increases by 2 days (14.8 hours per year) annual leave after two full calendar years of service (as at 5th January in the leave year) , and an additional 3 days (22.2 hours per year) annual leave after five full calendar years of service (as at 5th January in the leave year). You also have the option to buy or sell the equivalent of 5 days (37 hours) annual leave each year (available in specific windows for the following holiday year). For the purpose of assessing an employee's annual leave entitlement, a day means seven and two fifths (7.4) hours. A pro rata entitlement will apply for part time workers. Flexible benefits scheme - including cycle to work and reduced gym membership fees. Participation in our Company Bonus Scheme (up to 5,750 per annum based on corporate objectives). Employee Assistance Programme including 24-hour telephone support & personal assistance service and access to an online wellbeing App. Up to 13.5% employer pension contribution depending on individual contribution amount. Enhanced maternity and paternity pay (dependent on service). Access to training and development through the company performance management arrangements, supporting you in maintaining your personal Continuous Professional Development. We have various different employee networks supporting our inclusion, diversity and wellbeing mission at Nuclear Restoration Services Limited (NRS).

Additional Information

Please be aware this role holder requires security clearance, or the ability to obtain said clearance.



There is a requirement to live within a commutable distance to the sites where the role is based. For central/multi-site roles, we have various hubs across the UK and can be flexible with base location.



We value the unique differences that each of our colleagues bring to work every day and are committed to creating an environment where everyone feels respected, included and able to perform at their best.



At Nuclear Restoration Services Limited (NRS), we are committed to creating a workplace that is diverse and inclusive, we therefore particularly welcome applications from Women, Black, Asian and Ethnic Minorities, LGBT+ and candidates with a disability as they are all underrepresented in our workforce.



We are happy to talk flexible working where possible.