Schemes
Science & Engineering
On the Science and Engineering Fast Stream you’ll help shape government policy and decision-making using the best scientific and engineering knowledge and techniques
Duration
3 years
Salary
£28k
Location
UK-wide
About
Society faces many challenges where science can provide solutions. As a Science and Engineering Fast Streamer you could be working on issues as diverse as climate change, health science, defence and security, energy technology, and transport innovation. You'll be responsible for making sure that the best science and engineering advice is applied to the government’s work.
Whatever your scientific or engineering background, you’ll apply your skills and knowledge to the development and application of policies, translating often complex scientific evidence into justifiable, clear recommendations for senior-level decision makers.
Most importantly, the training and opportunities you will be offered will shape you to become future government leaders in science or engineering. You will exit the programme as confident science advisors, advocating for the value that science and engineering brings to the government’s work.
Requirements
- Eligible to work in the UK
- You need, or expect to have, a 2:1 or higher in any degree subject including degree apprenticeships
- And hold a doctorate or masters in any science or engineering discipline, or be a chartered engineer or scientist registered by one of the professional institutions licensed by the Engineering Council or by the Science Council. For Integrated Masters you need, or expect to have, a 2:1 or higher.
- We expect you to have secured your MSc or PHD by the time you start the programme.
What will you experience?
By the time you complete the scheme, you’ll be as comfortable in a policy or operational delivery role as you are in a technical environment. This will give you a wide choice of career options within the Civil Service, and the flexibility to switch between different types of roles.
Starting salary is £28k and if you successfully complete the scheme and are promoted, you could earn around £45k to £55k.
What do they say
Your progression through the programme
- Year
Year 1 - Building a foundation: supporting science, engineering and technical advice in government.
12 month posting. This might be working with a Chief Scientific Advisor or providing expert advice and analysis to inform a specific area of policy.
Year 2 - Broadening your outlook: gaining relevant experience outside the Civil Service.
Two, 6 month postings. The first will be a second posting in a different area of the Civil Service. The second will be a secondment outside the Civil Service. The secondment could be in the wider public sector, the private sector or even overseas, offering you new perspectives on how science and engineering inform policy.
From the end of year 2, if you successfully complete your mid-scheme assessment Development Trajectory Assessment, your salary will increase to £32,000 a year.
Year 3 - Breaking new ground: expanding your skill set, experience and expertise
Final 12-month posting. You will take on a new challenge in a different policy area within government, stepping up your leadership as you bring technical expertise and policy together. You’ll confidently take on new areas of work, drawing on the skills and competencies developed in the previous two years.
The Fast Stream makes me feel supported through my transition from university to my first job
The Fast Stream makes me feel supported through my transition from university to my first job
The Fast Stream makes me feel supported through my transition from university to my first job
Supporting your learning
You’ll receive the same core training as Generalist Fast Streamers alongside specialist training unique to the Science and Engineering Fast Stream. This specialist learning is linked to the Government Science & Engineering Profession’s career framework, and includes:
- A mixture of face-to-face training courses and e-learning packages.
- Excellent links with external industry partners and academia.
- Bespoke training opportunities aimed at addressing your specific learning needs, enabling you to broaden your understanding of science and engineering in the Civil Service.
Up to £55k
If you successfully complete the scheme and are promoted, you could earn around £45k to £55k.
What benefits will you enjoy
Other benefits include the Civil Service pension scheme, flexible working, season ticket loans, sports and social activities, child care assistance and more.
Application process
Online assessments
The online assessments consist of Work Style Questionnaires and multimedia Situational Judgement Questionnaires, Work Based Scenarios and a video interview.
You'll only move on to the next test, if you've successfully passed the previous one.
Assessment centre
If you pass the online assessments, you’ll be invited to undertake a half day assessment centre. This will be conducted virtually on line. The Fast Stream Assessment Centre (FSAC) reflects some of the key elements of a Fast Stream role and will consist of a leadership exercise, a group exercise and a written exercise. Information will be presented via an app that you will be able to access remotely.
Final selection
If you are successful at the assessment centre, you’ll be invited to take part in a final selection process.
The specialist assessments will assess your broad capabilities and motivation to be part of the profession you’ve chosen. You’ll be sent detailed guidance before the assessment to explain what is involved.