Hiring and Sponsoring Chemical Scientists (SOC Code 2111)

Chemical scientists, categorized under SOC Code 2111, play a pivotal role in industries ranging from pharmaceuticals to environmental science. Their work involves analyzing substances, developing new materials, and conducting groundbreaking research that can lead to advances in technology, medicine, and industry. As demand for skilled chemical scientists continues to grow, many UK employers are looking to recruit talent from overseas. This guide will help HR professionals navigate the process of hiring and sponsoring chemical scientists under the UK’s immigration system.

What is SOC Code 2111 for Chemical Scientists?

SOC Code 2111 refers to chemical scientists who conduct research, analyze materials, and develop new products or methods in a variety of sectors, including pharmaceuticals, environmental science, and industrial manufacturing. Their responsibilities include:

• Conducting experiments: Testing and analyzing chemical compounds and reactions.
• Developing new materials: Creating innovative products or processes that improve industrial practices.
• Analyzing substances: Studying chemicals and materials to understand their properties and uses.
• Research and development: Leading or participating in R&D projects to drive innovation.
• Ensuring safety compliance: Making sure laboratory practices meet safety and environmental regulations.

Chemical scientists are critical in driving innovation and ensuring product safety across many industries.

Eligibility to Hire Chemical Scientists (SOC Code 2111)

When hiring chemical scientists from outside the UK, it’s essential to ensure that both the role and the candidates meet the eligibility criteria under the Skilled Worker Visa program.

1. Job Requirements

Chemical scientists must meet specific qualifications and experience requirements to be eligible for sponsorship. These may include:

• Academic qualifications: A degree in chemistry, chemical engineering, or a related field.
• Professional experience: Practical experience in laboratory research, analysis, or product development.
• Skills: Proficiency in laboratory techniques, data analysis, and safety protocols.

Ensure that the job description aligns with SOC Code 2111 and that the candidate's qualifications are suitable for the role.

2. Salary Thresholds

To sponsor a chemical scientist under the Skilled Worker Visa, the job must meet the minimum salary threshold set by the UK Home Office. The general minimum salary threshold is £26,200 per year or the "going rate" for the role—whichever is higher.

Since chemical scientists are on the Immigration Salary List, this reduces the salary threshold to 80% of the usual minimum. This means the minimum salary requirement for chemical scientists is £20,960 per year.

Use the Minimum Salary Calculator to ensure your salary offer meets immigration requirements.

3. Immigration Salary List

Chemical scientists are listed on the Immigration Salary List, which makes the sponsorship process more accessible for employers. Benefits include:

• Lower salary thresholds: Reduced to 80% of the usual requirement.
• Reduced visa fees: Lower costs for sponsoring a chemical scientist.

For more details, refer to the immigration salary list.

Sponsoring Chemical Scientists: A Step-by-Step Guide for HR Professionals

Once you've confirmed that the role and candidate meet the eligibility criteria, follow these steps to sponsor chemical scientists under SOC Code 2111.

Step 1: Obtain a Sponsor Licence

Before you can hire non-UK workers, your organisation must apply for a sponsor licence. This licence allows you to legally sponsor overseas workers under the Skilled Worker Visa program.

• Sponsor Licence Application: Submit the required documentation proving your business is legitimate and that you have a genuine vacancy. Visit the sponsor licence application guide for more details.
• Sponsor Licence Fees: Fees vary based on company size. Small businesses typically pay £536, while larger companies pay £1,476. For more details, visit the sponsor licence fees guide.
• Processing Time: Applications typically take up to 8 weeks, but the Sponsor Licence Priority Service can expedite this to 10 working days.

Once approved, you'll receive a sponsor licence number, allowing you to issue Certificates of Sponsorship (CoS) to candidates.

Step 2: Assign a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)

After obtaining your sponsor licence, the next step is to assign a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) to the chemical scientist. This digital document contains key details about the role and the worker being sponsored.

• Defined vs Undefined CoS: Use a Defined CoS for workers applying from outside the UK and an Undefined CoS for workers already in the UK. For more details, refer to Defined & Undefined Certificates of Sponsorship.
• Required Documents: Provide key information such as the candidate’s passport, job offer, and salary details. See the Documents Required for Certificate of Sponsorship guide for a full list.

Step 3: Apply for the Skilled Worker Visa

Once the CoS has been assigned, the worker can apply for their Skilled Worker Visa.

• Visa Fees: Fees vary depending on the visa length and the role. Use the visa fees calculator to estimate the costs.
• Immigration Skills Charge: Employers are required to pay this charge, which is separate from visa fees.

Conducting a Right to Work Check for Chemical Scientists

Before the chemical scientist starts work, employers must conduct a right to work check to ensure they are legally allowed to work in the UK.

• Manual Right to Work Check: This involves verifying original documents like the candidate’s passport and visa.
• Online Right to Work Check: For candidates holding an eVisa, employers can use the UK government's online system to verify their status.

Refer to the right to work check guide for further instructions.

Post-Hiring Responsibilities and Compliance

Hiring a chemical scientist involves ongoing compliance with UK immigration regulations to maintain your sponsor licence.

1. Record-Keeping and Reporting

• Record-Keeping: Keep accurate and up-to-date records of the sponsored worker’s employment, salary, and contact information.
• Reporting Changes: Report significant changes to the worker’s role or employment status, such as promotions or salary adjustments, through the Sponsor Management System (SMS).

2. Sponsor Licence Duties and Compliance

To avoid penalties or sponsor licence revocation, it’s critical to comply with your sponsor licence duties.

How Borderless Can Help with Sponsoring Chemical Scientists

Sponsoring chemical scientists under SOC Code 2111 can be a complex process, but Borderless simplifies it by offering full-service support for HR professionals.

End-to-End Sponsorship Support

Borderless can assist with:

• Sponsor Licence Application: Helping you submit all necessary documentation correctly and on time.
• Certificate of Sponsorship Assignment: Streamlining the CoS process for efficient hiring.
• Compliance Management: Ensuring your company remains compliant with Home Office regulations to avoid penalties.

If you need assistance with the sponsorship process, get in touch for personalised guidance.

Conclusion

Hiring and sponsoring chemical scientists under SOC Code 2111 is an essential step for many businesses in the UK’s science and technology sectors. By following the steps outlined in this guide, your organisation can navigate the sponsorship process efficiently while ensuring compliance with immigration laws.

For more detailed support, Borderless is here to help you manage the entire sponsorship process. Contact us for expert advice and assistance with your hiring needs.