Job description
Ready to shape the future of environmental protection?
The Graduate Programme at the Environment Agency is your gateway to a meaningful and impactful career. Over four years, you’ll gain hands-on experience, develop expertise, and work towards professional chartership while tackling some of the UK’s most critical environmental challenges. Whether your focus is in environmental science, flood risk management, or business and communications, this programme is designed to set you on the path to becoming a leader in your field.
Why Choose the Environment Agency?
At the Environment Agency, we’re committed to making the environment better for future generations. As a graduate trainee, you’ll work on projects that drive real-world impact while developing the skills and experience to thrive in your career.
Here’s why this programme is unique:
- Professional Growth: Access structured training and support to build your expertise and confidence.
- Meaningful Work: Contribute to critical projects in areas like climate change, flood risk management, and sustainability.
- Future-Ready Skills: Gain the technical, analytical, and leadership abilities needed to shape a successful career.
"The graduate scheme gave me the chance to work on projects that align with my values while developing my skills and gaining a better understanding of the environmental sector." – Graduate Trainee
As a graduate, you’ll rotate across different teams and projects, allowing you to:
- Work on initiatives like climate change adaptation, flood risk management, and environmental restoration.
- Collaborate with experts on critical research, data analysis, and environmental assessments.
- Participate in site visits to understand the practical aspects of environmental protection and sustainability.
- Develop reports, strategies, and solutions to address pressing environmental challenges.
- Build a portfolio of work that demonstrates your skills and achievements.
Training and development
The Graduate Programme is structured to support your growth and professional accreditation:
- Professional Institute Membership: Join a recognised institute like CIWEM (Chartered Institution of Water and Environmental Management) or IEMA (Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment), with membership fees covered by the Environment Agency.
- Chartership Goals: Work towards achieving chartership with your chosen institute by the end of the four-year programme by completing 30 hours of CPD (continuous professional development) per year and demonstrating key competencies.
- Comprehensive Training: Access technical courses, leadership development programmes, and tailored learning opportunities that align with your role and aspirations.
- Hands-On Learning: Gain practical experience through collaborative projects, site visits, and engagement with stakeholders.
How we’ll support you
We’re dedicated to ensuring your success. Throughout the programme, you’ll benefit from:
- Guidance from Mentors: Receive tailored advice and support from experienced professionals.
- Graduate Network: Join a community of fellow trainees to share experiences, collaborate on projects, and build lasting connections.
- Flexible Working: Take advantage of hybrid working arrangements that support a healthy work-life balance.
- Diverse Networks: Connect with inclusion-focused groups such as the Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic (BAME) Network, LGBTQ+ communities, and more.
What we’re offering
The Environment Agency offers a supportive, inclusive culture where you can thrive. As a graduate trainee, you’ll enjoy:
- A structured programme tailored to your career aspirations.
- Opportunities to contribute to meaningful projects with real-world impact.
- Perks such as subsidised sports events, health services (including free eye tests), and discounts on shopping, travel, and leisure.
- A starting salary of £29,505 if you hold a relevant BSc/BSc (Hons) or BA/BA(Hons) degree, or £30,242 if you have a relevant MSc degree (or PhD).
Join the Graduate Training Programme in September 2025 and take the first step towards a fulfilling career that protects and transforms the environment for generations to come.
"The support I’ve received from mentors and my fellow graduates has been invaluable. The programme encourages collaboration and provides opportunities to learn from others across the organisation." – Graduate Trainee (2024)
What we are looking for
- Motivated and passionate: Committed to protecting the environment and making a difference.
- Effective communicators: Confident in collaborating and engaging with others.
- Innovative problem-solvers: Eager to tackle challenges and deliver solutions.
- Curious and adaptable: Ready to embrace learning opportunities and grow professionally.
- Degree course: Students or recent graduates ideally with a STEM background or have a strong interest in the environment.
We value diversity and encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, especially those from underrepresented communities.
Accepted degree subjects
- environmental science and ecology
- electronic and electrical engineering
- aerospace engineering
- engineering management
- computer sciences and information technology
- civil engineering and construction
- transport engineering
- agricultural sciences
- materials science
- mechanical engineering
- geology and geography
Additional job details
- Location
- Birmingham
- Blandford Forum
- Bridgwater
- Bristol
- Exeter
- Fradley
- Ipswich
- Leeds
- Manchester
- Newcastle upon Tyne
- Nottingham
- Penrith
- Peterborough
- Reading
- Sheffield
- Shrewsbury
- Spalding
- Tewkesbury
- Warrington
- Welwyn Garden City
- West Malling
- York
- Salary
- £29,505
- Contract, dates and working times
- Permanent
Full-time
How to apply
Click Apply to start your application now. This job will be available on Prospects until 4 February 2025
Don't forget to mention Prospects to employers when you contact them.
Closing date: 4 February 2025