Job Description
The Environment Agency is fully committed to having an inclusive workforce that reflects the communities we serve. We don’t just talk about diversity; we seek, embrace and live it for the benefit of our staff, our communities and our environment.
We are looking for an Urban Drainage Advisor with sewer hydraulic modelling experience to join an experienced and supportive national team. This is an exciting and busy time for the wastewater sector, and you will help design and implement new regulatory approaches, enabling strategic‑change in the way we regulate and work with sewerage companies to deliver storm and emergency overflow improvement programmes.
You will apply your experience of building and using sewer hydraulic and modelling tools to inform our guidance to the sector and assure programme delivery. Working proactively with Environment Agency teams and external organisations, the role will lead the development of audit processes for water quality investigations carried out under the Storm Overflows Assessment Framework and Environment Act. You will also co‑develop training courses on Urban Pollution Management, respond to technical queries and coach staff on sewerage and water quality investigations.
The team is dispersed throughout the country. You should be able to work on your own initiative while maintaining effective communication with internal and external customers. We promote a positive, inclusive and supportive culture where everyone feels valued. We use evidence, expertise and innovation to enhance delivery, influence policy and secure resources.
Responding to incidents is a central part of what we do. You’ll have the option to take on an incident role and make yourself available to respond to incidents or provide business continuity support during an incident. This may attract additional payment and full training will be available to support you if you choose to take on an incident role.
Qualifications & Experience
* A relevant degree such as civil engineering, geography or environmental science is desirable, although alternatives may be considered as will be your demonstration of relevant continued professional experience.
* Experience of sewer modelling and/or river quality impact modelling carried out for Urban Pollution Management (UPM) studies, including model audits.
* Knowledge of environmental planning and the regulation of Water and Sewerage Companies.
* Excellent organisational skills and effective at coaching others.
* Experience of embedding new approaches into business, developing new processes through collaborative relationships across dispersed teams.
Additional Information
Office base location is flexible; you should be prepared to travel or stay overnight to attend meetings.
For further information on this role please contact phil.hulme@environment-agency.gov.uk.
Applications will be “blind” assessed using your answers to the competency questions. Interviews will be held using MS Teams during the week commencing 12th January 2026. If you consent to be recruited onto a reserve list, we’ll hold your details for 6 months and may offer you an alternative post.
Diversity & Equality
We are fully committed to having a diverse and inclusive workforce. We welcome flexible working patterns for all our vacancies, including job share. We also have a Guaranteed Interview Policy to support those with a disability who are seeking employment. Applications must meet the minimum criteria for the post.
The Environment Agency, as a Non‑Departmental Public Body, is committed to providing value for money and utilises Central Government frameworks and contracts for all external recruitment needs. For more information on becoming a supplier, visit this page.
Artificial intelligence can be a useful tool to support your application; however, all examples and statements provided must be truthful, factually accurate and taken directly from your own experience. Where plagiarism has been identified applications may be withdrawn and internal candidates may be subject to disciplinary action. Please review the appropriate use guidance on the Civil Service Careers website.
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