Job Description
As a Graduate Civil Engineer at the Environment Agency, your passion for engineering and the environment can make a real impact. Climate change is reshaping our world, and you can be at the forefront of solutions that protect communities, wildlife, and natural resources. This is your chance to launch a career that combines purpose, innovation, and real‑world impact.
Program Overview
Recently recognised as the highest new entrant onto The Times Top 100 Graduate Employers list, our Graduate Training Scheme is a structured, hands‑on programme spanning 4–5 years. It gives you the skills, experience and opportunities to become future leaders within the Environment Agency.
What You Can Expect
* Diverse Placements: 6‑12‑month rotations across teams throughout the organisation. You will work on asset management, strategic planning, site supervision and gain a holistic understanding of flood‑defence engineering projects while collaborating with specialists in Modelling, Forecasting, Natural Flood Management, National Fisheries Service and Health and Safety.
* Flexible Pathways: Your journey is tailored to your interests. Whether you are drawn to geotechnics, hydraulics or project logistics, we will combine learning opportunities to develop you as a highly effective client.
* Learning & Development: Accredited by the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE), our programme guides you toward Incorporated (IEng) and Chartered (CEng) status.
Team and Support
The strength of our scheme lies in its support networks – a dedicated team of Professional Development Advisors coordinates supervising civil engineers, delegated engineers, career mentors and peer support groups. These networks nurture engineering talent and facilitate a busy calendar of collaborative learning opportunities.
Experience & Skills Required
* Proactive, adaptable graduates who are inquisitive and self‑motivated in their professional development.
* Comfortable working collaboratively with a range of stakeholders.
* Graduate with an accredited BEng or, ideally, an MEng in Civil Engineering (or equivalent). Both degrees must be accredited by the ICE to satisfy the academic requirements for becoming either an Incorporated or Chartered Engineer.
Application Process
Shortlisting will take place in January 2026 with interviews in February/March 2026. Successful candidates will start in September 2026. Salary is £31,452 for BEng candidates (Pay Step 2) and £32,237 for MEng candidates (Pay Step 3).
Competencies
1. Achieves Results – Describe a project you delivered, how you prioritised your workload and managed setbacks to meet the deadline.
2. Works in Teams – Give an example of building relationships with a new team and working effectively together to achieve a challenging common goal.
3. Environmental Awareness – Provide an example of an engineering project that considered environmental impact. Explain how issues were identified and actions taken to mitigate them.
4. Uses Initiative – Illustrate when you identified an opportunity for improvement and describe your role in implementing change.
Other Requirements
* Successful candidates are required to hold or acquire a full UK driving licence within 6 months of starting the role.
* Role‑specific licensing and industry standards are enforced as part of the training programme.
* We are fully committed to a diverse and inclusive workforce. Flexible working patterns, including job share, are available for all vacancies.
* We have a Guaranteed Interview Policy to support applicants with a disability.
Contact & Additional Information
For questions about the scheme, email gradengineers@environment-agency.gov.uk. Some travel is required to access flood‑defence assets, development events and team meetings. All candidates must complete the Higher Education qualifications section of the application form to confirm eligibility. Further information can be found within the candidate pack.
Artificial Intelligence Statement
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. Plagiarism may result in withdrawal of application and disciplinary action.
Equal Opportunities
We are fully committed to having a diverse and inclusive workforce to reflect the communities we serve and welcome flexible working patterns for all vacancies.
#J-18808-Ljbffr