Overview

We are seeking an experienced advisor to join our Water Quality Permitting Strategy Team within the Environment & Business (E&B) department. This role is at the centre of the Environment Agency to improve England’s water quality, focusing on regulation of water discharge activities.

Responsibilities

• Develop permitting strategies to address complex water quality issues across industries.
• Create and embed evidence-based policies to improve regulatory outcomes.
• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to align permitting with environmental challenges.
• Streamline processes and adopt digital tools to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.
• Lead and support complex water quality permitting projects to meet legal and environmental standards.
• Develop and implement long-term strategic approaches to water regulation.
• Be customer-focused, engaging across government, other agencies, industry and environmental bodies.
• Analyse water quality data to inform policy and permitting approaches.
• Drive innovation and continuous improvement in regulatory practices.
• Be flexible and creative, sometimes working in unfamiliar territory without established processes or guidance.

Experience/skills Required

• A degree (or equivalent) in environmental science, water management, or related field.
• Strong knowledge of water quality legislation, policies and standards.
• Experience in water quality permitting, wastewater discharge regulation or environmental permitting.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills to engage with diverse stakeholders.
• Enthusiasm and experience of working collaboratively and creatively to deliver innovation.
• An ability to effectively communicate and engage people to motivate action and resolve conflicts.
• Commitment to promoting diversity and fostering an inclusive workplace.
• Proven ability to manage complex projects and deliver results within deadlines.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities.

You’ll have an EA Office base location; as a national role the working location is flexible / hybrid. Some travel and overnights may be required.

Additional information

• We are committed to an inclusive workforce and welcome flexible working patterns, including job share. Please include any preferred working arrangements on your application.
• Guaranteed Interview Policy to support those with a disability meeting minimum criteria.
• The Environment Agency is a Non-Departmental Public Body and uses government frameworks for external recruitment.
• For applicants from Civil Service, Environment Agency is not part of HM Civil Service and would not be Crown Servant.