Overview

We’re looking for a Technical Lead for the Land Access Database as part of the Environment Agency’s NCEA Programme. The role is to deliver an operationally vital part of the NCEA and to support how we understand and manage the water environment. The programme supports Defra’s wider NCEA programme in building an evidence base on the state and value of our natural environment and ecosystems to transform environmental decision-making in England.

As a technical specialist for the Land Access Database – a new database which stores landowner details of sites we want to monitor – you will provide oversight for all aspects of landowner access for the monitoring networks within the programme. You will maintain landowner data, ensuring compliance with Environment Agency and legal requirements. You’ll work with operations specialists to align delivery with programme goals and timelines, while maintaining strong relationships across teams.

We’re looking for someone with energy, initiative, and tenacity, with experience of working with geospatial data, interacting with internal and external customers, and managing datasets. This is an opportunity to gain hands-on experience in managing and governing a key dataset while contributing to a culture of learning and continuous improvement.

Responsibilities

• Work with internal and external stakeholders to ensure the best possible access arrangements for monitoring networks.
• Maintain landowner datasets and perform spatial analysis for NCEA networks with strong data management and GIS skills.
• Provide expert technical leadership through training, guidance, and optimization of data management processes.
• Work independently and collaboratively to troubleshoot challenges in access and programme delivery.
• Be adaptable and proactive, responding effectively to evolving priorities.

Experience/Skills Required

This is a great opportunity for someone interested in driving a data management project that will bring transformative change in environmental management and decision making. It is a good opportunity to develop networks, develop skills in project/programme work, and collaborate with a range of colleagues and partners.

What the successful candidate will do

• Work with internal and external stakeholders to ensure the best possible access arrangements for monitoring networks.
• Have strong data management and GIS skills, maintaining landowner datasets and spatial analysis for NCEA networks.
• Provide expert technical leadership through training, guidance, and optimization of data management processes.
• Work both independently and collaboratively to troubleshoot access and programme delivery challenges.
• Be adaptable and proactive in responding to evolving priorities.

Contract and Location

This post sits within the National Monitoring – Fish and Ecology team. The working location is flexible (national role) with an EA office base location. Some travel and overnight stays will be required. Length of contract: Up to 2 years.

Other information

The Environment Agency is committed to a diverse and inclusive workforce. We welcome flexible working patterns, including job share. There is a Guaranteed Interview Policy for applicants with a disability. For further information, please see the Candidate / Additional Information Pack. If you have questions, contact mike.fraser@environment-agency.gov.uk or adam.akers@environment-agency.gov.uk.