PFAS, or forever chemicals, are a serious concern for both the environment and human health worldwide. These chemicals will likely stay high on the political, public, and regulatory agenda for several decades or more. The Environment Agency has been stepping up to this challenge, developing an ambitious programme of science, investigations, and regulatory initiatives which we continue to build on.

We need someone to help lead the EA’s overall work on PFAS. Working with a cross-cutting group of experts from our strategy, science, and operational teams, this role is for a technical leader. You will focus on translating science and evidence into actions that aim to reduce the impact of PFAS on the environment and human health.

You’ll work with scientists and monitoring experts to ensure the EA has the best available evidence. You will oversee various projects, working with project managers and industrial sector leads across the EA to ensure quality outcomes.

You will represent us with external partners, including Defra and other regulatory bodies, ensuring government policy is informed by our science and evidence. You will carry out engagement activities with our international partners and ensure we are linked into global PFAS developments in science and regulation.

You’ll be responsible for contributing to the development of relevant training materials for our staff and for raising the profile of our PFAS work. You’ll also advise on media and stakeholder engagement, including responding to formal information requests.

This is a complex and challenging role, which will raise your profile and stretch your skills.

We are committed to an inclusive workforce that reflects the communities we serve. We welcome flexible working patterns for all our vacancies.

This vacancy is within the Chemicals Regulatory Development team within the EA’s Chemicals Programme in the Environment & Business Directorate. The team has diverse experience and skills across multiple sectors (e.g., waste, water, product compliance). Our strength lies in collaboration and integration of work, delivering PFAS initiatives through partnerships with EA and external entities.

Experience/Skills Required:

• An excellent understanding of chemical pollutant impacts on the environment, with broad and deep knowledge of PFAS. A background in chemistry or ecotoxicology is desirable but not essential.
• Ability to learn quickly and lead others as our understanding of PFAS develops rapidly.
• Technical leadership skills, capable of overseeing multiple work areas, delegating effectively, and inspiring teams.
• Strategic and flexible thinking, with a track record of converting plans into high-quality outcomes.
• Strong communication, coordination, and organizational skills.

Training and development opportunities are available.

Additional Information:

• This is a 12-month assignment to cover maternity leave.
• Remote work is possible; most team members adopt a hybrid approach. Some travel and overnight stays are required (typically monthly).
• For more details, read the Candidate/Additional Information Pack or contact matt.womersley@environment-agency.gov.uk.
• Applications are assessed via competency questions. Interviews will be conducted via MS Teams.
• If you wish to be on a reserve list, your details will be held for 6 months for potential alternative roles.

Salary and Contract: Up to 12 months.