Overview

The Environment Agency operates at the place where environmental change has its greatest impact on people’s lives. We work closely with a wide range of partners to make sure there is enough water for people and wildlife, reduce the risk of flooding, protect and improve air, land and water quality and apply environmental standards within which industry can operate.

The breadth and diversity of the Environment Agency’s remit provides ever-evolving challenges for our legal teams. As a Senior Lawyer in the Commercial Law Team, you will:

Responsibilities

• Give accurate, risk-based legal advice at the forefront of a broad spectrum of commercial matters, from public procurement to dispute resolution, and from intellectual property to Net Zero and Biodiversity Net Gain
• Manage your own caseload, giving clear risk-based advice and finding solutions to complex and sensitive matters
• Advise all levels of the organisation across the spectrum of commercial law, including public procurement, civil litigation and dispute resolution, intellectual property, externally funded projects, and collaborations with other public bodies, charities, and research bodies
• Work alongside other legal teams and specialisms within the Environment Agency and with Government Legal Services

The Environment Agency is committed to inclusivity and equal opportunities, offering flexible work arrangements. We welcome a diverse environment where every voice is heard and valued.

Team and working arrangements

We are six lawyers based across Bristol, Birmingham, and Peterborough, with a mix of private practice and local authority backgrounds. We operate a hybrid working model where possible; two team members work part-time.

Experience / Skills Required

• An excellent track record of handling technical issues and negotiating and advising on commercial contracts in a public sector context
• First-class communication, influencing and analytical skills with up-to-date knowledge of commercial law; experience in civil litigation and general public law is useful, and construction law or dispute resolution experience is helpful
• A quick learning style with the ability to rapidly grasp new legal issues and apply them in a commercial or other legal context
• Proficiency in producing detailed legal briefings for senior levels, including directors, boards, and government officials, and composing responses to challenging external inquiries
• Ability to provide guidance to managers, officers, and fellow lawyers on the strategic direction and management of casework
• Strong influencing and persuasive abilities, capable of engaging and convincing individuals at all levels

Role requirements

You must be an English law-qualified solicitor, barrister or legal executive (with a current practising certificate) or have the right to practice English law.

Additional information includes travel requirements and interview timelines (interviews in October 2025). You may download the candidate pack or contact the named HR representative for more information.

Benefits and additional information

Benefits include a Market Forces Factor payment of £5,250, a generous career average pension scheme, and 27 days holiday + 8 bank holidays (pro rata for part-time). Some national travel is required.