Make a Difference in the World

We are seeking talented and enthusiastic candidates to be part of a team making a real difference to create a better place for people and wildlife and supporting sustainable development. You’ll be providing legal advice across a wide range of issues relating to the work of the Environment Agency from the exercise of our statutory powers, through the drafting of agreements to advising on planning issues.

If you have some experience in any of the following - general planning law, infrastructure planning law, environmental law, highways, contracts, civil litigation, judicial review or property / land law, this is your chance to help not just people, but the wider environment. Work for what you wish for.

About us

The Environment Agency operates at the forefront of 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, to reduce the risk of flooding, to protect and improve air, land and water quality and apply environmental standards within which industry can operate.

This crucial role is based in our Flood & Coastal Risk Management (FCRM) and Planning team. No two days will be the same as you take on a diverse caseload, providing high quality legal advice in relation to major scheme developments, our powers of entry, planning, highways, navigations and litigation.

Working on ever-evolving challenges, this is your opportunity to make your mark in a national organisation that promises a good work-life balance, generous defined-benefits pension scheme and great professional development.

The team

Work with great colleagues who are as passionate as you about the environment and people. A well established, experienced and supportive network of colleagues will help you settle into your new role.

What you’ll bring

You'll be a recently qualified lawyer (solicitor, barrister or legal executive) with 0-3 years PQE, or someone exploring a new area of law. You will work closely with and be supervised by experienced colleagues.

In addition you:

• May have experience of working on legal issues, preferably in public and environmental law
• Be confident, credible, and able to explain legal matters clearly
• Possess analytical skills and knowledge of public law principles
• Be naturally curious and someone who thrives in a collaborative, team-oriented environment
• Be able to effectively communicate legal concepts and influence stakeholders
• Be proactive, detail-oriented, and committed to making a tangible impact
• See this as an exciting opportunity to work on meaningful issues and develop as a trusted legal advisor

The work is diverse, offering opportunities to develop your skills and grow within the role according to your expertise.

Find out more

We offer the opportunity to combine home working with working at your contractual office base, subject to meeting business need through working alongside colleagues or attending other locations as needed. We understand there’s more to life than work. This role offers all the legal challenges of private practice, but with a flexible approach and a tangible sense of purpose.

We are fully committed to having an inclusive workforce to reflect the communities we serve. We welcome flexible working patterns for all our vacancies, including job share, so please include clearly any information regarding your preferred working arrangements on your application. For more information, please contact Nick Hayden (nick.hayden@environment-agency.gov.uk) or Sarah Ward (sarah.ward@environment-agency.gov.uk).

Closing date: 1 September 2025

For further information or to apply, please click on the 'Enquire/Apply' button below.