Environment and Science Graduate Training Scheme

Position: Environment and Science Graduate Training Scheme 2026 - 32748

Environment and Science Graduate Training Scheme 2026

Kickstart your career with purpose and shape the future with the Environment Agency.

Are you driven by curiosity, motivated by challenge, and passionate about protecting our environment? This is your chance to turn ambition into action. The Agency offers more than jobs – we offer careers that make a difference.

Through this permanent role, you will join a 4‑year Graduate Training Scheme to develop the skills, experience and confidence to become one of our future technical leaders, while making a real impact on the communities we serve.

We want individuals who can demonstrate potential for career growth by balancing technical and leadership development. Join us to build a career that thrives on curiosity, dedication and a drive for change.

What you will do

• Work alongside subject experts in your base team.
• Create a personalised development plan that aligns with your professional journey and the needs of the business.
• Collect evidence of your development and skills to progress through professional memberships towards chartership.
• Attend your base office a minimum of 2 days per week, visit sites and meetings at other offices as required.
• Take on an incident role (after your first year) and engage in activity responding to environmental and/or flood incidents.

Key responsibilities

• Perform duties that enhance your technical skills.
• Take and reflect on opportunities to develop personal and leadership skills.
• Actively participate in the Graduate Trainee community.
• Collaborate with other teams to gain a broader understanding of the Agency’s remit of protecting healthy ecosystems.

Experience and skills required

• Willingness to learn – open to developing skills in new areas.
• Environmental commitment – genuine interest in protecting and improving healthy ecosystems.
• Passion for impact – motivated to effect change for a better environment.
• Networking ability – skilled at building and maintaining professional connections to support growth and career development.
• Strong communication – able to collaborate effectively with others.
• Flexibility and adaptability – ready to adjust your approach when circumstances change.
• Organisational skills – capable of planning and managing your time proactively.
• Prioritisation – able to balance multiple tasks and responsibilities at once.

Eligibility criteria

To be eligible for the Graduate Training Scheme you must meet ALL of the following criteria:

Criteria 1:
You are a UK, Commonwealth or EEA national with the right to work in the UK.
Criteria 2:
Must hold a minimum honours degree in an environment or science‑related subject (or have graduated with an environment or science‑based degree, masters or PhD from June 2021 to September 2026 and/or have current working knowledge of the subject.
Criteria 3:
Some roles require a driving licence – please see individual role profiles to confirm.

Benefits and support

• Pension
  :
  Around 19% contribution to a career‑average scheme invested in ethical, renewable energy businesses.
• Leave
  : 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays.
• Flexibility
  :
  Full‑time role with hybrid options, flexible hours and time back for overtime.
• Support
  :
  Access buddies, mentors, peer groups and staff networks from day one.

Application information

After you have submitted your application, you will receive a link to an online assessment platform called Arctic Shores. The next steps will be explained and you can take the test at a convenient time. If you need reasonable adjustments, please contact eacareerent

Applications close on 15 February
; interviews in April; offers in May.

Commitment to diversity and inclusion

We are committed to building a diverse workforce that reflects the communities we serve. Flexible working patterns and inclusive recruitment practices are encouraged. If you have a disability, we guarantee an interview where your application meets the minimum criteria. We also welcome applicants who may have limited industry experience.

Artificial intelligence guidance

Artificial intelligence can support your application, but all examples and statements must be truthful, factually accurate and come from your own experience. Plagiarism or misrepresentation may result in withdrawal of your application or disciplinary action. The Agency follows the guidance on AI use provided by the Civil Service Careers website.

Seniority level

• Internship

Employment type

• Full‑time

Job function

• Other

#J-18808-Ljbffr