Number of jobs available: 1
Region: South West
City/Town: Blandford Forum , Bridgwater , Exeter
Grade: Staff Grade 4
Post Type: Fixed Term
Role Type: Operational Delivery, Science
Working Pattern: Full Time, Part Time, Part Time/Job Share, Compressed Hours
Salary Minimum: ÂŁ34,320
Closing Date: 03/04/2026, 23:55 hours
Job description attachment 1
TSS04 Technical & Scientific Services, Grade 4
Candidate pack
Candidate Pack – 33625.docx – 6580KB
Converted File Candidate Pack – 33625.docx.pdf – 2180KB
Security checks level: Basic Check
Job description
Are you passionate about hydrology and ready to make a real impact in managing water resources in a changing climate? We are looking for an enthusiastic and motivated individual to join the Wessex Groundwater, Hydrology and Contaminated Land Team as a Technical Officer. This is an excellent opportunity for someone with a foundation in hydrology or environmental science who is ready to deepen their technical skills while making a real impact on environmental protection. 
Wessex is a diverse and dynamic area, offering an exciting environment to develop your expertise. You will work alongside experienced colleagues and contribute to a wide range of important and rewarding workstreams, including:
Contributing to the production of the Water Situation Report
Quality assurance of river flow data
Technical assessments into the impact of water abstractions on river flows
Contributing Catchment Abstraction Management Strategies
Advising internal and external customers, translating information into clear, practical guidance 
We are seeking someone who brings curiosity, initiative, and a willingness to learn. You’ll apply your existing knowledge and experience from day one, while benefiting from strong support and opportunities to develop further specialist skills across hydrology. This role offers variety and the chance to contribute to decisions that protect communities and the environment. The role is fixed term until July 2027.
The team
You’ll join our supportive and knowledgeable Groundwater, Hydrology and Contaminated Land Team. We’re a friendly, collaborative group passionate about protecting water resources and quality. We work closely with internal teams and external partners providing expert hydrological analysis, modelling and forecasting to support both people and the environment.
A geographically dispersed team with colleagues based in Blandford, Bridgwater and Exeter. We stay closely connected, and some travel across the Wessex area is required.
Experience/skills required
We’re looking for a motivated and organised individual who can manage technical information and communicate clearly while working in a fast paced operational environment. You’ll have an understanding of hydrology concepts, alongside the drive to learn and develop your knowledge and technical skills.
Essential Criteria 
Ability to analyse, manage and interpret environmental data to produce clear, evidence-based conclusions. 
Strong IT skills, particularly Excel and the ability to learn new systems quickly. 
Effective time management skills, including the ability to balance and prioritise competing demands. 
Excellent communication skills, able to translate technical information into clear, accessible messages for a range of audiences. 
Full UK driving licence, with willingness to travel between offices and undertake site visits as required. 
You’ll have a range of development opportunities and appropriate training will be provided.
Contact and additional information
You’ll have an inclusive incident management objective in your development plan. We’ll help you find a role to suit your needs. Appropriate training will be given. 
You’ll have an EA base location at Blandford, Bridgwater or Exeter with hybrid working options available.  
We use smart tools to stay connected and reduce travel, some travel and overnights may be required. 
Please read the Candidate / Additional Information Pack for information. Any queries, contact Dawn.fullthorpe@environment-agency.gov.uk 
Applications are “blind” assessed using your answers to the competency questions.
Interviews are likely to be held in person week commencing 27th April 2026.
If you consent to being held on a reserve list, we’ll hold your details for 6 months and may offer you an alternative post.
Length of contract: Up to 02/07/2027
Competence 1: Achieves Results
Description
More information on how to answer competency questions can be found in the candidate pack.
If a large number of applications are received, an initial sift using this lead capability may be conducted. Successful candidates will then proceed to a full sift or directly to assessment/interview.
Feedback is generally not available at sift stage.
Description:
Sets and delivers high work standards, demonstrates the drive to meet targets. Prioritises and organises tasks and resources to ensure timely achievement of results. 
Question:
Describe a time you supported or delivered a piece of environmental or hydrological related work. What were you aiming to achieve, what standards, guidance or quality checks did you need to follow, how did you prioritise your tasks and resources, and what was the outcome of your contribution?
Competence 2: Data and Information Management
Description
More information on how to answer competency questions can be found in the candidate pack.
Description:
Collects, analyses, interprets, records, manages, develops and shares data,
material or information appropriately for a variety of purposes.
Question:
Describe a time you collected or worked with environmental or hydrological data. What was the purpose of the data, how did you make sure it was accurate and recorded properly, and how did you use or share the information to support the work you were doing?
Competence 3: Uses Initiative
Description
More information on how to answer competency questions can be found in the candidate pack.
Description:
Takes action before and/or beyond what is required, owning the outcome.
Question:
Tell us about a time you spotted something that needed doing and took action without being asked. What did you do, why did you take the initiative, and what was the result?
Role specific license requirements: Full UK Driving Licence
If you are applying from the Civil Service please note that the Environment Agency is not a part of HM Civil Service and you would not be a Crown Servant in the event of being appointed. Therefore, you will not be eligible for continuous service. For applicants who currently work in local government or other bodies listed in the Redundancy Payments (Continuity of Employment in Local Government etc) (Modification) Order 1999, you may be eligible for continuous service for the purpose of calculating any future redundancy payment. If you are unsure of your status then you should contact your own HR Team.
We are fully committed to having a diverse and 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.
We also have a Guaranteed Interview Policy to support those with a disability who are seeking employment. We have committed to guaranteeing an interview to anyone with a disability whose application meets the minimum criteria for the post.
The Environment Agency, as a Non-Departmental Public Body, is committed to providing value for money and utilises Central Government frameworks and contracts for all external recruitment needs. For this reason, we are unable to engage with the market directly through post, email or phone calls . Should you wish to become a support supplier on one of these frameworks or contracts please visit https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/become-a-crown-commercial-service-supplier/becoming-a-supplier-through-the-crown-commercial-service-what-you-need-to-know for more information.
Artificial intelligence can be a useful tool to support your application, however, all examples and statements provided must be truthful, factually accurate and taken directly from your own experience. Where plagiarism has been identified (presenting the ideas and experiences of others, or generated by artificial intelligence, as your own) applications may be withdrawn and internal candidates may be subject to disciplinary action. Although the Environment Agency is a non-departmental public body sponsored by Defra, we subscribe to and align with the candidate guidance on the use of artificial intelligence found on the Civil Service Careers website. Please review for more information on appropriate and inappropriate use.
