Freshwater Lead Adviser

Play a vital role in protecting and enhancing the UK’s freshwater habitats.

At Natural England, we advise the UK Government on the natural environment. We’re here to make sure people and nature can thrive. From advising farmers on sustainable land management, to gathering and analysing environmental data, and promoting health and wellbeing through the great outdoors, we love what we do. Join us and you’ll be part of an inclusive, motivated, and ambitious team, committed to achieving results for our environment, for everyone.

Working collaboratively with a wide variety of stakeholders, you will provide technical input on a range of freshwater-related issues. On a day-to-day basis you will provide basic hydrogeological advice on abstraction licences, and you will develop policies, strategies and plans relating to water quality and water level issues. You will also coordinate the evaluation of water elements with your advice impacting on designated rivers and transitional and coastal waters.

This is an exciting opportunity to get involved in a range of projects such as the development of Diffuse Water Pollution Plans and River Basin Management Plans. You will help us increase our income by providing discretionary advice to water companies on the development of their drought, water resource management and business plans, and you will identify how proposals can contribute to environmental opportunities.

To make the most of this highly varied role, you will have a good understanding of how ecosystems function, and the factors that can affect their resilience. With a good knowledge of planning, environmental and water legislation, you will have an exceptional knowledge of hydrological linkages, and you will be well-versed in the management techniques that can be used to maintain, enhance, and restore the condition of freshwater habitats and systems. As a team-player who can meet deadlines and collaborate with stakeholders, you will be able to make and explain objective decisions.

We welcome and encourage applications from all communities and, wherever possible, we accommodate requests for both full and part-time hours and other flexible working patterns. Everyone at Natural England is supported to develop their skills and capabilities. You can also look forward to great benefits including a Civil Service pension.

If you’re inspired to protect and enhance England’s wildlife, and want to work for a leading science-led organisation, apply here.