Geomorphology Officer - 23016

In this job you’ll help to tackle the climate emergency and the biodiversity crisis by applying geomorphology and nature-based solutions to Environment Agency’s projects, as well as giving advice to others.

As part of a team, you will:
- Help to identify and promote opportunities within our flood risk management projects that use nature-based solutions to create more climate-resilient places and improve the environment;
- Support in providing valuable geomorphology recommendations and advice into our permitting and planning processes;
- Communicate clearly to build strong relationships with internal teams and external partners.

The North East is a diverse part of the country with a mix of rural and urban areas, upland and lowland rivers, species and habitats. This makes it a fascinating place to be a practicing Geomorphologist.

We think the role is ideal for a recent graduate and will provide a great development opportunity for those with limited professional experience.

The North East Area Biodiversity and Geomorphology team is highly experienced, inclusive and supportive. We also work very closely with the local Fisheries team to bring about multiple benefits for the environment and its rivers. We have offices in Newcastle and Darlington.

The wider geomorphology community are dispersed across the country. It is a friendly close-knit community who will support you in your role and technical development.

You will need:
- Enthusiasm. As a geomorphology advocate, you’ll be passionate about your topic and able to promote and champion it.
- Sound technical knowledge (but you don’t have to be an expert): you'll know what geomorphological processes are and why they matter. You will understand climate change and how this may change the form and function of our rivers. You'll have a relevant degree (e.g. geography), or other equivalent experience.
- To be a team player: you’ll work with a wide range of teams; sharing information and supporting others to make good decisions.
- A full UK driving licence: this role is office based but involves site visits.

You may also have some of the following: technical geomorphology skills in fieldwork; knowledge of current environmental challenges and topics such as Natural Flood Management; knowledge of managing coastal or fluvial flood risk; knowledge of river, floodplain, or coastal restoration.

We’d love to hear from you – please get in touch by emailing alice.fitch@environment-agency.gov.uk or alistair.laverty@environment-agency.gov.uk .

We are fully committed to having an inclusive workforce to reflect the communities we serve. We welcome flexible working for all our vacancies, please include any information regarding your preferred working arrangements on your application.

All Environment Agency staff receive training to support our response to major incidents.

Interviews are expected to take place in mid-July

Communication is important in this role – you’ll be in regular contact with flood and coastal risk management teams, so you need to be able to communicate about geomorphology effectively.

Please tell us, with an example(s), how you communicate well. If you can, please use an example that includes geomorphology.

Look at the definition and list below, but don’t worry if your example doesn’t tick every bullet point. The important thing is to show how you communicate effectively.

Try to create a good structure so that your answer is clear – we recommend reading ‘How to apply - Environment Agency (environmentagencycareers.co.uk) before you write anything!

The definition is: you listen and question to understand and engage. Conveys information and ideas clearly, accurately and persuasively through speech and writing.
• Is an active listener, has time for people; seeks their contribution.
• Uses full range of communication methods to ensure effective understanding.
• Considers needs of and impact on audience, anticipates reactions and uses appropriate communication method and style.
• Prepares written reports and data in clear, readable and accurate manner, using appropriate grammar, syntax and style.
• Ensures communication is two-way; responds and acts on feedback
• When presenting is easily understood and inspires attention from an audience.
• Is clear and to the point when speaking.
• Anticipates the main issues and prepares responses.

An important part of this role is supporting others, so having a good attitude and achieving results is vital.

Please tell us, with an example(s), how you have achieved results. If you can, please use an example that includes geomorphology.

Look at the definition and list below, but don’t worry if your example doesn’t tick every bullet point. The important thing is to show how you achieve results.

Try to create a good structure so that your answer is clear – we recommend reading ‘How to apply - Environment Agency (environmentagencycareers.co.uk) before you write anything!

The definition is: Sets and delivers high work standards, demonstrates the drive to meet targets. Prioritises and organises tasks and resources to ensure timely achievement of results.
• Maximises work output by setting goals and priorities tracking and measuring outcomes and taking swift remedial action when necessary. ·
• Can be relied upon to regularly exceed goals agreed
• Is tenacious and perseveres when others might give up and by doing so achieves the desired results
• Anticipates forth-coming issues and adjusts actions as necessary.
• Willing to put in extra effort to meet urgent deadlines when required; shows dedication and commitment; “goes the extra mile”
• Is resilient and performs well under pressure; responds positively to setbacks and develops alternative action

In this role, you will work closely with the Geomorphology Technical Specialist, Biodiversity officers and other internal teams so it’s important that you are able to build and sustain professional relationships.

Please tell us, with an example(s), how you have built and sustained constructive relationships. If you can, please use an example that includes geomorphology.

Look at the definition and list below, but don’t worry if your example doesn’t tick every bullet point. The important thing is to show how you build and sustain relationships.

Try to create a good structure so that your answer is clear – we recommend reading ‘How to apply - Environment Agency (environmentagencycareers.co.uk) before you write anything!

The definition is: Develops and maintains effective working relationships.
• Respects different views, cultures, values, opinions and the contributions that all colleagues make
• Makes an active effort to fit in and respect company norms (the “way we do things” in the agency)
• Balances team and personal interests for a win-win outcome
• Displays tact and diplomacy and builds rapport quickly, establishing needs and adapting own approach.
• Communicates honestly, openly and effectively with colleagues and external partners alike
• Openly identifies and challenges inappropriate behaviour or performance constructively and speaks out even when the message is unpopular.
• Handles people situations effectively; defuses anger, tension, focuses on issues and successfully addresses problems.