Flood & Coastal Risk Management

Flood & Coastal Risk Management

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FLOOD & COASTAL RISK MANAGEMENT

Shape new possibilities
Have influence that lasts

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We protect people, natural spaces, wildlife and our shared future. We safeguard what matters most from the devastating impact of floods.

We do this by:

  • Building and maintaining river and sea defences. 
  • Helping people understand their flood risk and what they can do to protect themselves and their property.
  • Advising local councils on whether new building proposals will increase the risk of flooding and warning them when flooding is expected from rivers or the sea.  
  • Working with emergency services during a flood.  
  • Using science and research to identify areas at risk from flooding and plan the best ways of reducing future flooding.

You can be part of our ambitious and innovative £5.2 billion programme to reduce flood risk using both built and natural flood defences.

“We are proud to be part of a people-led culture that supports us to grow. Watch our film to find out more about our team. It shows the hands-on work we do every day maintaining waterways, operating specialist equipment, and responding to incidents to keep people and the environment safe” – Elisa and Amelia

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Shape the Future with Us

At the Environment Agency you can influence change that protects people, places and the planet in a range of roles from planning and delivering flood risk solutions to building community resilience.

Whether you’re managing assets, leading projects, innovating with data, or working hands-on in the field, you’ll be part of a team that combines technical expertise with purpose. Together, we’re tackling the climate emergency and creating safer, stronger communities across England.

Explore the roles below and
discover how your skills can
help us make a difference.

  • Area Programme

    Across England our 14 area teams plan and prioritise work. They make sure we deliver value for money and efficiency, supporting frontline teams to manage flood and coastal risks while balancing climate impacts with community wellbeing and economic growth.

  • Asset Performance

    We look after 78,000 flood and coastal assets – from banks and walls to pumping stations. Our teams ensure they’re safe, effective and efficient, reducing flood risk and delivering projects that protect people and property.

  • Field Operations

    Field teams keep communities safe by maintaining and operating flood risk assets and responding to incidents. Skilled in using specialist equipment, they work day and night to protect people and the environment.

  • Flood Resilience

    We run and improve the Flood Warning Service, gather intelligence after floods, and help communities become more resilient. Working with partners, we train flood wardens and support engagement to reduce risk.

  • MEICA

    Our mechanical and electrical engineers manage water resources, flood risk and navigation assets. They provide expert technical guidance to keep everything safe, legal and operational nationwide.

  • Partnership & Strategic Overview

    PSO teams work with flood authorities and communities to plan for the future. They analyse data, develop strategies like Flood Risk Management Plans, and support projects that deliver effective local solutions.

  • Projects & Programme Management

    Our project managers drive innovation, modernise systems and deliver capital projects. They turn ideas into reality, working with technical teams and partners to manage environmental risks.

  • Evidence & Risk

    This national team leads on flood modelling, forecasting and data improvements. They set standards, influence research and shape how we respond to the climate emergency.

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  • Ashley

    Flood Risk Management Officer

    “When asked about my first impression of the Environment Agency, I can honestly say I loved it from day one. Adapting to a flexible setup was new for me, but the welcoming culture and clear expectations made it easy to fit in quickly.”

    Ashley