People from a wide range of backgrounds, with various levels of experience have joined us across all areas of our Flood Risk Management work. In their words, this is what they do and why they chose the Environment Agency to further their career.

Increasing sea storms. Heavier rainfall. Rising sea levels.

Lucy Smithurst

‘I joined the Environment Agency six months ago when I became a member of the Flood Risk Management team based near Lichfield. Initially, my contract was temporary to cover maternity leave but I was fortunate enough to be made a permanent member of staff recently! Prior to joining the Environment Agency I had recently completed a Geography Degree at the University of Sheffield. I applied for my current position using the Fluidfacts website after I had seen an advertisement in my local paper regarding opportunities in Flood Risk Management.

In my current role I have been able to work as part of the Flood Incident Management team to achieve various goals, this has included helping to introduce a new flood warning service and improving public awareness of flooding. Personal development is also encouraged and I have had the opportunity to attend a variety of induction programmes and training days. My team leader, Sam Probert led me through a three-month induction programme when I started to help me settle in to my new role. I was also assigned a mentor, Alisha Dexter to help guide me through day-to-day activities and help me if I had any problems, although all my colleagues are all very friendly and approachable!

Working in the Flood Incident Management team is both challenging and rewarding, one day you may be updating flooding data the next helping to deal with a flood incident. The support and training you receive from the whole of the Flood Risk Management team is fantastic and there is such a diverse group of people that someone will undoubtedly be able to help you! I have enjoyed my time within the Environment Agency being part of a team and helping to provide an effective service to the communities we serve. Being at the forefront of environmental issues and changing the way people view and use the environment is a vital role that I am pleased to be a part of.’