-Can I apply by sending you a CV and covering letter?
To apply, you must complete the online application form on this site. If, however, you are applying through the Guaranteed Interview Policy scheme - which ensures that disabled candidates are offered an interview if they meet the minimum criteria for the programme then we will accept CVs and reasonable alternative methods of applying.
-When will I hear from you after I've completed my application form?
You will automatically receive an acknowledgement email stating we have received your application. We will then contact you after the application deadline to inform you of the outcome of your application. Please note that the majority of correspondence will be by email so please check your emails regularly.
-What's the closing date?
The closing date is 31st January 2010
-When can I start the programme?
You can start as soon as you've gained a 2.2 MEng degree (or equivalent). If you want to take some time off in the summer before you join us, we're more than happy for you to start in September 2010.
-Is there a graduate induction?
Yes. All graduates have a one-day National Graduate Induction to the programme, which will be held in September 2010. Representatives from Training and Development and the Graduate Programme team, as well as current and past graduates, guest speakers and mentors will all give presentations. You won't have to take too many detailed notes though, as we'll provide written correspondence for everything discussed on the day.
-How many graduates are you looking for?
We are looking for around 6 graduates this year. These graduates will be based in the Anglian, Wales, Midlands and Thames regions. To learn more about our regions, please visit our section on Vacancies.
-Is there a mentoring system?
Yes. You'll have your own mentors, who you'll meet at the very start of the programme. One will be a supervising Engineer and the other a delegated Engineer. They will guide, advise and manage you, with the aim of helping you to find your feet quickly and achieve CEng status after you've completed your final programme review and chartered professional review.
-Do you pay travel expenses for the assessment centre?
Yes. However, we would like you to use public transport where possible. We will only reimburse you for standard/economy class tickets on any rail, bus, air or sea journeys too. And if you are travelling by car, we'll pay you a rate of 12.8 pence per mile. If you require overnight accommodation, please use our hotel agent to make the booking (further details will be provided). With all expenses you will need to provide the receipts, we'll give you forms to fill in at the assessment centre. You can hand them in there and then, but if you do take them away, we would like you to return them within two weeks of your assessment. Please note that we only pay expenses once in the UK.
How long is the programme?
This is solely down to how much relevant experience you have when you join us - which will be discussed in the recruitment process and in your Initial Professional Development review (IPD). So, it could range between three and four years.
-Who should I contact if I have a query?
All queries please contact gradengineers@environment-agency.gov.uk or 0845 601 2233 and ask for the Graduate Recruitment Team.
-What is involved in the selection process?
For both the Flood Risk Engineering Graduate Programme and Sponsorship Opportunities applicants begin by completing an online application form. We will check that you meet the minimum requirements and then screen your application in relation to the 'further information' questions. Those that are successfully screened will attend a regional assessment centre, which will involve a selection of exercises where you will be able to demonstrate your ability to succeed in the programme. All exercises will be capability based. For more information please see the Recruitment Process section
-I still have my final year to complete - is it too early to apply?
Not necessarily, we run a Sponsorship Programme for students currently studying towards an accredited BEng and who will be progressing to MEng (or equivalent postgraduate accredited qualification) in their final year. You can apply for sponsorship now and get a valuable 10 week summer work experience opportunity as well as some financial support in your final year.
Please refer to the sponsorship programme section on the site for more information.

