
Internships

Duration
Approx. 6 – 15 weeks
Salary
Approx. £25,301 (pro rata)
Location
UK wide
What is an internship at the Environment Agency?
We offer paid internship opportunities for undergraduates and recent graduates. These placements typically last between 6 and 15 weeks and cover a range of disciplines.
You will get an insight into the breadth of our work across the Environment Agency and our core values for people and the environment.
Further information about each of our opportunities can be found below.
Summer Internship Programme (SIP)
The SIP runs for approximately 12 weeks over the summer and is open to final-year undergraduates and recent graduates. It offers the chance to gain valuable skills and experience in areas of interest.
The programme offers interns an extensive support network, specific learning and development sessions to encourage growth and retention.

Intern air quality and amenity:
“My internship with the Environment Agency was transformative, offering invaluable insights and networking opportunities that have significantly contributed to my career. I enthusiastically encourage prospective interns to seize this chance for personal and professional growth. Embrace the learning journey with peers and overcome impostor syndrome by recognising its commonality; don’t let self-doubt deter you from making a meaningful impact.”
Eligibility criteria
Undergraduates in their final year of study and recent (within the last year) graduates who have a right to work in the UK.
Eligibility criteria is reviewed before upcoming recruitment campaigns, and, therefore, may be subject to change.
What to Expect from the Application Process
While the exact process may vary slightly, it typically includes:
- Online Application – A tailored form that gives you the chance to highlight your skills, motivations, and suitability for the scheme.
- Behaviour-Based Assessment (BBA) – Delivered by Arctic Shores, this assessment looks at key behaviours that align with our values.
- Shortlisting – Applications are reviewed to ensure they meet the educational requirements and are assessed based on the strength and relevance of your responses.
- Interview – If shortlisted, you’ll be invited to a single interview, even if you’ve applied for more than one role.
About the Behaviour-Based Assessment (BBA)
Unlike traditional assessments, the BBA focuses on how you approach tasks and challenges, rather than your past experience. It looks at things like:
- How you plan and manage your workload
- How you complete tasks and track progress
- How you adapt and build relationships with others
These behaviours reflect the qualities we value most at the Environment Agency. A minimum score is required to progress to the interview stage.
To help you prepare, we recommend checking out these resources from Arctic Shores:
What to expect from the assessment
Neurodiversity and assessments
When do applications open?
Applications are now closed for 2025 recruitment.
2026 programme application will open around December 2025/January 2026. Further information will be coming soon.
Further information and questions
Recruitment to the SIP is managed by our Resourcing Hub. For further information or questions in relation to the scheme, please contact [email protected]