Job details

Salary: Grade 12 £29,542 - Grade 11 £33,673 per annum

Employer: Somerset Council

Location: Taunton, Somerset,

Contract type: Fixed term

Working pattern: Full time

Closing date: 15 October 2026 11:59 pm

About the job

Key information

  • Salary: Grade 12 – £29,542 per annum, increasing in set increments as per the Graduate Scheme, to a final salary of Grade 11 – £33,673 per annum
  • Hours: Full-time, 37 hours per week
  • Contract: This is a fixed-term opportunity for a period of two years as part of Somerset Council’s Graduate Scheme

Looking for a graduate opportunity where you can make a real difference from day one?

This is an exciting opportunity to join Somerset Council’s Flood Resilience Programme and play a hands-on role in supporting communities across the county. Working as part of a high-profile programme, you’ll help deliver engagement and outreach initiatives that empower residents, businesses and local organisations to better prepare for, respond to and recover from flood risk.

You’ll work alongside experienced professionals, developing practical skills in community engagement, stakeholder management, research and project delivery. From day one, you’ll contribute to meaningful projects that support Somerset’s communities and environment, while gaining valuable experience and support to build a successful career.

What will I be doing?

As a Flood, Resilience and Adaptation Outreach Graduate, you’ll support the delivery of community-based projects that help people and places across Somerset build resilience to flooding. Working with residents, partners and stakeholders, you’ll undertake research, coordinate activities and contribute to the successful delivery of the Rural Flood Resilience Fund programme while developing your skills and experience.

How You’ll Make a Difference

  • Support the delivery of community engagement and outreach activities across Somerset.
  • Help communities understand flood risks and promote resilience and adaptation initiatives.
  • Carry out research, gather information and analyse findings to support project delivery and service improvements.
  • Assist with the planning, coordination and administration of projects, ensuring activities are delivered effectively.
  • Build positive working relationships with residents, partner organisations and internal teams.
  • Contribute ideas and improvements that help strengthen community resilience and programme outcomes.

What kind of experience or qualifications do I need?

  • A relevant degree or equivalent qualification, with a classification of at least 2:2 (obtained within the last 3 years).
  • Experience of working independently and managing your own workload to meet deadlines.
  • Strong communication and relationship-building skills, with the ability to engage effectively with a wide range of people.
  • Experience of undertaking research, gathering information and analysing findings.
  • Good technical and IT skills, with confidence using digital systems and tools.
  • A commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion, alongside an understanding of health, safety and wellbeing.

What is in it for me?

At Somerset Council, we’re a progressive organisation committed to improving lives and shaping better services for our communities. Based in one of England’s most beautiful counties, it’s a great place to build your career and enjoy an excellent quality of life.

  • 28 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays, with the option to purchase additional leave.
  • Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS), one of the UK’s most enhanced and secure pension schemes.
  • Flexible and hybrid working arrangements to support work-life balance, where service needs allow.
  • Health and wellbeing support, including access to confidential employee assistance services.
  • Paid volunteering opportunities, helping you make a difference both inside and outside of work.

Find out more about working at Somerset Council

Supporting documents and information

  • We offer flexible and hybrid working arrangements to support a healthy work-life balance.
  • This is a two-year fixed-term contract.
  • Professional Development Plan will be provided across the two years; including cohort training sessions around skill development and reflective practice.
  • Unfortunately, we are unable to offer visa sponsorship for this role.

We believe diversity makes us stronger and are committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued and respected. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and experiences, whose unique perspectives help us better serve the people of Somerset.

For an informal chat about the role, you can contact James Divall (Head of Service: Climate and Natural Environment) on james.divall@somerset.gov.uk

Apply on the Somerset Council website

Apply now