Lock Keeper

About the Role

The Environment Agency is committed to fostering an inclusive workforce that truly represents the communities it serves, actively promoting diversity for the benefit of colleagues, communities, and the environment. We are currently seeking two Lock Keepers to work at Hermitage Lock, Earith Bridge, within the Anglian Waterways region, covering a combined river length of 568km. Successful candidates will undergo training and will assume key responsibilities.

Primary Responsibilities

• Assist customers in navigating through the lock(s) efficiently.
• Maintain records of lock passage and compliance for analysis.
• Support health, safety, and wellbeing management onsite, including building and environmental oversight.
• Maintain an incident response role and be available outside standard hours when needed.
• Offer assistance and information to the boating community through phone, email, and other communication platforms.
• Provide support to other tidal locks as necessary.

The Team Environment

You will join the Waterways Operation Service Team, which strives to deliver excellent customer service. Working closely with river inspectors, technical specialists, and others, you will report directly to the team leader. The role is part of the broader Operations Directorate at the Environment Agency.

Essential Requirements

• Ability to engage effectively with diverse populations and promote awareness of diversity issues.
• Strong customer service skills with excellent face-to-face communication abilities.
• Capability to physically operate locks and manage site grounds maintenance.
• Possession of a full, clean driving licence and confidence driving moderate distances when required.
• Competency in Microsoft Office applications including Word, Excel, and Outlook.
• Reliability in reaching Hermitage Lock Office (PE28 3PS) under all weather conditions.
• Capacity to work independently and self-manage post-training.

Valuable Additional Attributes

• A genuine interest in the river environment.
• Experience in boating or navigation.
• Prior customer service background.

Training and Development

Several development opportunities are available, and full training will be provided to ensure success in this role.

Additional Information

Incumbents will have an inclusive incident management goal integrated into their personal development plan. The position has a fixed office base at Hermitage Lock Office without options for hybrid or home working. While travel is minimized through the use of smart tools, some travel may still be required.

Applications are evaluated blindly based on competency question responses, with interviews conducted face-to-face within two weeks after the closing date. Candidates may opt to be included on a reserve list for six months for potential alternative opportunities.

Competency Expectations

• Manages Self: Awareness of personal strengths and weaknesses; effectively prioritizes and takes responsibility for role objectives.
• Focuses on Customers and Partners: Addresses customer needs promptly and efficiently.
• Communicates Effectively: Active listening, clear and persuasive information sharing through both verbal and written communication.

License and Employment Notes

A full UK Driving Licence is mandatory. The Environment Agency operates outside the Civil Service; therefore, appointed individuals are not Crown Servants and do not qualify for continuous service benefits. Applicants are encouraged to specify their preferred flexible working arrangements. A Guaranteed Interview Policy supports disabled applicants meeting minimum criteria.

Integrity Notice

Applicants must ensure all responses are authentic and derived from their own experiences to avoid disqualification. The agency subscribes to guidelines on the ethical use of artificial intelligence tools in applications.