Consultant - Environment Policy in Plymouth

We are looking for a Consultant and/or Researcher to join our growing environmental policy team. The role will sit in ICF’s European Policy, Research, Evaluation and Strategy unit. ICF provides independent policy research, evaluation and analytical support to the Defra group and other UK public sector clients. We provide robust evidence and strategic support to policy‑makers and regulators, using the latest research and evaluation methodologies, advanced data science and behavioural insights.

We work on issues at the top of today’s policy agenda, including:

• Restoring biodiversity and natural capital
• Rural economy and agriculture
• Sustainable food production and agri-food chain
• Addressing climate change and net zero
• Fresh water governance and policy
• Blue economy, marine planning and biodiversity
• Sustainable fisheries

Examples of our current work include:

• Evidencing the impact, and providing recommendations to improve, major funding programmes addressing biodiversity loss and climate change, from nature‑based solutions to agricultural innovation.
• Supporting the implementation of key legislation such as the UK Agriculture Act and UK Fisheries Act, by providing social and economic research, behaviour change analysis, and monitoring and evaluation for key new policies such as Environmental Land Management Schemes and Fisheries Management Plans.
• Providing research, evaluation and strategy consulting services to build understanding and recommendations on issues of environmental and institutional governance and regulation.

From day one, you will contribute to a diverse range of assignments by undertaking qualitative and quantitative research and analysis that impacts directly on public policy decisions. In parallel, we will provide you with the opportunity to develop your knowledge and skills further through excellent training and development support, structured career guidance systems, our mentoring programme, communities of practice and line management arrangements.

Key Responsibilities

• Undertake research and analysis
• Engage with stakeholders through the delivery of primary research
• Support managers through the coordination of projects and research tasks
• Help us to win new work by contributing to compelling research proposals

Who we are looking for

We are looking for someone with the following skills and experience:

• Demonstrable interest and experience in a relevant policy area
• Degree, Master’s degree or PhD in a relevant discipline
• Skills in policy analysis, social and economic research, environmental economics, and/or data science
• Strong qualitative, quantitative and analytical skills
• Exceptional ability to write and communicate in English
• Strong organisational and collaborative working skills
• Highly‑developed interpersonal skills and self‑motivation

This is an entry‑level role for researchers who are new to the profession. Prior experience in a consulting environment would be an advantage but we also welcome applicants with backgrounds in academia, government and non‑governmental employment. Interested candidates are invited to demonstrate their skills, experience and interests by submitting a one‑page cover letter and a two‑page CV.

About us

Working at ICF means applying a passion for meaningful work with intellectual rigor to help solve the leading issues of our day. We are a purpose‑driven company with a strong culture and underlying values that prize collaboration, diversity, mutual respect, innovation, open communication, and opportunity for growth. Together, our employees are empowered to share their expertise and collaborate with others to achieve personal and professional goals.

The benefits of joining ICF

Our people at ICF are our most important asset, so we invest in them from the moment they arrive. When you join our team, you’ll have access to a vast array of benefits to help you live your life well:

• Hybrid working policy, providing flexibility to collaborate in the office and from home.
• Employee wellbeing hub with personalised support across wellbeing issues: mind, body, finances, community, career programmes and HR support.
• Competitive recognition program 'You Matter' awarding points that can be spent on high‑quality items and vouchers, tax‑free to the employee.
• Single private medical insurance cover with no restrictions on existing conditions.
• Dental insurance and an online GP service.
• 25 days annual leave, plus UK bank holidays (annual leave increases with years of service).
• Pension scheme with 5% of salary employer contribution.
• Life assurance paying 4x annual salary and Group Income Protection 66% of salary for up to 5 years if off work on long‑term sickness.
• Enhanced parental leave policies, maternity, paternity, adoption, and shared parental pay.

Candidate AI Usage Policy

At ICF, we are committed to ensuring a fair and equitable interview process for all candidates based on their skills and knowledge. As part of this commitment, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools to generate or assist with responses during interviews (whether in‑person or virtual) is not permitted. This policy is in place to maintain the integrity and authenticity of the interview process. However, we understand that some candidates may require accommodations that involve the use of AI. If such an accommodation is needed, candidates are instructed to contact us in advance at candidateaccommodation@icf.com. We are dedicated to providing the necessary support to ensure that all candidates have an equal opportunity to succeed.