Restoring nature, supporting growth, enhancing security
Where purpose comes to life
Make a difference where it matters. At Defra, your work helps strengthen our economy by protecting the water, food, land and nature it depends on.
You could support national security and resilience, from biosecurity and flood preparedness to food security and reduced trade barriers.
At Defra, we work at the heart of world-leading science, using evidence and innovation to tackle real-world challenges for people, nature and future generations to come.
Check out our latest jobs
We are always looking for talented people to join us at Defra. Find out more about our current vacancies and apply today.
Everyone who works with us or in one of our agencies and public bodies has a part to play in achieving our vision of ‘creating a great place for people to live’. The work we do impacts the lives of everyone living in the UK – from the food they eat and the air they breathe, to the water they drink.
Our objectives are
To pass on to the next generation a natural environment protected and enhanced for the future.
To lead the world in food, farming and fisheries with a sustainable model of food production.
To be an outstanding organisation focused on making a difference, with world class delivery capability.
About Defra
Find out more about us and the work we do across the UK.
Our Careers
From writing environmental policy, to delivering operational science, to protecting plant and animal health, to delivering the digital services that support our work.
Our Benefits
We offer an attractive and competitive benefits package.
Our Culture
Learn more about what it is like to work for Defra.
Our Locations
Find out more about where and how we work.
How to Apply
Everything you need to know to help you with our application process.
“Defra group improves and protects the essentials of life: food, water, land, and air. We drive economic growth, enhance nature, strengthen food security and protect animals, people and property from disease and flooding. Our impact extends beyond borders, sharing expertise and shaping policies globally.”
Paul Kissack
Permanent Secretary at the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
Explore agencies and public bodies working with Defra
Farmers lead the next wave of greener, smarter farming
New £2.3m fund backs 30 farm tech trials testing lower emission machinery, digital tools and peat-free compost to boost productivity and sustainability.
UK secures £840m in valuable fishing opportunities for 2026
Agreements between the UK, EU, Norway and other coastal states secure access to over 80 stocks for British fishing industry.
Major potato pest eradicated from the UK
The Colorado beetle, a major threat to potato crops, was found in Kent in 2023.