Work Placement Environment Jobs

Leading work placement employers

Helping you find a career in the environment industry

If you're concerned about climate change or making companies more energy efficient, then the environment industry is the place for you. The environment industry utilises the latest scientific techniques to challenge the problems our environment faces today. You'll get to spend a lot of time outdoors and travelling around the country.

The environment industry deals with everything from conservation, to wildlife management, to forestry. It's a huge field with lots of opportunities for people with interests in different areas of the environment. Often, you'll be working with people from different sectors of the industry, so teamwork is crucial.

It can be a very practical job. You'll be out and about surveying different projects and areas. There are less active elements to the role too so you get some indoor time too: you'll also have to keep up to date on the latest scientific developments, so there are also elements of environmental work that involve independent research.

Some disciplines within the industry will require specialised degrees, such as for meteorology or environmental engineering. Other roles like park rangers will not require a university education and can be attained through apprenticeships. Whatever your level of education, the environment industry has position for you!

N Written by Navdeep

Find out more

FAQs

FAQs

Skills & interests you'll need

This will vary somewhat depending on the particular role you're hoping for within the industry. At the very least, you'll need a passion for nature and the environment.

As the work is often practical, you'll need to be comfortable working outdoors. Some positions, such as park rangers, will often work alone, so for those roles you'll need to be happy to work independently. Other roles will require more teamwork and personal interaction. Consider whether you prefer to work alone, in a team, or a mixture before pursuing a particular career path.

A knowledge of science will also be required. The amount of scientific training you'll need will depend on your role. Some positions will require a particular degree, while others will provide basic training that will suffice.

The environment is also a highly political issue. Knowing what's happening in the wider world of environmental politics will also be useful.

Other important skills include:

How to get Environment internships, work experience or placements

It is always good to prove your commitment to the environment. One way to do this is to volunteer for environmental work for charities and companies. You could also take positions in other areas of the industry that require less specific qualifications. Working in an environmental company's office will show your interest while familiarising you with the industry.

Certain roles will have graduate schemes for after you've finished your degree. This will mean you'll have a career path soon after leaving university.

Training is available through various courses that will enable you to advance through the industry. Industry bodies like the Institute of Environmental Management & Assessment (IEMA), the Institution of Environmental Sciences (IES), the Society for the Environment (SocEnv), and the Institute of Agricultural Management (IAgrM) can offer these courses.

Sending out speculative emails detailing your own skills will allow you to introduce yourself. You may also be able to find work experience which will get your foot in the door and allow you to meet people who may be able to help you take your next step in your career.

Read more about the Environment industry

Soil Association

Countryside Management Association

Countryside Alliance

Environmental Services Association

Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environment Management

Institute of Environmental Management & Assessment (IEMA)

Institution of Environmental Sciences (IES)

Society for the Environment (SocE)