Environmental consultants work with organisations to assess and minimise their impact on the environment. This includes carrying out environmental impact assessments, advising on waste management, pollution control, and compliance with environmental laws. Consultants may also help companies develop sustainability strategies or remediate contaminated land. The job often involves desk-based research as well as site visits and fieldwork. Strong communication and analytical skills are important, as the role involves reporting findings and making recommendations to clients, regulators, and the public.
Environmental consultants in the UK typically earn between £22,000 and £65,000 per year, depending on experience and specialism.
The environmental sector has seen steady growth, with over 6,000 environmental consultancy firms employing more than 35,000 people in the UK as of 2023.
Around 40 percent of new positions in environmental consultancy are filled by recent graduates, making it a strong career option for university leavers.
Specialises in assessing and managing air pollution levels, often working with local councils and businesses to ensure compliance with environmental regulations.
Focuses on assessing the impact of development projects on local wildlife and habitats, carrying out surveys and advising on biodiversity protection.
Works on sites where land or water may be polluted, investigating contamination and recommending solutions for clean-up and safe redevelopment.
Focus on subjects such as Geography, Biology, Chemistry, and Environmental Science at GCSE and A-level.
Selecting science-based subjects provides a strong grounding for further study in environmental fields. Geography and science A-levels are often required for university entry. Consider taking coursework or projects related to the environment where possible.
Apply for a degree in Environmental Science, Environmental Engineering, Ecology, or a related field.
Most environmental consultant roles require a degree. Look for accredited courses with practical fieldwork, laboratory skills, and modules covering environmental legislation. Some universities also offer placement years to gain work experience.
Gain experience through internships, volunteering, or part-time roles with environmental organisations, consultancies, or charities.
Practical experience is highly valued by employers. Seek placements during university holidays or as part of your course. Volunteering with local conservation projects or environmental charities can also strengthen your CV.
Learn to use tools and software such as GIS (Geographic Information Systems), data analysis programs, and environmental monitoring equipment.
Familiarity with technical tools is essential for many consultant roles. Attend workshops or online courses to boost your skills in areas like mapping, report writing, and environmental sampling techniques.
Look for graduate schemes or junior environmental consultant positions with consultancies, government agencies, or large companies.
Tailor your CV and cover letter to highlight your academic background and any relevant work experience. Be prepared to demonstrate your knowledge of environmental regulations and problem-solving skills during interviews.
Become a member of organisations such as the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment (IEMA) and work towards chartered status.
Professional membership offers networking opportunities, resources, and further training. Continuing professional development (CPD) is important for career progression and may include short courses, attending conferences, or gaining specialist qualifications.
Environmental scientists research and analyse environmental problems, often working in laboratories or the field to collect data and develop solutions for issues such as pollution or conservation.
Sustainability officers work within organisations to develop and implement policies that promote sustainable business practices and reduce environmental impact.
Ecologists study the relationships between living organisms and their environment, often carrying out surveys or impact assessments for development projects.
Please note that this may not be a comprehensive list of available apprenticeships. To view a more complete collection, visit the Find an apprenticeship service.
Click on any card to be redirected to their vacancy page.
MYHEALTH PHARMACY LTD
( Added 26 Jul 2024 - 1 position available )
An opportunity has arisen with My Health Pharmacy. You will be taking in and handing out prescriptions, dispensing and selling over the counter medicines. You will work towards a Level 3 Pharmacy Technician (integrated) apprenticeship standard.
Closing date: in 1 month
Possible start date: 30 Nov 2025
Healthways Chemist
( Added 26 Jul 2024 - 1 position available )
An opportunity has arisen with Healthways Chemist. You will be taking in and handing out prescriptions, dispensing and selling over the counter medicines. You will work towards a Level 3 Pharmacy Technician (integrated) Apprenticeship Standard.
Closing date: in 1 month
Possible start date: 30 Nov 2025
Arkle Pharmacy
( Added 26 Jul 2024 - 1 position available )
An opportunity has arisen with Arkle Pharmacy. You will be taking in and handing out prescriptions, dispensing and selling over the counter medicines. You will work towards a Level 3 Pharmacy Technician (integrated) Apprenticeship Standard.
Closing date: in 1 month
Possible start date: 30 Nov 2025
Meraj Pharmacy
( Added 26 Jul 2024 - 1 position available )
An opportunity has arisen with Meraj Pharmacy. You will be taking in and handing out prescriptions, dispensing and selling over the counter medicines. You will work towards a Level 3 Pharmacy Technician (integrated) apprenticeship standard.
Closing date: in 1 month
Possible start date: 30 Nov 2025
FLYPHARM LTD
( Added 26 Jul 2024 - 1 position available )
An opportunity has arisen with Blue Dew Pharmacy. You will be taking in and handing out prescriptions, dispensing and selling over the counter medicines. You will work towards a Level 3 Pharmacy Technician (integrated) apprenticeship standard.
Closing date: in 1 month
Possible start date: 30 Nov 2025
ROSE HEALTHCARE LTD
( Added 26 Jul 2024 - 1 position available )
An opportunity has arisen with Rose Pharmacy. You will be taking in and handing out prescriptions, dispensing and selling over the counter medicines. You will work towards a Level 3 Pharmacy Technician (integrated) Apprenticeship Standard.
Closing date: in 1 month
Possible start date: 30 Nov 2025
TOWER Pharmacy
( Added 26 Jul 2024 - 1 position available )
An opportunity has arisen with Tower Pharmacy. You will be taking in and handing out prescriptions, dispensing and selling over the counter medicines. You will work towards a Level 3 Pharmacy Technician (integrated) apprenticeship standard.
Closing date: in 1 month
Possible start date: 30 Nov 2025
TRIO PHARMA LIMITED
( Added 26 Jul 2024 - 1 position available )
An opportunity has arisen with Trio Pharmacy.You will be taking in and handing out prescriptions, dispensing and selling over the counter medicines. You will work towards a Level 3 Pharmacy Technician (integrated) apprenticeship standard.
Closing date: in 1 month
Possible start date: 30 Nov 2025
This page showcases various career options and the pathways to reach them. Each career listed here shares transferable skills and knowledge, making it easier for individuals to transition between them.
Your current career is highlighted to help you see how it fits into the broader landscape of potential career choices. By clicking on any career, you can learn more about it, including the training and education required to pursue it.
Remember, progressing in your career often involves further learning and training. This page provides insights into future career options as well as those that can lead up to your current one.
These career progression decisions are informed by comparing the skills and knowledge needed for different occupations, along with data on how people move between them. Explore the possibilities and discover the exciting journey ahead in your career!
The role of an environmental consultant closely aligns with that of an acoustics consultant, as both involve assessing environmental impacts, conducting technical analyses, and providing specialised advice to clients. Both careers require a strong understanding of environmental science and the ability to interpret complex data to support sustainable decision-making.
You can get into this job through:
You'll usually need a degree or postgraduate qualification in environmental science, environmental studies or environmental sustainability.
You might also be able to take a related subject like:
You'll usually need:
You could apply to do an Environmental Practitioner Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship.
You might also specialise by completing a Soil Scientist Level 7 Apprenticeship. This is equivalent to study at postgraduate level.
Employers will set their own entry requirements.
Volunteering is a great way of getting experience and a taste of environmental work. It will also give you the opportunity to develop your skills and make contacts.
Organisations who offer volunteering opportunities include:
You can find more opportunities through the Countryside Jobs Service.
As a graduate you could look for environmental postgraduate training positions offered through a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP).
In a KTP, you get the opportunity to run a research project together with an organisation and a university or research body. You may also work towards postgraduate qualifications.
You can join the Society for the Environment for your professional development and to make industry contacts.
You can discover more about environmental work and training through:
Explore other careers or use our AI to discover personalised paths based on your interests.
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