Environmental consultants provide expert advice on environmental issues such as land contamination, waste management, air and water pollution, and environmental impact assessments. They work with clients in sectors like construction, energy, and government, helping organisations comply with environmental regulations and improve their sustainability. The role often involves site visits, sampling, data analysis, and writing technical reports. Consultants may also contribute to policy development and help clients develop strategies to reduce their environmental footprint.
Environmental consultants in the UK typically earn between £22,000 and £35,000 per year at entry level, rising to £35,000 to £60,000 with experience.
There are over 9,000 environmental consultancy businesses in the UK, reflecting strong demand in both public and private sectors.
Environmental consultancy is a growing sector, with an estimated annual growth rate of around 3 to 5 percent in recent years.
Focuses on assessing and advising on air pollution issues, helping organisations comply with environmental regulations and improve air quality.
Specialises in studying habitats and wildlife, providing advice on how construction or development projects can minimise their impact on the natural environment.
Works on identifying and managing land that has been polluted, offering solutions to clean up and safely redevelop these areas.
Select science subjects such as Biology, Chemistry, or Geography at GCSE and continue with them at A Level.
Subjects like Biology, Chemistry, Geography, and Environmental Science provide a solid base for understanding environmental issues. Good grades in these subjects will help you progress to university courses related to the environment.
Pursue a degree in Environmental Science, Environmental Engineering, Geography, or a similar subject.
Most employers require a relevant degree. Courses may include fieldwork, laboratory work, and opportunities to specialise in areas like pollution control or environmental management. Look for courses accredited by professional bodies such as the Institution of Environmental Sciences (IES).
Get hands-on experience through internships, placements, or volunteering with environmental agencies or consultancies.
Practical experience is highly valued by employers. Seek opportunities during your degree holidays or as part of a sandwich course. Volunteering for conservation groups or local councils can also build relevant skills.
Learn to use tools such as GIS (Geographical Information Systems) and data analysis software.
Environmental consultants often use technical software to analyse data, map sites, and prepare reports. Many universities offer modules in these areas, and free online tutorials can help you develop your skills further.
Look for entry-level positions in environmental consultancies or related organisations.
Many large consultancies and engineering firms offer graduate schemes. Smaller firms may advertise roles on their own websites or through specialist job boards such as Environmentjob.co.uk. Prepare a strong CV highlighting your academic background and practical experience.
Consider joining a professional body such as the Institution of Environmental Sciences (IES) and work towards Chartered Environmentalist status.
Professional accreditation demonstrates your commitment and expertise. It may require a certain level of experience and evidence of continued professional development (CPD). Accredited consultants are often more competitive in the job market.
Conducts scientific research to identify, control, or eliminate sources of pollutants or hazards affecting the environment or public health.
Studies the relationships between living organisms and their environment, often working on conservation projects and biodiversity surveys.
Advises organisations on how to operate more sustainably, developing policies and initiatives to reduce environmental impact.
Explore relevant apprenticeships that can help you kickstart your career in Environmental Consultant. Apprenticeships offer hands-on experience and training while earning a wage.
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!
Both Environmental Consultant and Environmental health practitioner focus on assessing and managing environmental and public health risks. They require knowledge of environmental regulations, monitoring, and advising on health and safety standards related to the environment.
You can get into this job through:
You can study for a degree qualification approved by the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health.
If you already have a degree in a related subject, you could get into environmental health careers through an accredited postgraduate course.
You'll usually need:
You can apply to do an Environmental Health Practitioner Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship.
This usually takes 4 years to complete, as a mix of on-the-job training and academic study at an approved university.
You'll usually need:
You may be able to start as an environmental health technician and study for a part-time environmental health degree while you're working.
With qualifications and experience, you may then be able to work towards chartered practitioner status.
You could join the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health for professional development opportunities.
You can find more on how to become an environmental health practitioner from the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health.
Explore other careers or use our AI to discover personalised paths based on your interests.
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