Case studies : Geo-environmental consultant: Harold

Harold completed a BSc in Exploration and Research Geology and then secured a student internship with his current employer while completing an MSc in Applied Environmental Geology.

I work as an environmental consultant dealing in the contaminated land sector. I work in a small team which is part of a large international consultancy. As a consultant, I am responsible for research, data gathering, site investigation supervision, interpretation of data and report writing for specific sites, as required by the company's clients. I really enjoy my job as it provides a good variety and is often a different job every day. I particularly enjoy the opportunity to do site work, as it gives me the chance to work outdoors and to work as part of a team.

I chose to enter this field as I enjoyed the subject matter from A-level through to Masters. I had gained some relevant experience from my degree which assisted me in securing the position, including skills relating to relevant British Standards (BS5930 & BS1377), the ability to use specialist computer programs, mathematical skills, report writing skills and knowledge of geo-technical practices and soil mechanics.

Since I started in the role, my job has developed. On starting, I was responsible for data input, quality control, sample taking and support to field operations. Now (after two years) I have been assigned roles including interpretive report writing, site management and project design. In the future I hope to progress by gaining increased responsibility in site management and project design/management and progress to senior consultant level.

My advice for anyone who is interested in environmental consultancy as a career, within contaminated land, would be to show an interest in environmental practices used in industry and gain knowledge through personal research. If possible, try to secure a student placement and use it to your advantage. Make yourself useful and get as broad a range of experience as possible. If you choose an MSc with a paid placement option, that is a bonus.