Careers in environmental science

Learn more about careers in environmental science

As part of National Careers Week, we delivered a programme of webinars designed to broaden understanding of the diverse careers available to students studying environmental science.

The initiative brought together professionals from across the environmental sector to share insight into real-world roles, career pathways, and the skills required to address current and future environmental challenges. The events aimed to support students and educators by showing how academic learning connects to real-world practice and career opportunities in the environmental sector. All sessions are available to watch on YouTube, so you can explore them at your own pace.

Careers across five themes

The week was structured around key areas of environmental careers and informed by IES Communities:

Environmental Careers Overview: An introduction to the breadth of roles within the environmental sector.
Land: Careers linked to land contamination, soil science, impact assessment and infrastructure.
Air: Roles focused on air quality, emissions monitoring, atmospheric science, and environmental regulation.
Water: Opportunities within hydrology, water resources, marine and freshwater science, and water quality management.
Climate and Nature: Careers addressing climate change, biodiversity, nature recovery, and sustainability-led decision-making.

Each session featured professionals from our Communities reflecting on their own career journeys and day-to-day work. They offered practical perspectives for students considering future employment in the environmental field.