Identifying the right job

Environmental sciences is a broad sector, as shown by the IES membership which ranges from air quality consultants to waste managers, ecologists to transport specialists, and across the sectors of academia, consultancy, government, industry, and non-governmental organisations. Identifying the right field and sector for you can be difficult without inside knowledge.

The IES has produced a number of video interviews with professionals sharing their career experiences, providing advice for how to start out in their field and enhance career prospects. With interviews by a humanitarian aid worker, sustainability consultant, documentary producer, landscape architect, senior scientific advisor to name but a few, these reflect the wealth of jobs available in environmental sciences. Read the member profiles in the monthly newsletter to learn more about the variety of careers in environmental sciences.

Getting the right job

It can be challenging to launch into your chosen career and so the IES has developed a number of services for members specifically to help in this area.

CV Clinic

Send in your CV to the IES Project Office to receive expert advice on targeting your CV to environmental careers, as well as input about layout and presentation.

Mentoring scheme

Whether you are just starting out or looking to change careers, the IES mentoring scheme can pair you up with an experienced professional currently working your chosen field. Read more about the mentoring scheme and apply to get involved.

Chartership opportunities

Chartership provides you with the opportunity to demonstrate your commitment and capability to future employers. Scheme members who meet the entry criteria have the opportunity to attend a ‘Chartered Environmentalist in a Day’ workshop for free, or to apply for the Chartered Scientist at a discounted rate of £15.

Job opportunities

See the jobs advertised on the IES website specifically for environmental professionals.

New Graduate Workshops

Apply now for a place on the IES’ first graduate workshop on the 24th October. The workshop, entitled “An introduction to project management” addresses topics including general framework of project management, planning a case-study example, reviewing your own management style, effective time management and introducing business systems, methods and culture to build upon the academic knowledge and skills base. To apply send in an application form to Gillon Dobie. Download the flyer to read more about the workshop and other services dedicated to graduates seeking work in environmental science.


Gaining work experience, especially at the beginning of your career, can be challenging. The IES runs a very successful internship scheme, providing people with the opportunity to work on particular projects such as the journal or the website, along with learning about the environment landscape through their interaction with key environmentalists from industry, charities and the Government.

How do I join?

If you are a member of the IES you can join the ‘Back to Work’ or ‘Into Work’ Schemes by simply getting in touch with the IES Project Office. You will then gain access to the services specifically targeted to helping you get your ideal job.

Career Path

Being part of a professional body, such as the Institution of Environmental Sciences can give advantages in career development. The diagram below illustrates a progression a member may follow once part of the Institution.