The environment

What does it involve?

There are many different types of job which involve the environment. Conservation, waste collection, recycling and renewable energy are just a few areas.

Waste management isn't just about collecting household rubbish and managing landfill sites. In industry, there's all sorts of hazardous waste that needs disposing of, such as chemicals, and people with the right qualifications and skills are needed to work out the best way of getting rid of dangerous substances. Some jobs will involve working in a laboratory, others may be more practical and outdoors. As a recycling officer working for a local council you might be encouraging people to recycle and monitor its use.

Nature conservation is about looking after and protecting our countryside. There are lots of jobs, many of which involve working outside and unsociable hours. Jobs range from administrators, shop workers and estate managers to scientists, archaeologists and planners.

If you're interested in climate change and how we could use renewable energy (such as solar or wind power) you could consider becoming an environmental engineer or working for an organisation who campaign for change.

What’s happening in the industry?

The government has set targets for local councils to recycle more household rubbish and as more businesses choose to recycle waste, there are more jobs in this area. There are more small to medium size businesses offering their services as councils look for the best offer to deliver the service.

'Green' energy is a fast growing area too and skilled people are in high demand. More and more people are considering what they can do as individuals and so the industry needs to advise the public and provide solutions.

Competition is stiff for some jobs in conservation as there are limited opportunities within a few of the organisations.

How to get into this type of work

Your Personal Adviser will be able to discuss your options with you.

School or college - study for GCSEs, AS / A levels, NVQs or other vocational qualifications that could lead to a job, an Apprenticeship, further qualifications or even a degree.

e2e (Entry to Employment) - if you’re not sure if you’re suited to this job you might be able to get some work experience through e2e. It can also give you extra support to gain the right qualifications, get onto a training programme or get a job.

Apprenticeship - train ‘on-the-job’ with a wage or allowance. For the latest Apprenticeship vacancies in Nottinghamshire go to Vacancies Online.

Work or work with training

Which skills?

Communication
Team work
Planning and organising
Problem solving
Science (for some jobs)
Information and communication technology (ICT)

What else can I do?

Get some work experience.
Volunteer - there are lots and lots of volunteering opportunities in environment and conservation.
Brush up on some of your skills such as ICT or customer care.
Read about working with the environment on Jobs4U or look for the online EClips job descriptions in your school or nearest Connexions centre.
Talk to your Personal Adviser.

For courses go to My Choice Notts

For job and training vacancies go to Vacancies Online

For more job info go to Jobs4U

For useful links go to Fetch!