Let’s find your next opportunity
AI Assistant: {{ chat.assistant.message }}
{{meta?.totalCount}}
results found
Sort By
{{ job.job_posting_title
}}
{{ job.job_posting_title }}
{{ job.is_cms_job ? (job.cities.split(';').length > 1 ? 'Various locations' : job.location_mappings[0]) : (job.location_mappings.length > 1 ? 'Various locations' : job.location_mappings[0]) }}
We are sorry there are no jobs that match your exact criteria. Try a new search term, or use the filters to continue browsing for available opportunities.
Suggested roles matches
{{ job.title }}
{{ job.title }}
{{ [job.cities[0], job.regions[0], job.countries[0]].join(', ') }}
Various locations
We are sorry there are no jobs that match your exact criteria. Try a new search term, or use the filters to continue browsing for available opportunities.
Let’s find your next opportunity
{{ job.job_posting_title
}}
{{ job.job_posting_title }}
{{ job.is_cms_job ? (job.cities.split(';').length > 1 ? 'Various locations' : job.location_mappings[0]) : (job.location_mappings.length > 1 ? 'Various locations' : job.location_mappings[0]) }}
My name is Vera, and at AtkinsRéalis, I'm a Technical Director, an AtkinsRéalis Fellow, and the Global Technical Authority for Water Quality. The focus of my work is to study sources of pollution and to help protect the water environment. Water quality features in the news almost daily here in the UK. So, I feel that my work is highly relevant and makes a positive impact. It also carries significant social value, as beautiful, ecologically healthy blue-green spaces are vital for our wellbeing and our communities. Read more about my water team.
What does a career in environmental science look like?
I studied Environmental Sciences at university, which included the opportunity to carry out a placement in an oceanography research laboratory in France. This sparked my interest in environmental chemistry and aquatic biogeochemical cycling. I then did a PhD in organic biogeochemistry, followed by a Marie Curie Skłodowska Fellowship, studying the molecular structure of oceanic carbon at research institutes in France and the US.
That early passion for aquatic science led me into environmental consultancy nearly 20 years ago. I began working as an environmental scientist specialising in water quality here at AtkinsRéalis, where I have been able to have a fantastic career in my field. I now lead a global team of experts working on the topic of water quality and water pollution. Search environment and geoscience roles at AtkinsRéalis.
How I grew as a senior water quality specialist?
A really pivotal moment in my career was being awarded an AtkinsRéalis President's award in 2021. Realizing that one of my directors had noticed my work and nominated me, and that it was then recognized at such a senior level in the organization, made me feel immensely valued. I'm very fortunate that other awards and nominations have followed since, but I always remember the President's award as a pivotal moment in my professional growth. Learn about our organization's awards.
Other key moments in my career have included, for example, receiving great feedback from a client when carrying out a secondment on an important water quality policy topic; completing a project on antimicrobial resistance, which led to more opportunities in this emerging and important field; and a discussion with a colleague who told me how much they believed in my abilities.
Advancing as a technical director in environmental consultancy
During the first decade of my career, I focused on growing my technical expertise. I developed my skills in water quality modelling, trace substances in water and antimicrobial resistance in the environment. This exciting time allowed me to establish my technical reputation among colleagues and clients. It provided me with a solid foundation to advance my career. View technical director opportunities with AtkinsRéalis.
I then started gradually taking on more opportunities to manage and coordinate projects, and I really enjoyed it. Although I still love the technical work, overseeing projects gave me a different perspective on our work and enhanced my understanding of the commercial aspects of my role.
Finally, I've always tried to make time to take a 'step back' and think about where my career is going. Writing down a career plan, articulating aspirations and dreams, and discussing those with my managers and mentors, has been a powerful tool in helping me focus my career journey. How we empower every colleague to reach their goals.
Tap here to discover more about Vera's team and scroll down to browse related opportunities.
Related blogs
AtkinsRéalis named in The Times Top 50 Employers for Gender Equality 2026
Fourth year running, independently assessed. See what’s actually changed in how we hire, develop and support our people.
Mike on mega projects, reinvention, and aviation at Denver International
From mega projects to airport expansion, read how AtkinsRéalis helped Mike grow beyond project delivery.
Growing through challenges: Vincent’s journey at AtkinsRéalis
Today, I hold a hybrid role at AtkinsRéalis that combines business development, project management, and technical project delivery. My career path reflects the opportunities I chose to embrace, driven by a constant desire to learn and take on new professional challenges.
From intern to project manager: Felix on nine years of building an aviation career
Meet Felix, a Project Manager helping shape the future of aviation through digital innovation and major airport projects across Texas.
Choosing potential over position: Abhijith's journey from Trainee to Civil Lead.
Abhijit's journey shows how choosing the right opportunity can lead to extraordinary career growth.
Sam on turning climate science into practical decisions
Meet Sam, a Principal Climate Adaptation Consultant helping clients navigate climate risk with confidence.
Shaping sustainable impact at scale with Mania
Meet Mania, a sustainability leader turning bold ambitions into infrastructure that delivers lasting value for people, communities, and the environment.
This is what sustainability really looks like: Athena Cheng's story
An inside look at how sustainability goes beyond data. Bringing inclusion, empathy, and real community impact into infrastructure projects.
From a team of three to a thriving BIM Hub: Vikas’s growth story at AtkinsRéalis.
Growth looks different for everyone. For Vikas, it meant helping build a team while building a rewarding career.
Building strong teams and stronger communities: Dhara’s career at AtkinsRéalis
Today, I’m the Manager, Municipal Infrastructure, Ontario at AtkinsRéalis, where I lead a multidisciplinary team of more than 40 professionals while overseeing the delivery of complex municipal infrastructure projects. It’s a role that allows me to combine my passion for project delivery with my commitment to supporting and developing people.
It's a great time to build your career in Water
As Water Sector Lead at AtkinsRéalis, Mei leads projects focused on water resilience, environmental improvement and major water infrastructure programmes. Her work supports sustainable water management and long-term climate resilience.
AtkinsRéalis named among the 50 GREAT British Employers of Veterans
Proven commitment to those who’ve served, see how AtkinsRéalis supports Armed Forces talent beyond words.
Related jobs
Everyone belongs
We empower each individual to shine and contribute to our collective impact. We believe in the power of unique perspectives. It’s how we’re engineering a better future every single day.