Making a real difference to our environment and communities in Wales
Are you looking for a career where you can make a real difference to our environment in Wales?
Have you considered a career in environmental engineering tackling important issues such as flooding, coastal erosion, mines legacy remediation or sustainable drainage? As an environmental engineer you could make a difference to environmental issues that really matter to people in Wales and embark on an exciting career.
As our climate changes, Wales is facing new challenges from more intense rainfall and sea level rises to droughts. These changes increase the risk of flooding, threatening homes, infrastructure, and lives. They also bring new challenges in managing the legacy of our industrial past—especially former mine sites across the country, which can pose additional environmental and safety risks when disturbed.
If you’re passionate about protecting people and the environment in Wales, a career in environmental engineering could be for you. This is your chance to help build a safer, more resilient Wales for future generations.
Launch your career with a 10-month paid work placement
The Welsh Government, in partnership with Welsh Local Government Association and participating councils are offering 10-month paid work placements to help you take your first steps into the world of environmental engineering—with a focus on flood and coastal risk management, mines legacy remediation and drainage.
What’s on offer?
- Placement duration: 31 May 2026 – 31 March 2027
- Host organisations: Participating councils in Wales
- Support: In-work training, mentoring, and professional development
- Outcomes: Real-world experience, new skills, and a stepping stone to a long-term career
Applications
The Programme welcomes applications from a wide range of backgrounds—what matters most is your interest in the environment and your motivation to build a career in this exciting and challenging sector. Please refer to councils’ adverts for specific details.
You may be:
- About to complete your studies with a relevant degree-level qualification [*1] and looking for a work placement opportunity, or
- working in a related field [*2], with relevant work experience [*2] and are looking for a new career path.
*1 relevant qualification will include any Science, Engineering, Geography, Geology, Mathematics, Hydrology, Water Resources, Mining and related subjects.
*2 relevant experience is very wide ranging and may include any environmental, engineering, project management, infrastructure, environmental services roles, or related experience working in or with, central or local government.
Inclusive and supportive
Through the Programme, we particularly encourage applications from individuals who are currently underrepresented in the sector, including women, people from ethnic minority backgrounds, disabled people, and Welsh speakers.
What happens after the placement?
After your placement, you may return to your studies, you may have an opportunity to continue with your host employer, or you may use your new skills and experience to secure a role elsewhere. You will be part of a wider network of placement participants across Wales and will be notified of future opportunities in the sector.