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Alice Slattery

Assistant Environmental Scientist
What employment sector do you work in?

Private sector

How long have you had a green job for nature?

3 years

Salary Range

£30,000 – £40,000

Please describe the work that you do.

I work for AtkinsRealis in their Natural Capital and Sustainable River Management teams. My role varies from client and stakeholder meetings in the office to surveys, sampling and site walkovers in the field. I work on projects across the UK and collaborate with engineers, flood risk modellers, social value experts and more across the company.

What do you most like about your job? Any dislikes?

I enjoy working with those in my teams to deliver projects which go beyond client expectations. Furthermore, I like the variety of projects and I appreciate how they align with my values to care for and enhance nature.

I dislike when essential project data is delayed as this can impact delivery, however, an adaptable mindset and open communication can allow you to minimise the impacts delays may cause.

What inspired you into this career? 

I grew up in the Lake District so I have an engrained appreciation for the uplands and an awareness of issues that nature and communities in these areas face, i.e., poor water quality, flooding, unsustainable land management, etc.

At university, I studied Earth Sciences and specialised in water management with my master’s research in sustainable remediation of abandoned metal mine leachate in the North Pennines and Wales. Therefore the Water Management Consultancy at AtkinsRealis was the perfect fit to join at the start of my career.

Have you faced any challenges in progressing your career so far? 

No, I was promoted from a Graduate role to an Assistant role after 1 year and 6 months.

What education/training did you have?

I studied MSci Earth Sciences (Environmental Geoscience) at Durham University. I am working towards chartership with my GradCIWEM membership and I am an accredited RCA surveyor (Modular River Survey).

A-Levels – Biology, Chemistry and Maths

What advice would you give to someone coming into the profession? 

Volunteer at local conservation days – these events provide practical experience, new knowledge and the opportunity to network with like-minded people. Also, find opportunities to continue learning through books and podcasts in your interest areas.

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Tags: Scotland, Private sector, research, conservation

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