From environmental scientist to technical director: My career journey in water quality

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.