Graduate Engineering Geologist

What made you want to apply for a graduate role at Mott MacDonald?

Mott MacDonald’s strong industry reputation and the positive interactions I had with graduates and employees at careers fairs made a lasting impression. A conversation with a graduate working on a project during a placement I had with a small ground investigation company further reinforced the appeal, highlighting the supportive culture, technical excellence, and exciting project opportunities that Mott MacDonald offers.

How do you manage your time to ensure a healthy work-life balance, and how are you supported in this?

Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is supported through a mix of flexible working arrangements and personal routines. Working from home once or twice a week provides flexibility, however I prefer my time in the office due to the valuable social interactions. Outside of work, running, swimming, and cycling help maintain my physical and mental wellbeing. Running particularly fits well around a busy schedule due to its simplicity and accessibility. Participation in Early Career Professional (ECP) socials, which are actively encouraged and funded by the team and senior staff, also contributes to a positive and balanced work environment.

What is the most interesting project and/or piece of work you have been involved in so far?

The Lower Thames Crossing (LTC) ground investigation has been the most rewarding project so far. Being on site offered firsthand exposure to drilling works, installation techniques, operational management experience, as well as soil and rock logging, allowing for a deeper understanding of geotechnical processes and standards. Supervising works on the ground provided valuable experience in check logging, data validation, and contractor coordination. The project struck a great balance between site and office work, and when a return to the office was requested for development purposes, it was fully supported, highlighting the flexibility and encouragement for growth within my team and the wider company.

What development opportunities have you had since joining and how have you been supported in this?

Development has been strongly supported through structured chartership guidance, regular Continuous Professional Development (CPD) opportunities, and access to both internal and external learning resources. Lunchtime and evening talks hosted by the Geological Society, alongside Mott MacDonald’s internal sessions, have provided valuable technical insights and networking opportunities. As a result of this engagement, I was elected ECP (Early Career Professional) representative for the Southeast Regional Group of the Geological Society, enabling direct involvement in shaping development opportunities within the company and the wider geotechnical community.

Are you part of any wider company initiatives outside of your day-to-day role?

Yes, involvement in wider initiatives has been a rewarding part of the graduate experience. As the Early Career Professional (ECP) representative for the Southeast Regional Group of the Geological Society, there’s an opportunity to contribute to professional development across the region. Internally, I organise my teams lunchtime talks, coordinating both internal and external speakers to share knowledge and insights. I’ve also supported the company’s summer work experience initiative by hosting four students over two weeks, introducing them to the industry, and guiding them through technical tasks with structured feedback and support. Beyond technical activities, I took part in the JP Morgan Corporate Challenge run, on behalf of Mott MacDonald, and contribute to the Global Geotechnics Practice through all these technical excellence activities, helping to stay connected with the wider geotechnical community.