Graduate Waste Consultant

What do you currently do at Mott MacDonald?

I am a Graduate Waste Consultant at Mott MacDonald. Currently, I am producing an Integrated Waste Strategy to support the Generic Design Assessment (GDA) process for a nuclear new build. This requires having a holistic understanding of the types of wastes generated and how they could be managed safely and in an environmentally friendly manner. Since joining the project, I have learnt a lot about radioactive waste management, especially from the knowledgeable consultants I work with.

Have you been involved in anything in addition to you day job (for instance involvement with early careers network) and what does this involve?

As part of the Mott MacDonald social values commitment, I have recently become a Volunteer for Chapter One, which is a programme to help young readers improve their reading, and therefore, their educational outcomes too. Being a part of the volunteering programme involves hosting a 30-minute reading session every week with a young reader to help them become a more confident reader. I look forward to the progress my student will make and find it really fulfilling that just 30 minutes of my time per week can contribute to improving a child’s educational journey.

What attracted you to apply for a role with us?

During my final year of university, I was looking for a job that would allow me to utilise any skills I gained from my degree, add value to exciting projects and provide me with learning opportunities to help develop myself further. I also wanted a job that would provide me with a great work-life balance, as I value the time spent with family and friends and time for myself. Mott MacDonald ticked all these boxes for me and after being here for a year, I definitely made the right decision when joining this company.

What are the three things that make you look forward to coming into work each day?

• Having the opportunity to add value to an important project.
• Working with experts in my field of work and learning from them to become a better consultant.
• And the free coffee, of course!

What is your team like?

My team is diverse and made up of radioactive waste consultants, radiation protection consultants and environmental consultants at different expertise levels. They are friendly, welcoming, super knowledgeable, and always happy to help.

The recruitment process can be quite daunting. What advice would you give to other graduates looking to join Mott MacDonald?

Research the company and the role you are applying for to make sure it is something you are interested in.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions.

Stay positive and remember to just be yourself!

What kind of career support have you received since joining?

As a chemical engineering graduate, I am working towards achieving chartership with the IChemE. I have been assigned a mentor to guide me, who I regularly catch-up with to evaluate my progress so far and learn how any gaps in my experience can be addressed.

My line manager is also helping me to find suitable work streams for the future that align with the relevant IChemE competencies and address the gaps in my experience.

What’s your work-life balance like?

I’d say I have a healthy work-life balance. Mott MacDonald has agile working, which gives me the choice to work from the office or from home when it suits me and allows me to adjust my work hours when needed. Once I finish a productive day at work, I can focus on my personal life, well-being and avoid the feeling of being burnt-out or overwhelmed.