Graduate ES Advisor Review

My experience at Balfour Beatty has been extremely positive. Over the past year I have had the opportunity to work on a major infrastructure project, take on meaningful responsibilities, and develop both professionally and personally. I have been supported by a knowledgeable and approachable team, while also being trusted to manage my own workload and contribute to project objectives. The variety of work and exposure to different aspects of environmental sustainability have made it a rewarding and enjoyable experience.

As an Environmental Sustainability Advisor, my responsibilities include supporting environmental compliance and sustainability performance across the project. This involves conducting site inspections, monitoring environmental risks and opportunities, managing environmental records, supporting ecological protection measures, reviewing waste documentation, investigating environmental incidents, and contributing to sustainability reporting and project improvement initiatives.
The aspects I enjoy most are the variety of the role and the opportunity to work closely with different teams across the project. I particularly enjoy visiting site, identifying practical environmental improvements, investigating issues to find root causes, and helping to share good practice so that lessons learned can benefit other projects. I also enjoy seeing environmental and sustainability initiatives translate into tangible outcomes for the project.

I feel that my role provides a strong opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the project and wider business. I have been trusted with responsibilities that have allowed me to take ownership of tasks, support environmental decision-making, and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives. My input is listened to by colleagues and I feel valued both within the Environmental Sustainability team and when working with operational teams across the project. This has helped build confidence and made my work feel worthwhile and impactful.

I believe the overall compensation package fairly reflects the responsibilities of the role and the opportunities available to develop professionally. The benefits package provides a range of useful options that support both wellbeing and financial planning.
The benefits I have found most valuable include:
Annual leave entitlement and flexibility.
Pension contributions.
Training and development opportunities.
Employee discounts and reward schemes.
The opportunity to gain experience on a major infrastructure project while developing industry knowledge and professional skills.

The role has prepared me exceptionally well for my future career by providing exposure to a wide range of environmental and sustainability activities. I have developed practical experience in environmental compliance, sustainability reporting, stakeholder engagement, environmental incident investigations, and ecological management. Working on a major infrastructure project has also improved my confidence, problem-solving abilities, and understanding of how environmental considerations are integrated into project delivery. The experience gained this year has given me a strong foundation for future career progression within the environmental and sustainability profession.

The support I have received throughout the year has been excellent. My line manager has been approachable, supportive and always willing to provide guidance when needed, while also giving me the independence to develop confidence in my role. Colleagues across the wider team have been generous with their time and knowledge, helping me build both technical understanding and practical experience. I have always felt comfortable asking questions and seeking advice, which has been invaluable during my development. Regular conversations and constructive feedback have helped me continue to progress and take on greater responsibility.

I feel that Balfour Beatty provides a good work-life balance. The flexibility available allows me to manage my workload effectively while maintaining time for personal commitments and wellbeing. Although there are occasionally busier periods, there is a strong understanding of the importance of maintaining a healthy balance between work and personal life. The flexibility around hybrid working and the supportive culture within the team have contributed positively to both my wellbeing and productivity.

The culture at Balfour Beatty is welcoming, collaborative and inclusive. From my first day, colleagues across different teams have been approachable and willing to help, creating a positive working environment. The company's values are visible in day-to-day activities, particularly around safety, sustainability, teamwork and continuous improvement. The hybrid working approach also provides flexibility whilst still ensuring opportunities to collaborate and build relationships with colleagues. Overall, it is an environment where people are encouraged to contribute, develop and succeed.

Balfour Beatty demonstrates a strong commitment to equality, diversity, inclusion and accessibility through a range of initiatives, awareness campaigns and employee networks. Throughout the year I have seen a genuine effort to create an environment where everyone feels respected, valued and able to contribute. Regular communications, events and discussions help raise awareness and encourage inclusive behaviours across the business. This commitment helps create a positive culture where people from different backgrounds can thrive.

Yes

I would recommend Balfour Beatty to a friend because it provides a supportive environment where graduates are given genuine responsibility while still receiving the guidance needed to develop professionally. Throughout my time with the business, I have been trusted to contribute to meaningful work on a major infrastructure project, while being supported by experienced colleagues who are invested in my development.
The variety of work, opportunities to learn, and exposure to different aspects of project delivery have made the experience both rewarding and enjoyable. I have also found the culture to be welcoming, collaborative and focused on helping individuals develop their skills and progress their careers.

The role closely matched the expectations set during the recruitment process. The responsibilities, opportunities for development and day-to-day activities were accurately represented, and I have been given exposure to a broad range of environmental and sustainability topics. If anything, the role has offered more variety and responsibility than I originally expected, which has further enhanced my experience and professional development.