Environmental Scientist – Year in Industry

Why this role matters

Use environmental science to support compliance and responsible operations. You’ll collect and analyse environmental data that supports regulatory duties, permit compliance and the safe, responsible operation of AWE’s sites.

At a glance

Entry requirement

You should be working towards at least a 2:2 degree in Environmental Science, Natural Sciences, Geography, Chemistry or Environmental Management. You must be graduating in either 2029 or 2030.

Security clearance

You must be a UK national, hold a UK passport, have lived in the UK for the past 10 years and be willing and able to obtain and maintain DV security clearance.

Working pattern

A 9-day working fortnight, with every second Friday off. This is an on-site, office and laboratory-based role at Aldermaston, near Reading. Due to the nature and security of the work, we cannot guarantee opportunities to work from home.

Key dates

Applications close: 31 October 2026

Start date: 2 August 2027

What you could work on

• Environmental monitoring: Collect and analyse aqueous, airborne particulate, sediment and organic samples to support regulatory duties.

• Programme development: Support environmental programme reviews and Best Available Techniques studies and statements.

• Field sampling: Help develop practical sampling capabilities and understand how field evidence supports compliance.

• Waste characterisation and data: Support major projects through planning, scientific analysis, statistical reporting, data handling and permit-compliance uploads.

Why being onsite will support your development

This is an on-site, office and laboratory-based placement. Due to the nature and security of our work, we cannot guarantee opportunities to work from home for part of the week. Being onsite means you’ll learn directly from subject matter experts, access hands-on support and build connections across technical teams. This day-to-day access can accelerate your development and help you get more from your placement year.

The key skills we’re looking for

• Scientific curiosity: You enjoy understanding environmental evidence and how it supports real decisions.

• Attention to detail: You can collect, record and handle scientific information carefully and accurately.

• Data confidence: You’re comfortable working with data, spotting patterns and communicating findings clearly.

• Collaboration: You can learn from specialists and work positively with technical teams, customers and project colleagues.

Where this placement could take you

You’ll gain practical experience in environmental monitoring, field sampling, laboratory processes, regulatory reporting and data analysis. The placement can prepare you for careers in environmental science, sustainability, regulation, waste management or related technical fields, with the potential to return to AWE through a future graduate opportunity.

What happens after you apply

1. Online application  Submit your application as soon as possible.

2. Online testing  If eligible, you’ll complete numerical, verbal, logical and cognitive reasoning assessments, with practice materials available.

3. Virtual assessment centre  Successful candidates will be invited to a virtual assessment centre, expected between October 2026 and January 2027.

4. Pre-assessment support  You’ll be invited to a webinar with practical guidance on what to expect.

5. Offer and clearance  If successful, you’ll move into the offer and security-clearance stages ahead of joining on 2 August 2027.

Applications close on 31 October 2026, but apply as soon as possible. We will close the role early once we receive enough applications.