What does an environmental consultant do?
Environmental consultants help clients understand and reduce their environmental impact. They assess sites, write environmental impact reports, advise on regulations, carbon reduction and sustainability strategy.
Salary
These are approximate UK figures for guidance only, not guaranteed salaries. Pay varies by employer, location and experience. Approximate. Check the National Careers Service and Prospects for current figures.
How do you become an environmental consultant?
- A levels in sciences or geography
- Environmental science, geography or similar degree (or apprenticeship)
- Graduate consultant
- Environmental Consultant
A relevant degree is common and a Master's can help. Environmental practitioner degree apprenticeships are also offered by some consultancies.
Routes vary. Always check entry requirements with course providers, employers and the relevant professional body.
Do you need a degree?
Usually required
Main routes in: Degree, Apprenticeship, Postgraduate degree.
Useful subjects
- Geography
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Maths
Skills you'll need
- Report writing
- Client communication
- Regulatory knowledge
- Data analysis
- Project management
Where could you work?
- Environmental consultancies
- Engineering firms
- Developers
- Energy companies
What is the work like?
Mostly office or hybrid work with site visits. Project deadlines and client communication are a big part of the job.
Career progression
Progress from graduate to senior and principal consultant, associate or director, or move in-house as a sustainability manager.
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Written by the STEMLaunch Editorial Team. Last updated 2026-10-05. General careers information only; check details with official sources such as the National Careers Service, NHS Careers, UCAS and professional bodies.