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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our Waste Management Graduate Programme and tackle real-world environmental challenges.
- Company: Thames Water, a leader in sustainable waste management.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous holiday, health perks, and a strong pension scheme.
- Why this job: Make a positive impact on communities while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Degree in Environmental or STEM-related fields; driving license required.
- Other info: Empowering mentorship, hands-on training, and opportunities for personal growth.
The predicted salary is between 32000 - 34000 £ per year.
Are you ready to play a key role in keeping communities thriving and protecting the environment? At Thames Water, our two-year Learning to Lead Waste Management Graduate Programme gives you the chance to rotate through two hands-on operational placements, tackling the challenges of collecting and treating millions of litres of wastewater every day.
What you’ll be doing as a Waste Management Graduate
- Year 1: Home Counties Region
Support the Head of Region and senior leadership by driving key initiatives and strategic priorities. Gain frontline exposure, coordination experience, and insight into high-impact decision-making while working across functions, for a full view of waste operations. - Year 2: Maple Lodge Site/Thames Water site in Rickmansworth and surrounding area
Learn to step into a leadership role within the Waste team, you will support managing day-to-day operations and driving improvements in wastewater treatment. Work with the site team to lead a multi-skilled team, monitor performance, ensure compliance, and champion operational excellence.
Beyond the Programme
Progress into a frontline leadership role with ownership of operational teams and site performance, or specialise in a technical area depending on your skills and interests.
Across your two‑year journey, you’ll be empowered by dedicated mentors and managers, with opportunities to:
- Accelerate your business and personal growth through real-world development experiences
- Build essential safety confidence with hands‑on health and safety training
- Make a difference by getting involved in meaningful charity projects and personalised coaching
- Expand your network through mentoring and collaboration with fellow graduates
- Inspire future talent by becoming a Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics ambassador
What you should bring to the role
- Achieved or working towards a bachelor’s or master’s degree in the following disciplines: Environmental Engineering, Civil Engineering, Environmental Management, Construction Management, Chemical Engineering, Environmental Science, Geology or Hydrogeology, Chemistry, STEM or management related degree
- A full driving license, access to own vehicle and business travel insurance is required due to travel across your assigned region
- A self-motivated, adaptable mindset confident in stepping into new environments
What’s in it for you?
- Starting salary: Year 1 £32,000, Year 2 £34,000
- Start Date: September 2026
- Location: Year 1 - Travel required across the Home Counties Region. Year 2 – Maple Lodge Site or another TW site in Rickmansworth/Surrounding area
- 26 days holiday per year increasing to 30 with the length of service (plus bank holidays)
- Performance-related pay plan directly linked to company performance measures and targets
- Generous Pension Scheme through AON
- Access to lots of benefits to help you take care of you and your family’s health and wellbeing, and your finances – from annual health MOTs and access to physiotherapy and counselling, to Cycle to Work schemes, shopping vouchers and life assurance
Waste Management Graduate in Stockport employer: Thames Water
Contact Detail:
Thames Water Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Waste Management Graduate in Stockport
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees at Thames Water on LinkedIn or through your university connections. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching Thames Water's values and recent projects. Show us that you're not just interested in the role, but also in making a real impact in waste management.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your STAR technique for answering competency questions. We want to hear about your experiences and how they relate to the skills needed for the Waste Management Graduate Programme.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining the team!
We think you need these skills to ace Waste Management Graduate in Stockport
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Waste Management Graduate role. Highlight any relevant projects or coursework from your degree that showcase your understanding of environmental management and engineering.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your passion for waste management and how you can contribute to Thames Water's mission. Be sure to mention why you're excited about the Learning to Lead programme and what you hope to achieve.
Showcase Your Adaptability: Since this role involves rotating through different placements, emphasise your adaptability and willingness to learn. Share examples of times when you've successfully navigated new environments or challenges in your studies or previous work.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for the best chance of success. This way, you’ll ensure your application reaches the right people and you can easily keep track of your application status!
How to prepare for a job interview at Thames Water
✨Know Your Waste Management Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the basics of waste management and environmental engineering. Understand Thames Water's role in the community and how they tackle wastewater challenges. Being able to discuss current trends and issues in the industry will show your passion and preparedness.
✨Show Off Your Team Spirit
Since this role involves working with multi-skilled teams, be ready to share examples of your teamwork experience. Think about times when you’ve collaborated effectively or led a group project. Highlighting your ability to work well with others will resonate with the interviewers.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions that demonstrate your interest in the programme and the company. Inquire about the specific challenges the Waste Management team faces or how they measure success in their operations. This shows you’re not just interested in the role, but also in contributing to their goals.
✨Be Yourself and Stay Positive
Interviews can be nerve-wracking, but remember to be yourself! Show your enthusiasm for the role and the company. A positive attitude can go a long way in making a great impression. Don’t forget to smile and engage with your interviewers – it makes a difference!
