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- Tasks: Join our Waste Management Graduate Programme and tackle real-world environmental challenges.
- Company: Thames Water, a leader in sustainable waste management.
- Benefits: 26 days holiday, performance pay, generous pension, and health benefits.
- Why this job: Make a difference while developing your leadership skills in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Bachelor's or master's degree in relevant fields and a full driving licence.
- Other info: Empower your career with mentorship and hands-on experience across diverse locations.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ 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: North London 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: Beckton Sewage Treatment Works/Thames Water sites in East London - Learn to step into a leadership role within the Waste team, 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
To thrive in this role, the essential criteria you’ll need is:
- 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?
Location: Year 1 - Travel required across the North London region. Year 2 – Beckton Sewage Treatment Works or a Thames Water site in East London
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 Programme employer: Thames Water
Contact Detail:
Thames Water Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Waste Management Graduate Programme
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees at Thames Water on LinkedIn or attend industry events. We can’t stress enough how personal connections can give you the inside scoop on the company culture and even lead to job referrals.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to waste management and leadership. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or mentors to boost your confidence and refine your answers.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for environmental issues during interviews. We want to see your enthusiasm for making a difference in waste management, so share any relevant projects or experiences that highlight your commitment.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we often have exclusive opportunities listed there that you won’t find anywhere else.
We think you need these skills to ace Waste Management Graduate Programme
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for the Environment: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for environmental issues shine through. We want to see how your background in Environmental Engineering or related fields connects with our mission at Thames Water.
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Waste Management Graduate Programme. Highlight relevant experiences and skills that align with the job description, so we can see why you’re a perfect fit!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make sure your key achievements stand out. This helps us quickly understand your strengths and potential.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
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 or issues in the industry will show your passion and knowledge.
✨Show Off Your Leadership Potential
Since this programme is about stepping into leadership roles, think of examples from your past experiences where you've led a team or project. Be ready to share how you motivated others and drove improvements, even if it was in a university group project or a part-time job.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions that demonstrate your interest in the programme and the company. Ask about the specific challenges Thames Water faces in waste management or how they support graduates in their career development. This shows you're not just interested in any job, but specifically in what they offer.
✨Be Yourself and Stay Adaptable
Thames Water values self-motivated and adaptable candidates. During the interview, let your personality shine through and be honest about your experiences. Share how you've adapted to new environments or challenges, as this will resonate with their need for flexibility in the role.
