Early Careers
SLR has been advising clients for over 30 years across every stage of the project life-cycle. Founded in the UK, we’ve grown into a global company with 4,500+ people delivering solutions across six regions.
As a leader in environmental and sustainability solutions, we empower our people to tackle global challenges from day one. Wherever you join us, your work will make a real impact.
Our 'One Team' culture fosters collaboration across disciplines and borders, giving you exposure to diverse projects and perspectives. With a flat structure, your voice is heard, your ideas matter, and your growth is supported. Mentorship and development programmes help you grow professionally and personally.
We believe sustainability starts with us. That’s why we’ve built an inclusive, flexible, and values-driven workplace where equity and innovation thrive. At SLR, you’re not just building a career, you’re shaping a better future.
If you’re purpose-driven, curious, and ready to make a difference, your journey starts here.
Launch your career with SLR
At SLR, investing in people is key to building a sustainable, high-performing business. That’s why we’re committed to helping you grow from the very start of your career. Whether you’re a graduate, apprentice, intern, or early-career professional, you’ll have access to meaningful opportunities to develop your skills, take on new challenges, and shape your future.
We support career progression through structured development pathways, mentorship, and real-world project experience. At SLR, when people develop, so does the business.
*In the US and Canada, early-career opportunities are typically offered through partnerships with academic institutions, so for applicants in those regions, we encourage you to reach out to your university or college careers service to learn more.
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Career growth
We’re committed to helping you grow your career with purpose and clarity. Our Graduate Development Programme - supported by the Graduate Passport - provides a structured and personalised path to help you build technical expertise and professional confidence. Our Career Framework outlines clear progression routes, while our Global People Calendar ensures regular check-ins through twice-yearly reviews and promotion rounds. Combined with our annual salary review, these tools ensure your development is recognised, supported, and rewarded.
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Mentorship
Through our Global Mentorship programme we are able to harness the power and expertise of colleagues from across our entire organisation. Everyone has the opportunity to partner with a mentor to support with long-term professional goals.
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'One Team' culture
No matter what stage you're at in your SLR career, we encourage everyone to respectfully challenge the norm and take chances to put forth alternate approaches and solutions.
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Networks
Employee networks are voluntary employee-led groups, focused on areas of diversity and inclusion, such as gender, LGBTQ+, ethnicity, mental wellness, disability, or early careers. They provide a safe space for colleagues to connect and help to provide a collective voice and source of expertise to identify and remove barriers which employees may face.
What opportunities are available?
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Apprenticeships
An apprenticeship at SLR is a paid role that combines practical industry experience with formal training, leading to a recognised qualification, up to degree level. You’ll typically spend 20% of your time on study, either weekly or in blocks, through in-person or virtual learning, alongside activities like mentoring and shadowing. Apprenticeships last from 12 months to five years, depending on the level, and conclude with an End-point Assessment. Far from being an easier route, apprenticeships require strong organisation and commitment, but they offer the advantage of earning a salary, gaining valuable experience, and graduating without student debt.
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Internships
An internship at SLR is a paid, temporary role designed to complement your university studies with real-world experience. Typically lasting 8–12 weeks over the summer or up to a year for industrial placements, internships offer hands-on learning, professional development, and the chance to build your network. You’ll be supported throughout, with regular check-ins to ensure you’re gaining valuable experience. While internships don’t guarantee a graduate role, many lead to permanent opportunities after graduation.
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Graduate jobs
Joining SLR as a graduate means stepping into a permanent role where your contributions matter from day one. You’ll be supported through a structured 12-month development programme designed to build both your technical expertise and soft skills. Delivered through a blend of virtual and in-person sessions, the programme offers opportunities to learn, grow, and connect with peers across the business.
You’ll also be encouraged to work towards membership with your relevant professional body, helping you take meaningful steps in your career journey. By the end of the programme, you’ll be equipped to demonstrate your competency and readiness for promotion.
Hear from colleagues early in their SLR careers
Curious about what it’s really like to start your career at SLR? Hear directly from colleagues who’ve joined us recently. Sharing their experiences, insights, and the impact they’re already making.
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"It’s important to remember that no one expects you to know everything from day one. Asking questions early on not only helps you learn faster but also reduces the likelihood of making avoidable mistakes. At SLR, there’s a strong culture of support, colleagues are always willing to help, and every question is a step toward building your confidence and expertise."
Katja Watson
Project Heritage Consultant
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“Being part of SLR has been a great introduction to the professional world. My time in the Mine Waste Engineering team has been an incredibly rewarding learning experience. I have gained valuable knowledge in tailings dam design, monitoring, and compliance while contributing to sustainable solutions that prioritise environmental and social responsibility.
I am also proud to be part of a company that invests in the next generation of leaders through its Graduate Programme, providing the skills and support needed to succeed. Being surrounded by a team that champions both technical excellence and personal growth has been truly motivating.”
Saseka Mathebula
Civil Engineer
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“From the very beginning, I was introduced to a wide range of service lines, support networks, and the organisation’s culture, while also connecting with fellow graduates on similar journeys. This created an immediate sense of belonging and opened my eyes to the many possibilities within SLR.
What stood out most to me was how approachable everyone is, from line managers to service line directors. I have always felt comfortable asking questions, seeking guidance, and sharing ideas, knowing that I would be met with support and encouragement. This open and welcoming culture has made the transition into my professional career not only smooth, but genuinely enjoyable.”
Harm Schaap
Project Consultant - Geotechnical Engineering
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"SLR provides graduates with valuable opportunities to broaden their professional skillsets by encouraging participation in training sessions, workshops, and industry conferences. The company’s strong One Team culture also fosters cross-disciplinary learning, allowing graduates to gain insights and knowledge from colleagues across a wide range of technical backgrounds."
Michelle Sherry
Graduate Hydrogeologist
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"SLR has offered me a wide range of professional development opportunities that have significantly enhanced my capabilities as an environmental consultant. I’ve completed specialised training in winter mountain navigation, off-road driving, and protected mammal surveying.
In addition, I’ve participated in SLR’s Graduate Development Programme, which provided valuable insights into the diverse roles across the company and allowed me to connect with fellow graduates from various disciplines."
Lewis Lamond
Project Ornithologist
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“The most valuable thing the Early Careers programme offered me was training on how to be a Consultant, and an SLR Consultant at that. I have studied and have a good foundational knowledge of my technical discipline, but providing value to our clients is something they don’t teach you at school. I think back, particularly on Tegan Smith's examples of client communication and engagement that she shared with us, whenever I pick up the phone or respond to an email, and feel more confident that I understand our clients needs and can provide them with the information and service they require.”
Harrison Burns
Project Consultant - Planning
Benefits & perks
We know our people thrive when they’re supported both professionally and personally. That’s why we offer a comprehensive range of benefits - tailored to each of our regions - including healthcare and pension plans, global and regional mobility opportunities, professional memberships, service recognition awards, travel insurance, and employee assistance programmes. Your local team will be happy to share the specific benefits available in your region.
Culture & Inclusion
We’re proud to be an equal-opportunities employer, going beyond compliance to create an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive. Our Regional C&I Committees, Global Council, and Employee Networks help drive this commitment.
We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, especially those under-represented at SLR - including 2SLGBTQI+ individuals, Indigenous peoples, ethnic minorities, women, and people with visible or invisible disabilities, including neurodivergent individuals.
If you need adjustments during the recruitment process, just let us know. As a Disability Confident Committed employer, we’re here to ensure equitable support for all applicants.
CV hints and tips
Crafting a strong CV is your first step toward landing the role you want. This section offers practical, straightforward advice to help you present your experience, skills, and potential in the best possible light
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Name and contact details
Ensure your contact information is accurate and up to date - missing a digit in your phone number could cost you an interview. There’s no need to include your date of birth, gender, marital status, or a photograph.
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Personal statement
Include a concise, tailored paragraph (2–3 lines) that gives the reviewer a snapshot of who you are and what you're seeking. Focus on aligning your goals with the role you're applying for.
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Education
List your university, degree, and years of study. Highlight key modules, especially those where you achieved strong results and that are relevant to the role or required skills. Include your final year school grades to show your academic progression. For earlier education, a brief summary of the number and level of qualifications is sufficient.
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Skills
Align your skills with the job description, using similar language and terminology. Where possible, support each skill with examples and outcomes. If indicating proficiency levels, use recognised benchmarks rather than star ratings, which lack context.
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Work experience
Focus on relevant placements or roles, summarised with clear, concise bullet points. For less directly relevant experience, highlight transferable skills without going into excessive detail.
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Volunteering and extracurricular activities
Especially valuable at early career stages, these experiences offer insight into your personality and can demonstrate additional skills such as teamwork, leadership, or initiative.
Ready to take the next step?
Whether you're just starting out or looking to grow your impact, SLR offers the support, opportunities, and community to help you thrive. Explore our current openings and start your journey with us today.
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