Katja Watson

Biography

What is your name and role at SLR?

My name is Katja Watson, and I’m a Project Heritage Consultant at SLR.

Can you describe your role at SLR?

As an Archaeology and Cultural Heritage Consultant at SLR, I contribute to a wide range of projects, with a focus on preparing Environmental Impact Assessment chapters for large-scale renewable energy developments, such as wind farms. I also produce historic environment desk-based assessments for smaller-scale projects. My responsibilities include assessing potential impacts on archaeological assets, conducting site walkovers to identify previously unrecorded features, and engaging with clients and regulatory bodies to advise on heritage risks and mitigation strategies.

What does a typical day look like for a Heritage Consultant at SLR?

My role as a Heritage Consultant at SLR is incredibly varied, which is one of the aspects I enjoy most. On any given day, I might be surveying mountainous terrain in the Scottish Highlands, writing technical reports for proposed housing developments in southern England, or even supporting international projects, such as assisting the Process Engineering team as a translator at an anaerobic digestion plant in the Netherlands. The diversity of work keeps each day engaging and offers continuous opportunities to learn and collaborate across disciplines.

What do you like most about working at SLR?

One of the standout aspects of working at SLR is the strong One Team culture. It’s incredibly reassuring to know that, regardless of grade or discipline, there’s always someone willing to offer support or share their expertise. In addition to the encouragement I receive from my own fantastic team, I’ve had the opportunity to collaborate with colleagues from a wide range of backgrounds and specialisms. The Graduate Development Days were also a highlight, an excellent chance to connect with peers from across different regions and disciplines that I might not otherwise work with directly.

What advice would you give to someone starting their career at SLR?

Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Transitioning from education into the workplace can feel overwhelming, especially when you're navigating new processes and unfamiliar terminology. But 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.