Work experience
We understand that the way we run our business has the potential to affect society. That’s why we strive to make a positive contribution to the local and global communities in which we work, by promoting local skills and education through employment and placement opportunities.
As part of our corporate social responsibility, we’re especially thoughtful about encouraging and supporting the next generation of aspiring environmental professionals. Whether that’s through presenting to local schools and colleges or offering a wide range of career entry points including apprenticeships and a graduate programme.
This summer it was our pleasure to welcome work experience students from schools local to JBA offices across the UK. Allowing these students to learn new skills, experience a working environment, contribute to projects, build confidence and hopefully be inspired by possible future careers!
Here’s just some of what the students were involved in during their work experience placements with us:
Josh - A-level student
"My work experience placement has given me a great insight into how a company is run, with many lessons learnt along the way.
I was introduced to the mapping software used by JBA. We created multiple map designs and used previous maps from another flood risk assessment. This was very insightful as I was able to see how the company uses data collected on site when simulating or mapping out an area for varying flood risk attributes.
I also helped with Environment Agency asset updates, providing background information to aid in locating assets on site. I enjoyed this as I knew my work would help with future site inspections by providing the location information."
Will - GCSE student
"On my first day, I was able to go on a site visit to Port Clarence in Middlesbrough. After an initial safety briefing and dressing in the correct Personal Protective Equipment, we visited a range of flood defences in the area and investigated if there were any unintended risks to public safety. We went to numerous sites and took photos on a ruggedised iPad and added accurate, up-to-date descriptions which were then uploaded to the Environment Agency’s asset management system, AIMS.
I have learnt many valuable skills during these three days, but I was also greeted with the reality of working life, and this was a real eye-opener for me."
James - A-Level student
"I enjoyed working with the innovation team as it provided me with an overview of the business. I had the opportunity to review recent project proposals submitted to Zoe and the JBA Labs team. I wrote three project reviews, helping to assess whether funding should be awarded. These projects showcased a range of work and research at JBA Consulting, highlighting the company's goals, core values, and commitment to net zero. The feedback I received on this exercise was invaluable.
I was surprised by the range of jobs available and the various entry routes into the business, such as degree apprenticeships and graduate programs - which I will definitely consider for my future."
Thomas - A-Level student
"Ellie introduced me to a weir removal project, showing me all the different drawings/designs that went into it and various pictures of the site before and after. We then looked at the various documents that go into projects like this such as the environmental risk assessment. I tried my own version of a risk assessment and learnt lots about what should be thought about before undertaking projects. Tim showed me different CAD standards and lots of interesting designs that he was currently working on. After reading about AutoCAD and QGIS I learned a lot about how it is used within JBA projects.
I feel that I have gained some valuable experience that I know will help me in the future."
If you’d like to grow your career with JBA, visit our pages about Apprenticeship opportunities, the Graduate program and our current vacancies.
