This week we’re catching up with Nathan Green, one of our Graduate Geotechnical and Environmental Consultants, to find out what life at Subadra looks like in the early stages of a career in ground and environmental consultancy.
What inspired you to pursue a career in environmental and geotechnical consulting?
I was inspired to pursue environmental and geotechnical consulting by a passion for how the natural and built environments interact. I enjoy solving complex ground and environmental challenges and contributing to safe, sustainable projects that make a positive impact.
What is your educational and career background?
After completing my A Levels, I undertook a four-year degree in Physical Geography, including a year of study abroad at the University of Western Australia in Perth. Following my graduation in July 2024, I joined Subadra in September 2024, beginning my professional career in a geotechnical and environmental setting.
What is your current role and what does a typical day look like?
As a Graduate Geotechnical Environmental Consultant, no two days are the same. My work takes me across the country, where I supervise environmental and ground investigations, undertake water and gas monitoring, support remediation activities, and contribute to the preparation of Phase 1 and Phase 2 reports.
What is your favourite part of your job?
My favourite part of my job is that no two days are the same.
How does your work contribute to sustainability and the wider environment?
My work supports sustainability by assessing ground conditions, managing environmental risks, and helping ensure land is used safely and responsibly. Through investigation and remediation, I contribute to cleaner sites and more sustainable project development.
What are the biggest challenges you face in your role?
One of the biggest challenges is that every site is different, which means adapting quickly to new ground conditions and unexpected findings. Balancing time on site with reporting deadlines can also be demanding.
What skills or qualities are most important for someone in this line of work?
Key qualities include strong analytical and problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to interpret complex ground and environmental data. Effective communication, adaptability, and a practical mindset are also essential, especially when working on varied sites and collaborating with clients, contractors, and multidisciplinary teams.
What advice would you give to someone considering a career in environmental or geotechnical consulting?
Stay curious and build as much hands-on experience as you can, as the work combines both technical skills and practical fieldwork. Strong communication and adaptability are essential, since every project is different. Embrace new challenges and be open to learning, as this is a field where you grow quickly by doing.
And finally, what does a perfect day at work look like for you?
A perfect day on site for me would be taking the lead and supervising a geo-environmental ground investigation.
We’re proud to have Nathan on the team and look forward to seeing his career develop.
