Interested in a career where you can protect the environment and shape the future of water?
Curious about how rivers flow, how flooding happens, or what’s going on beneath the ground we walk on?
Ready to earn a salary, gain real experience and get a fully funded degree at the same time?
If so, read on…
A degree apprenticeship means you’ll work full-time, earn while you learn, and get your university degree paid for – with no student debt.
Whether your interest is in rivers, flooding and surface water (hydrology) or how water moves underground through rocks (hydrogeology), this is a unique opportunity to start a career that makes a real difference.
We’re excited to be recruiting for two Apprentice roles within our Technical Services team:
Environmental Scientist Apprentice (Hydrology pathway)
Geoscientist Apprentice (Hydrogeology pathway)
Both roles offer the opportunity to complete a Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship with Keele University, combining academic study with meaningful, real-world experience from day one.
Why join us?
This is more than just an apprenticeship – it’s your chance to build a career, gain specialist skills and help protect the environment.
Across both roles, you will:
- Gain hands-on experience supporting the monitoring and management of water systems (rivers, groundwater and environmental data)
- Work alongside experienced professionals on live environmental and remediation projects
- Take part in fieldwork, such as visiting sites, collecting water samples or checking monitoring equipment
- Develop practical skills in data analysis and technical reporting
- Progress over time from supporting tasks to taking ownership of your own work and projects
No two days are the same – you could be out on site one day and analysing data or working on a project the next.
What you’ll get
- A fully funded Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship (no tuition fees)
- A salary from day one
- A recognised BSc degree in Environmental Science or Geoscience
- Support from both experienced colleagues and Keele University throughout your journey
- A mix of on-the-job learning, off-the-job training and university study (including fieldwork and block release)
- A clear pathway into a long-term career in hydrology or hydrogeology
What we’re looking for
You don’t need to be an expert, we’re looking for people who are curious, motivated and ready to learn.
You’ll typically have:
- An interest in the environment, water, science or geography
- A genuine curiosity about how water behaves in the natural world
- Good attention to detail and an interest in data, problem-solving and analysis
- The ability to work well in a team and communicate clearly
- A proactive attitude and willingness to learn both on the job and through study
Entry requirements (Keele University)
Requirements differ slightly depending on the pathway:
- Environmental Practitioner Degree (Hydrology): typically BBC A-levels (or equivalent)
- Geoscientist Degree (Hydrogeology): typically BBB A-levels (or equivalent)
Further details are available in the job description.
We know some applicants may not yet have their final results at the point of application, please don’t let that stop you from applying. If you’re on track to meet the requirements, we’d encourage you to apply.
Additional information
- These are 5-year apprenticeships, combining work and study
- Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an assessment centre on Monday 27th July at the Mining Remediation Authority
- Final offers will be subject to approval by Keele University
- You’ll need to be willing to travel and take part in fieldwork as part of the role
Ready to get started?
If you’re looking for a career where you can earn, learn and make a real impact on the environment, this could be the perfect opportunity. When applying, be sure to tell us which role you’re most interested in.
To find out more about the role, take a look at the job descriptions.
Role location: Hybrid working (on average 2 days working out of our Mansfield office)
Schedule:
Application closing date: 19th July 2026
Sifting date: 20th July 2026
Interviews: 27th July 2026
Security:
Successful candidates must pass basic security checks and will be subject to UK Immigration requirements.
Why join us?
Make a real difference with flexibility, long‑term security and support for life outside work.
At the Mining Remediation Authority, you’ll do meaningful work that improves people’s lives and protects the environment, while building a sustainable and balanced career.
- Flexibility that fits your life – hybrid working and flexibility in how you manage your time
- Financial security for your future – including a pension with up to 29% employer contribution
- Time to recharge – 27.5 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays, with options to flex more days
- Support through life’s big moments – generous family leave and flexibility when you need it most
- Opportunities to grow – funded learning, development and professional subscriptions
- Wellbeing support you can use every day – including a monthly wellbeing allowance, confidential support and practical health benefits
Find out more about our full range of benefits and what it’s like to work with us here Life page
About us
At the Mining Remediation Authority, we make a real difference to people and places across Great Britain. From managing mining hazards to protecting the environment, our work keeps communities safe. We’re also playing an exciting role in the future of energy, helping to unlock mine water heat as a sustainable source to support the UK’s net zero ambitions. Our people are knowledgeable, collaborative and committed to doing the right thing for each other and for the communities we serve.
Why this matters
You’ll be joining an organisation that’s proud of the impact we make. We’re supportive, inclusive and genuinely care about delivering the right outcomes for communities across England, Scotland and Wales. Discover more about our work in our Business Plan
Inclusion matters to us
We’re committed to building a workforce that reflects the diversity of the communities we serve, and we welcome applications from everyone.
We offer a guaranteed interview scheme for disabled applicants and those from minority ethnic backgrounds who meet the minimum criteria.
If you need any adjustments as part of the recruitment process, please contact us at [email protected] or call 01623 637000 we’re here to support you.
