Profile – Sarah Needham

We may take it for granted, but clean water is one of the most precious commodities that we have. Nobody knows this more that Wastewater scientist Sarah Needham. We spoke to her to find out more.

College/University: University of Leeds
Course: Earth Science (MSc)
Age: 26

Where do you work?

I work for United Utilities, which is North West water. We make water from reservoirs palatable so you can drink it. We also take away sewage and make it safe.

How did you get in?

I got a Masters from The University of Leeds in Earth Science. After I did that, I thought I wanted to be a lecturer, so I did a PhD and was offered a job as a researcher at the university but by then I had decided that I wanted to do something a bit more ‘real’. I wanted to do something where you could see results.

Would you describe yourself as an environmentalist?

Yes, definitely. I wouldn’t before I started this job, but I would now which is interesting. My lifestyle has changed lots since I started this job. I’m now very conscious of water conservation and of what I put down the sink. On a grander scale, I’m trying to convert my family and my friends and started to tell people off for doing things wrong.

Do you think this new interest that you – and lots more people – have shown in the environment is going to continue?

It’s definitely going to continue. Working for this company has really opened my eyes. Right now we’re working on a project to use the energy in sewage to make electricity so that we can generate our own and not have to buy it in.

Considering all this, do you think that the number of jobs in the environmental sector will continue to grow?

Definitely. The green movement now is huge. When we as a company try to recruit new young people it’s always on their agenda whereas 5 years ago that wasn’t the case. I’m sure it’s going to grow.

In terms of your job, is practical experience or academic experience more important?

To do my job, you could only come in an academic route as I work in research and development. Having said that, there are lots of people who work here in very technical jobs who came in and have started as an apprentice or with A-levels and have been trained up.

How would you recommend someone starts as a professional environmentalist?

Get involved at whatever level you want, even if it’s volunteering. Taking greener subjects, like geography and chemistry which the industry looks upon very well. The industry also loves any sort of engineering route.

Are there any aspects of your job that you don’t enjoy as much?

There are those aspects to every job. For me it’s sitting down at a computer and having to do things like sitting down at my computer and doing spreadsheets and going through emails, but it’s the same in every job, it’s not particular to mine.

Where would you like to be (professionally) in 10 years time?

I’d like to continue working in the industry, and this company is so big that I can move to another role if I want to. So, in 10 years time I expect to still be at the company still working for the environment. Whether that’s in research and development or not, I don’t know.

Outside of work, what do you enjoy doing?

I like the outdoors, so I love hiking, horse riding and keeping fit. I also love going out with my mates and socialising.

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