Application Guide
How to Apply for Early Career Consultant - Emissions and Climate
at Environmental Resources Management
🏢 About Environmental Resources Management
Environmental Resources Management (ERM) is a global leader in sustainability consulting, uniquely positioned to help clients navigate the transition to a low-carbon economy. With a strong presence in Australia and a focus on climate strategy and emissions accounting, ERM offers early career consultants the chance to work on high-impact projects that shape corporate and policy responses to climate change. The company's collaborative culture and commitment to advancing ESG priorities make it an ideal place for those passionate about driving real environmental change.
About This Role
As an Early Career Consultant in Emissions and Climate, you will support Australian and global clients in developing climate strategies, conducting emissions accounting, and preparing for mandatory climate disclosures. Your work will directly help organizations reduce their greenhouse gas emissions, manage climate risks, and transition towards a circular economy. This role offers hands-on experience with cutting-edge climate analytics and the opportunity to influence corporate sustainability practices at scale.
💡 A Day in the Life
A typical day might involve analyzing client emissions data in Excel to prepare a carbon footprint report, then joining a team meeting to discuss climate risk scenarios for a mining client. You could also research new Australian climate regulations to update internal knowledge resources, and draft slides for a client presentation on emissions reduction strategies. The role balances technical analysis with client-facing communication, offering variety and direct impact.
🚀 Application Tools
🎯 Who Environmental Resources Management Is Looking For
- A recent graduate with a degree in science, economics, finance, public policy, law, or engineering, with a strong interest in climate change and sustainability.
- Demonstrated knowledge of Australian climate policy and regulations, such as the Safeguard Mechanism, Climate Active, or mandatory climate reporting requirements.
- Proficient in Microsoft Excel for data analysis and modeling, with the ability to present findings clearly in PowerPoint and Word.
- Excellent analytical and communication skills, capable of interpreting complex data and explaining climate concepts to non-technical stakeholders.
📝 Tips for Applying to Environmental Resources Management
Tailor your resume to highlight any coursework, internships, or projects related to carbon accounting, climate risk, or Australian environmental policy.
In your cover letter, explicitly mention your understanding of key Australian climate policies (e.g., Climate Change Act, NGER, TCFD) and how they relate to ERM's work.
Showcase your analytical skills by including examples of data-driven projects, such as a life cycle assessment or emissions reduction analysis.
Research ERM's recent projects in Australia, such as their work with major energy or mining companies, and reference them in your application to demonstrate genuine interest.
If you have any experience with sustainability reporting frameworks (e.g., GRI, SASB, ISSB), emphasize this as it aligns with the role's focus on mandatory disclosures.
✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter
['Highlight your passion for climate action and your understanding of the Australian regulatory landscape, including mandatory climate disclosure requirements.', 'Emphasize your analytical abilities, particularly in handling emissions data and using Excel for modeling and reporting.', 'Connect your educational background to the role, explaining how your degree (e.g., in science or policy) equips you to tackle climate challenges.', 'Express your desire to work at ERM specifically, referencing their reputation as a leader in sustainability consulting and their commitment to net-zero goals.']
Generate Cover Letter →🔍 Research Before Applying
To stand out, make sure you've researched:
- → Review ERM's 'Climate and Carbon' service offerings on their website, paying attention to case studies and recent news about their Australian projects.
- → Familiarize yourself with Australia's latest climate policy developments, such as the Climate Change Act 2022, the Net Zero Plan, and the proposed mandatory climate reporting standards.
- → Look into ERM's thought leadership pieces, such as their reports on 'The Low Carbon Economy' or 'ESG Trends in Australia,' to understand their perspective.
- → Check the profiles of current ERM consultants in Australia on LinkedIn to understand their backgrounds and the types of projects they work on.
💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics
Based on this role, you may be asked about:
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Avoid being vague about your interest in climate: do not just say 'I care about the environment' without showing specific knowledge of Australian climate policy or carbon accounting.
- Do not overlook the importance of Excel skills: ensure you can demonstrate proficiency in data analysis, pivot tables, and modeling, as this is a core requirement.
- Do not submit a generic cover letter: tailor it to ERM and this specific role, mentioning their projects and how your skills align with the job description.
📅 Application Timeline
This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.
Typical hiring timeline:
Application Review
1-2 weeks
Initial Screening
Phone call or written assessment
Interviews
1-2 rounds, usually virtual
Offer
Congratulations!
Ready to Apply?
Good luck with your application to Environmental Resources Management!