Kawter Houbad - Graduate Sustainability Engineer, London
What attracted you to Cundall?
What initially attracted me to Cundall was their genuine and proactive approach to sustainability, not just in theory, but in practice. I was particularly inspired by their involvement in shaping sustainability legislation such as RICS V2, NZCB Standards, and their commitment to creating tangible, positive impact on projects through innovative, sustainable solutions.
What have you been working on since joining Cundall?
I’ve been helping building Cundall’s new digital platform aimed at supporting the Net Zero Carbon 2030 goal, integrating zero carbon thinking into project delivery across the business. This involves working with data, digital tools, and a range of stakeholders to make sustainability performance clearer and more actionable. I’ve also supported the ESG workstream through targets data analysis, carbon accounting, and the development of Net Zero pathway roadmaps for clients in the UK and internationally. In parallel, I’ve contributed to energy modelling across various building types using IES, Rhino, and worked with manufacturers on healthy materials, particularly in relation to WELL and BREEAM certifications.
What do you like about working at Cundall?
What I appreciate most about working at Cundall is the strong sense of purpose shared across the team. There’s a clear commitment to driving real change in the built environment, backed by engineering, collaboration, excellence, and a culture of innovation.
What advice would you give to any Graduates applying to Cundall?
If you're curious about how buildings and sustainability come together in the real world, Cundall is a great place to explore that. You don’t need to know everything from day one, just be open to learning, ask questions, and get involved. There’s a lot of support, and plenty of chances to grow if you show interest and enthusiasm.
Hannah Galvin - Graduate Planning Consultant, Newcastle
What attracted you to Cundall?
One of Cundall's Planning Consultants who started working here as a graduate came and gave a talk at my university in early 2020 about the work that Cundall do in Planning and the benefits of working in a multi-disciplinary consultancy. I loved the idea of working with colleagues from a range of disciplines to find solutions for clients, so when I was coming to the end of university at the end of 2023 and the job was advertised, I jumped at the possibility. One of the most amazing parts was the person who gave the lecture ended up being my colleague, and I was able to let him know just how much of impression that talk had had on me.
What have you been working on since joining Cundall?
I've been lucky enough to work on such a range of projects. Renewable energy, data centres, residential schemes and more, and working on such a range of deliverables for clients, including Planning Statements, Health Impact Assessments, Site Due Diligence, Environmental Impact Assessment and more. I've been able to draw on my previous experience whilst learning new skills at the same time, which is amazing. Plus no day is ever the same.
What do you like about working at Cundall?
Although the range of projects I get to work on is a major benefit, I would have to say the people are my favourite part about working here. Although I'm quite new to both my team and in my career, my ideas are listened to and valued and colleagues across the company are really easy to talk to - even the Partners! It's also such a social place to work, with lots of opportunities to get to know colleagues on a social level through company events.
What advice would you give to any Graduates applying to Cundall?
When preparing your application and for an interview, make sure you identify what makes you stand out. What do you have to offer that other candidates might not have? For me, it was previous work experience in a niche area that aligned with Cundall's work and sets us apart from our planning competitors. And don't forget to be yourself - a solid work-life balance is really valued here, so if you have interests you can talk about to show you're well rounded, talk about them.
Jun-Keat Wong - Graduate Electrical Engineer, Manchester
What attracted you to Cundall?
I was drawn to Cundall because of its strong reputation for sustainable design and engineering innovation within the built environment sector, which prioritises both people and the planet. I was also impressed by Cundall's collaborative culture, multidisciplinary teams, and global presence, offering opportunities to work on diverse and impactful projects.
What have you been working on since joining Cundall?
Since joining Cundall, I've had the opportunity to work on a range of projects — from office blocks and commercial developments to educational buildings, residential schemes, and even a heritage site! My main focus has been developing my modelling skills in Revit and CAD, but I’ve also been involved in client meetings, design workshops, and wider sustainability initiatives with the Building Services team. This has helped me grow my technical skill set and deepen my understanding of how a project is delivered in a consultancy setting.
What do you like about working at Cundall?
Through the graduate programme, there’s definitely a supportive and inclusive environment, with a strong emphasis on learning and development. Colleagues at all levels are approachable and always happy to help with any questions I’ve had, allowing me to learn from many sources. Outside of work, there are socials and networking opportunities, which have been great for meeting other people around my age who work in similar roles. You may even end up reconnecting with older school friends like I did!
What advice would you give to any graduates applying to Cundall?
My main advice would be to demonstrate a willingness to learn and not to worry if you don’t have all the answers right away. Be open about what you're looking to develop, and don’t be afraid to ask questions during the recruitment process. Additionally, teamwork is key in a multidisciplinary company, so show that you can collaborate effectively without stepping on others’ toes.
Rindai Machokoto - Graduate Electrical Engineer, Birmingham
What attracted you to Cundall?
I was drawn to Cundall because of their strong commitment to sustainability and innovative engineering solutions. Their Net Zero Carbon Design initiative really stood out, as it aligns with my passion for creating sustainable buildings. The opportunity to work on diverse projects across global offices, combined with their reputation for nurturing talent through structured grad scheme program made Cundall an exciting choice.
What have you been working on since joining Cundall?
I have been working on various projects mainly within the school sector. I have also helped with some office refurbishments during my time here. For example I have done lighting calculations using Dialux Evo, Cable and distribution board calculations using Electrical OM. Although, most of my time has been spent creating strategy drawings for clients using Revit software. These projects have allowed me to collaborate with different teams.
What do you like about working at Cundall?
Working at Cundall is rewarding because of the collaborative and friendly atmosphere. The team is knowledgeable, with opportunities to learn from people across different teams. I enjoy the variety of projects, which keep the work engaging and allow me to apply my electrical engineering skills in creative ways.
What advice would you give to any graduates applying to Cundall?
I would suggest do your research on Cundall’s goals, especially their sustainability goals, and align your application to show how your interests match. Be prepared for a recruitment process that includes online tests and an assessment centre. During the interview, relax and highlight your teamwork and technical skills. It is pretty useful to have examples like university projects to show your ability. Lastly show enthusiasm and a desire to learn.
Phoebe Hiller - Graduate Mechanical Engineer, London
What attracted you to Cundall?
Cundall's large focus on sustainability excited me, along with the aspect of being involved with a variety of projects, and being able to work with Architects, Engineers, clients and contractors.
What have you been working on since joining Cundall?
I've been able to work on multiple buildings within central London as well as Kew Gardens renovations. It's very rewarding walking around and seeing buildings that I've had a part in designing.
What do you like about working at Cundall?
I enjoy being able to design and problem solve every day within my role, using both technical and personable skills, having my designs being constructed and seeing them around London is amazing. The office environment is also great, it is very sociable and there's lots to get involved in, as well as the opportunity to move to our offices in other countries!
What advice would you give to any Graduates applying to Cundall?
Be yourself, highlight your passion about working within the industry, how you align with our goals and our focus on sustainable solutions. Good luck!
Minaal Baba Ahmed - Graduate Electrical Engineer, London
What attracted you to Cundall?
What attracted me to Cundall was the focus on sustainability, and the fact that everyone I had met prior to joining seemed to genuinely enjoy their work and the company culture.
What have you been working on since joining Cundall?
I have worked on quite a few projects so far from schools to office fit out and data centre projects.
What do you like about working at Cundall?
I really like the people that work at Cundall to be honest, and I feel like I am being supported as a young engineer.
What advice would you give to any Graduates applying to Cundall?
I would advise graduates applying to Cundall to read up on some ongoing projects and understand what kind of work they would be doing, as well as how Cundall operates.