Irene - Water System Advisor
During my studies in Coastal and Marine Management, I was already interested in how water boards work with the living environment. Last year, I was able to do an internship at Noorderzijlvest within the team that contributes ideas about the area development of the Kop van Drenthe. I think it is a beautiful area and visit it often because I have family living there. It is special to be able to contribute to your 'own' region.
‘I consider the role of water in every plan’
Stream restoration
For my graduation project, I drafted a recommendation on redesigning streams in the Kop van Drenthe region. The aim is to provide insight into the measures that the water board can take to improve the streams. I answered questions such as: 'Can the streams be made wider and shallower? And where does this fit in with the environment?' and 'Does it help to let streams meander through the landscape?' It was interesting to see how people often look back at how the streams used to look and want to use this to improve them in the future.
After my internship, I was able to stay on at the water board. I now have my first job here, as a Water System Advisor. The sea is very fascinating, but I also find water on land interesting. And there is a connection between water on land and the sea. Everything is connected. By continuing to learn about water systems, I am gaining more knowledge about water and the environment. For example, I would now like to better understand how groundwater works.
Water advice
In my job, I advise municipalities, provinces, and private individuals on zoning plans. The plans vary in size, which provides variety and makes it fascinating to see what can happen in a particular area. When advising, I ask myself whether the water aspect has been properly taken into account. For example, have the plans taken sufficient account of water drainage or retention? A paved surface drains water more quickly, but we want gradual drainage so that water is retained.
‘It’s great that I can learn on the job.’
To provide sound advice, I combine our data with knowledge and experience from the surrounding area. In this job, you need to be able to read maps and have insight so that you can make connections between construction drawings, water levels, and water level areas.
You also need the ability to collaborate with many different parties. At the administrative level and with other specialists, but also with people from the area who live and work there. With new developments and plans, the role of water is being considered at an increasingly early stage. This allows you to arrive at suitable solutions together.
Trust
I have a junior position. That means that senior colleagues supervise me. I get to learn on the job. That's very valuable; it makes me feel more confident in my work. It's also nice that I can decide for myself where and when I work and that I can, for example, take a company car out to see the situation in real life. You can only give good advice if you are in touch with the environment. I appreciate the freedom and trust I am given to develop myself at the water board.
Will you choose water work too?
We work together to achieve the right water balance. But we believe that a good work-life balance is just as important!Withus, you can combine meaningful work with job satisfaction and good employment conditions.
