Technical specialist makes career leap at Frog Environmental
Natalia Pérez del Postigo is not afraid to get her boots muddy when it comes to solving real-world problems for her clients. It’s this tenacity that led her to RSK joint venture company Frog Environmental, where she has recently been promoted to senior technical specialist.
Career path to becoming a technical specialist
Describing her academic journey as a technical adventure, Natalia began with a bachelor of science degree in mining engineering before gaining a master’s in geology. She went on to study for a master of philosophy in civil engineering, in which her thesis focused on tsunami generation. Natalia also completed a PhD in marine science and engineering. This broad academic background gave her a strong foundation for tackling complex environmental challenges from multiple perspectives.
She said: “Throughout the years, my studies combining geology and hydraulics have given me a unique perspective on how water interacts with the landscape. It was this that led me naturally into the world of environmental water management.
“Frog Environmental has a reputation for being innovative and agile, which was a real draw for me, particularly as someone who enjoys learning and working on practical, sitebased solutions.”
Bridging the gap between construction and protecting the environment
Based in South Wales, Natalia supports housing and commercial developers across the region to design bespoke water treatment systems. Working closely with colleagues across the technical team, she conducts settlement tests and validates flocculant selections, helping to ensure site solutions are robust, site-specific and meet or exceed environmental regulatory standards.
Natalia said: “Construction can be incredibly disruptive to local environments. My role is to bridge the gap between high-intensity construction and environmental preservation. By managing silt effectively, we protect local biodiversity and ensure that the rivers we all enjoy remain healthy and clear.
“One of the best things about my job is that ‘lightbulb moment’ when a contractor sees a murky sample turn crystal clear in seconds during a test. What people find surprising is that I can replicate exactly what needs to happen on-site inside a small bottle. Having that visual makes it much easier to explain the process. I love taking a complex environmental problem and breaking it down into simple, straightforward and achievable steps that really work for the client.”
Staying at the forefront of technical standards through continuous professional development
Having recently achieved Chartered Environmentalist status with the Institution of Environmental Sciences (IES), as well as having been promoted, Natalia said she is motivated to continue developing professionally because staying at the forefront of technical standards is essential. She values continuous professional development not only for technical excellence but also for the confidence it gives clients and colleagues alike.
She added: “Chartership adds a significant layer of technical authority to my role, ensuring my recommendations are backed by a recognised professional standard. For the business, it reinforces our reputation as experts in the field, giving our clients and regulatory bodies confidence that the solutions we provide are ethical, sustainable and technically sound.
“Everything I’ve accomplished recently feels like validation for all the hard work I’ve put in. The team at Frog Environmental have been incredibly supportive throughout my journey, providing the mentorship and resources necessary to help me reach these milestones.”
As well as working on her own professional development, Natalia is passionate about supporting others with theirs. Since 2025, she has been delivering external training sessions to assist people with their continuous professional development. As part of Frog Environmental’s service offering, Natalia has covered topics including silt pollution prevention and silt control and water management.
Challenging stereotypes and driving best practices
Reflecting on the need to increase female representation in the industry, Natalia believes highlighting the technical and scientific depth of roles in the sector is one way to address the issue.
Natalia said: “The industry needs diverse problem solvers who can think holistically. Don’t be intimidated by the boots and hi-vis stereotype. This is a sector in which you can not only build a solid career but also see the tangible impact your work has on people and the environment.”
As she looks ahead to becoming involved in larger infrastructure projects, Natalia’s commitment to supporting housing and commercial developments across South Wales that have a monumental impact on local ecosystems remains steadfast.
It is her hope to continue working with clients to help them develop a deeper understanding of environmental risks and drive the adoption of best practice across the region.
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Frog Environmental
Frog Environmental is an award-winning water quality, silt control, bubble curtain and floating wetland specialist, working with contractors, regulators and consultants within the construction, utilities, marine, rail and highways, public and third sector industries across the UK and Europe.