32471 - Environmental Monitoring Freshwater Ecology Assistant

Environment Agency; Tonbridge and Malling; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A government environmental agency in the United Kingdom is seeking a fresh ecology assistant to join their Analysis & Reporting team. This role involves laboratory analysis of aquatic invertebrates, seasonal field surveys across Kent and South London, and interpretation of data for clients. The ideal candidate should possess a relevant degree and have an interest in environmental monitoring. You will also need a full driving license and the ability to swim. This position offers a chance to contribute to critical environmental work and promote a diverse and inclusive workplace.

Qualifications

• An enquiring mind with enthusiasm for collection and use of environmental data.
• Good eye for detail whilst enjoying the process of data management and interpretation.
• Understanding of what environmental monitoring is and current challenges.

Responsibilities

• Carrying out laboratory analysis of aquatic invertebrate samples.
• Assisting with seasonal ecological surveys in rivers, lakes, and streams.
• Interpreting field and laboratory data for customer reports.

Skills

Attention to detail

Data management and interpretation

Understanding of environmental monitoring

Fieldwork and lab work experience or interest

Team collaboration

Innovative thinking

Education

Relevant degree (e.g. biology; environmental science)

Job description

We have an exciting new opportunity for a freshwater ecology assistant to join our Analysis & Reporting team and develop your career in environmental monitoring, data analysis and interpretation.

We are the Environment Agency. We work with government, local councils, water companies, businesses, and communities to make our environment cleaner, safer, and healthier for people and wildlife.

Our team investigates how water quality and water quantity, as well as habitat and anthropogenic factors, are impacting on aquatic ecological communities and communicate this information to a range of audiences.

Your role will focus on carrying out laboratory analysis of aquatic invertebrate samples including invertebrates to species level, as well as the provision of data to our customers.

In addition, you will also assist with:

• Seasonal field-based ecological, water quality, habitat and/or fisheries survey fieldwork in rivers, lakes & streams across the whole of Kent & South London area
• Interpretation of field and laboratory data to report findings to our customers using both standard and bespoke computer applications.
• Supporting investigations into impacts of environmental pollution incidents

Responding to incidents is a central part of what we do. Everyone that joins us is required to undertake training and participate. Please see the candidate pack for more on how you will support with this.

In KSLES we value a diverse workforce and are fully committed to being an inclusive employer. We welcome applications from all sections of the community and aim to create a diverse workplace where people feel respected, valued and listened to. We’re all different, and by embracing Equality, Diversity & Inclusion (EDI) we can become an equal opportunity employer where jointly we all grow and learn together.

The candidate pack, additional information document and generic role profile should be read along with the advert.

The team

Our Analysis and Reporting team, within Local Operations, collect, analyse and interpret freshwater environmental data to inform a range of legislative, national and local requirements.

We are skilled in monitoring fieldwork and lab work and use our expertise to assess a wide variety of ecology, water quality, fisheries & habitat data from a range of sources. Our customers rely on the evidence we provide to support the delivery of local and national environmental improvements.

Experience/skills required

You’ll need:

• An enquiring mind with enthusiasm for collection and use of environmental data
• Good eye for detail whilst enjoying the process of data management and interpretation
• Understanding of what environmental monitoring is and why it matters, as well as an appreciation of current environmental challenges and topics
• Experience or interest in environmental monitoring fieldwork and lab work
• Openness to innovative ways of working, especially new opportunities to work with nature
• Ability to work effectively on your own and within a team
• Relevant degree (e.g. biology; environmental science), or other equivalent experience
• A full driving licence and be able to swim

We’d love to inspire you to apply so get in touch!