Aquatic Ecologist

Southern Water; Brighton; Hybrid; GBP 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading water management company is seeking an Aquatic Ecologist to join the Enabling Team in Falmer. The role involves managing ecological risks, engaging with stakeholders, and contributing to sustainable water infrastructure. Ideal candidates will have a degree in Ecology, relevant memberships, and fieldwork expertise. Join us to drive ecological resilience and enhance the natural environment.

Benefits

Flexible working arrangements

Professional growth opportunities

Supportive work culture

Qualifications

• Proven experience in aquatic ecology within the water or infrastructure sector.
• Strong understanding of UK environmental legislation and permitting.

Responsibilities

• Champion health and safety best practices across all project phases.
• Lead and support aquatic ecology surveys and assessments.
• Research and apply innovative ecological solutions.
• Build strong relationships with regulators and partners.
• Prepare cost estimates and support project delivery.

Skills

Electric fishing

Macroinvertebrate sampling

Report writing

Organizational skills

Education

Degree (BSc/MSc) in Ecology

Membership of CIEEM, IFM

Tools

GIS

Job description

Job Details

Closing Date: 2025-09-26

Job Title: Aquatic Ecologist

Location: Falmer (Sussex) (with travel across a variety of sites) - hybrid working model

Salary: around £45,000 depending on experience

About the Role

Are you passionate about protecting aquatic ecosystems while enabling sustainable infrastructure development? Southern Water is seeking a skilled and driven Aquatic Ecologist to join our Enabling Team within ETS. You’ll play a pivotal role in delivering robust ecological risk management across a diverse portfolio of water, wastewater, and network projects—from design conception to construction completion.

This is a dynamic position that blends fieldwork, technical expertise, stakeholder engagement, and strategic thinking. You’ll help shape the future of ecological resilience in the region while identifying opportunities to enhance the natural environment.

Responsibilities

• Safety & Environment: Champion health and safety best practices across all project phases; develop and implement H&S strategies, including risk assessments; ensure compliance with environmental and sustainability standards
• Technical Delivery: Lead and support aquatic ecology surveys and assessments; provide ecological input into permitting, compliance, and infrastructure projects; design mitigation strategies and contribute to ecological enhancement initiatives; collaborate with engineers, project managers, and environmental advisors; manage aquatic ecology deliverables within budget and timeline
• Innovation & Continuous Improvement: Research and apply innovative ecological solutions; support Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) initiatives, including River Condition Assessments
• Stakeholder Engagement: Build strong relationships with regulators, partners, and internal teams; communicate ecological risks and solutions effectively
• Financial & Commercial: Prepare cost estimates and support TOTEX-efficient project delivery; make informed decisions balancing ecological integrity and business needs

Essential Qualifications & Experience

• Degree (BSc/MSc) in Ecology, Environmental Science, or related field
• Membership of CIEEM, IFM, or equivalent professional body
• Proven experience in aquatic ecology within the water or infrastructure sector
• Proficiency in electric fishing, macroinvertebrate sampling (TL3), or macrophyte surveys
• Strong understanding of UK environmental legislation and permitting

Desirable

• Experience with MoRPh surveys and River Condition Assessments
• Familiarity with GIS and ecological data analysis
• Knowledge of BNG principles and application

Skills & Attributes

• Excellent report writing and presentation skills
• Strong organisational and time management abilities
• Collaborative mindset with the ability to work independently
• Confident decision-maker with a proactive approach
• Full UK driving licence

Why Join Us

At Southern Water, we’re committed to protecting the environment while delivering essential services. You’ll be part of a multidisciplinary team that values innovation, sustainability, and professional growth. We offer a supportive work culture, flexible working arrangements, and opportunities for continued development.

How To Apply

Ready to make a splash in your career? Submit your CV and cover letter via our careers portal.