Aquatic Ecologist

Mattinson Partnership; West of England; Hybrid; GBP 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A respected environmental consultancy in the UK is seeking a Senior Aquatic Ecologist to join their Aquatic Ecology team. This role involves undertaking aquatic field surveys, managing ecological assessments, and mentoring junior staff. Candidates should have a degree in freshwater or marine biology, and strong knowledge of UK aquatic legislation. This position offers a generous salary and benefits, and allows for flexible working hours nationwide.

Benefits

Generous base salary

Flexible working hours

Career development opportunities

Qualifications

• Experience in aquatic survey design and delivery.
• Working knowledge of EIA, HRA and WFD assessments.
• Membership of CIEEM or an equivalent professional body.

Responsibilities

• Undertake aquatic field surveys in freshwater and/or marine environments.
• Manage aquatic ecological assessments, including PEAs and EIAs.
• Provide aquatic ecology inputs across all project stages.

Skills

Professional experience in a similar aquatic ecology role

Strong knowledge of UK and European aquatic legislation

Excellent report writing and communication skills

Education

Degree (BSc or MSc) in freshwater biology, marine biology or a related discipline

Job description

Our client has one of the most respected biodiversity, EIA and planning practices in the UK, with a well-established aquatic ecology team delivering high-quality ecological services on complex projects across a wide range of sectors with the built and natural environment.

The Opportunity

Our client is seeking a Senior Aquatic Ecologist to join their growing Aquatic Ecology team. The role is ideally suited to a freshwater ecologist, although experience in marine ecology would be advantageous. You will provide specialist aquatic ecology inputs to a diverse portfolio of projects and support the continued growth of the team through technical excellence and collaboration.

With access to an extensive UK and international project portfolio, the role also offers opportunities to work on innovative overseas projects alongside international colleagues. The team is recognised for operating at the leading edge of professional practice, with a strong reputation for innovation and technical quality.

The role is open to candidates nationwide. Flexible and reduced working hours will be considered.

Key Responsibilities

• Undertake aquatic field surveys in freshwater and/or marine environments
• Lead at least one survey type (ideally fish surveys) and support a wider range of freshwater surveys (macroinvertebrates, macrophytes, diatoms, water quality)
• Manage and contribute to aquatic ecological assessments, including PEAs, EIAs, HRAs, WFD Assessments and marine assessments
• Provide aquatic ecology inputs across all project stages, from bidding and feasibility through to assessment and detailed design
• Support licence applications, including marine licences and flood risk activity permits
• Mentor and support junior team members

About You

• Professional experience in a similar aquatic ecology role
• Degree (BSc or MSc) in freshwater biology, marine biology or a related discipline
• Strong knowledge of UK and European aquatic legislation, including the HRA process
• Experience in aquatic survey design and delivery
• Excellent report writing and communication skills
• Working knowledge of EIA, HRA and WFD assessments
• Membership of CIEEM or an equivalent professional body

This is an excellent opportunity to join a people-focused consultancy delivering impactful aquatic ecology work.

The post includes a generous base and benefits with excellent career opportunities.

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