Aquatic Ecologist

Mattinson Partnership; West of England; On-site; GBP 42,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Mattinson Partnership is seeking a Senior Aquatic Ecologist to join a growing Aquatic Ecology team. The role suits a freshwater ecologist, with marine experience a plus.

You will provide specialist aquatic ecology inputs to a diverse project portfolio and help grow the team through technical excellence and collaboration. With access to a broad UK and international project portfolio, opportunities to work on overseas projects with international colleagues exist.

Qualifications

• Specialist aquatic ecology inputs to diverse projects.
• Experience in freshwater and/or marine environments.
• Strong report writing and communication skills.
• Knowledge of UK/EU aquatic legislation including HRA.
• Experience with EIA, HRA and WFD assessments.
• Membership of CIEEM or equivalent body.

Responsibilities

• Undertake aquatic field surveys in freshwater and/or marine environments.
• Lead at least one survey type (ideally fish surveys) and support broader freshwater surveys.
• Manage and contribute to aquatic ecological assessments (PEAs, EIAs, HRAs, WFD).
• Provide inputs across project stages from bidding to design.
• Support licences including marine licences and flood risk permits.
• Mentor junior team members.

Skills

Aquatic ecology

Report writing

Survey design

HRA knowledge

WFD knowledge

CIEEM membership

Communication skills

Education

BSc/MSc in freshwater or marine biology

Job description

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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.