Ecologist

Mott MacDonald Bentley | MMB; Reading; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Pension contributions matching (4.5% to 7%)

Annual bonus participation

33 days holiday

Private Medical Insurance

Flexible working arrangements

Job summary

Mott MacDonald Bentley | MMB is looking for an Ecologist to join their team in Reading. The role involves working on significant water and wastewater projects, engaging in all phases from feasibility to construction. The ideal candidate will have a degree in Ecology, knowledge of biodiversity net gain practices, and experience with ecological surveys. Benefits include robust pension matching, flexible working arrangements, and comprehensive health insurance. Note: This role does not offer sponsorship for the Skilled Worker visa route.

Qualifications

• Degree in Ecology or a directly related subject.
• Experience in ecological surveys and report writing.
• Knowledge of biodiversity net gain assessment.

Responsibilities

• Engage in projects covering all lifecycle phases.
• Promote best practices and integrate innovative technology.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams.

Skills

Biodiversity net gain principles

Report writing

Ecological surveys

Collaboration

Education

Degree in Ecology or related subject

Job description

Role Overview

We are seeking an Ecologist to work on major water and wastewater schemes across all project phases, from feasibility through construction, delivering award‑winning projects and supporting environmental sustainability.

Responsibilities

• Engage in projects covering all lifecycle phases, influencing scheme design and enhancements, and promoting best practices.
• Apply biodiversity net gain principles and integrate them into client advice, helping develop client strategies.
• Work on a diverse range of projects and tasks, leveraging training to grow skills.
• Collaborate with ecologists, environmental and engineering colleagues, both on‑site and in office.
• Utilise integrated solutions and innovative technology, maintaining quality and supporting sustainable environmental business.

Required Qualifications and Experience

• Degree in Ecology (or directly related subject).
• Knowledge, understanding and experience of applying relevant guidance for surveys.
• Report writing experience.
• Knowledge of biodiversity net gain assessment and implementation.
• Valid driving licence and willingness to travel within the operational region.
• Protected species licence or working toward one.

Benefits

Financial Well‑being

• MMB matches employee pension contributions between 4.5% and 7%.
• Participation in annual bonus schemes as an independently owned business.
• Annual professional institution subscription cost covered.

Health and Well‑being

• 33 days holiday per year, inclusive of public holidays, with flexible carry‑over options.
• Access to Life Assurance, Private Medical Insurance, Critical Illness Insurance, Health Screening.
• Flexible working arrangements to support responsibilities beyond the workplace.
• Membership in Advanced Employee Networks for LGBTQ+, gender, race, ethnicity, disability and parents/carers communities.

Enhanced Family and Carer Leave

• 26 weeks paid maternity and adoption leave, two weeks paid paternity/partner leave, option for shared parental leave.
• Up to 2 paid additional days leave for significant caring responsibilities.

Learning and Development

• Structured development schemes supporting progression toward professional chartership.
• Fast‑tracked chartership reviews, mentorship, hands‑on experience and tailored training from day one.

Note: This role does not currently offer sponsorship for the Skilled Worker visa route. Applicants who are eligible for alternative immigration routes are welcome to apply.

Equal Opportunities: Mott MacDonald Bentley welcomes applications from all sectors of the community and is dedicated to creating a diverse workplace where everyone feels included. All recruitment practices are barrier‑free and inclusive.

Location: Reading, GB
Contract: Permanent
Work Pattern: Full Time
Market: Water
Discipline: Water
Job Ref: 13998