Freshwater Laboratory Scientist

APEM Group; Letchworth; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a forward-thinking environmental consultancy as a Freshwater Scientist, where your passion for freshwater ecology will make a real impact. This role offers the chance to analyze macroinvertebrate samples, engage in fieldwork, and contribute to vital environmental projects. You'll work with a dedicated team committed to scientific excellence, delivering high-quality results while supporting environmental conservation. With opportunities for continuous learning and development, you'll be part of a growing organization that values diversity and inclusivity, making a difference in protecting the environment worldwide.

Benefits

Private medical insurance

Access to mental health first aiders

Comprehensive income protection

Flexible working options

Qualifications

• Strong foundation in macroinvertebrate identification to at least family level.
• Experience with aquatic ecology and environmental conservation.

Responsibilities

• Analyze and process macroinvertebrate samples to industry-leading standards.
• Contribute to technical reports and maintain high standards under AQC procedures.

Skills

Identifying macroinvertebrates

Aquatic ecology knowledge

Field sample collection

Analytic Quality Control (AQC)

Water Framework Directive methodologies

Education

BSc in a relevant subject

Job description

About The Role

Are you passionate about freshwater ecology and eager to make a real impact? Do you have experience in identifying macroinvertebrates and a drive to develop specialist taxonomic skills? Have you been looking for an opportunity where your work directly supports environmental conservation and scientific excellence?

APEM Biolabs is seeking a skilled and dedicated Freshwater Scientist, or Senior Freshwater Scientist depending on experience, to join our expert team. Our analysts are at the heart of assessing the health and ecological integrity of freshwater habitats, delivering high-quality results for clients across the water industry, regulatory bodies, and environmental consultancies. We pride ourselves on offering rapid, high-capacity services, while maintaining the flexibility and scientific rigour that our clients trust.

In this role, you will analyze and process macroinvertebrate samples to industry-leading standards, with opportunities to participate in fieldwork, data analysis, and reporting. You should have a BSc in a relevant subject and a strong foundation in macroinvertebrate identification to at least family level. A genuine passion for freshwater invertebrates and the ambition to develop taxonomic expertise are essential. Previous experience in field sample collection is advantageous but not essential, as training and development opportunities are available.

Success in this role involves delivering timely and accurate sample analysis, maintaining high standards under Analytic Quality Control (AQC) procedures, contributing to technical reports where appropriate, and supporting the team’s commitments to health, safety, quality, and environmental standards. You will also have the chance to engage in field surveys and help foster the development of specialist taxonomic skills that are increasingly rare.

Ideal candidates will have experience identifying macroinvertebrates from different habitats across the UK, a good understanding of aquatic ecology, and the ability to meet tight deadlines. Additional expertise in groups such as damselflies, dragonflies, and INNS species, as well as familiarity with AQC systems and Water Framework Directive methodologies, would be advantageous.

We offer the opportunity to work on a variety of projects, many of which align with personal interests. We are committed to continuous development and learning to support your career. Benefits include private medical insurance, access to mental health first aiders, comprehensive income protection, and flexible working options to balance work and life.

Next Steps

We value diversity and inclusivity. If you don’t meet every requirement, we still encourage you to apply and support your development—whether through part-time work or gaining experience in specific areas. We are a growing company capable of adapting roles to individual skills.

If you believe you are a good fit for our fast-growing business, please apply via our website with your CV and basic information. We review applications promptly and will respond to all applicants.

About You & Us

The APEM Group is a global environmental consultancy working with clients including large corporations and governments to address diverse environmental projects worldwide. Our pioneering work has driven our growth and strategic partnerships with like-minded organizations. Our core mission is the protection of the environment worldwide, driven by our dedicated team.