Graduate Ecologist

Penguin Recruitment; Southend-on-Sea; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 29,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious ecological consultancy based in Harlow is seeking a Graduate Ecologist. This role offers recent graduates an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on field experience while supporting senior staff with ecological surveys and report preparation. Candidates should have a degree in Ecology or Environmental Science, a genuine interest in wildlife conservation, and strong communication skills. The position includes a salary of £25,000 DOE and professional development support.

Benefits

Structured training and mentoring

Support towards CIEEM membership

Clear progression opportunities

Qualifications

• Recent graduate or early-career ecologist seeking field experience.
• Some practical field survey experience (academic or voluntary experience welcomed).
• Basic understanding of UK wildlife legislation.

Responsibilities

• Assist with ecological surveys including Phase 1 / UKHab and protected species surveys.
• Prepare ecological reports such as PEAs and survey reports.
• Collect and manage ecological data.

Skills

Interest in UK ecology and wildlife conservation

Organisational skills

Communication skills

Education

Degree in Ecology or Environmental Science

Job description

Graduate Ecologist

Location: Harlow
Salary: £25,000 DOE
Contract: Permanent, Full-Time

Our client is a well-regarded environmental and ecological consultancy delivering high-quality services across the South East and beyond. Due to continued growth, they are looking to recruit a Graduate Ecologist to join their team in Harlow, offering an excellent opportunity to begin a career in ecological consultancy within a supportive and experienced team.

This role is ideal for a recent graduate or early-career ecologist looking to gain hands‑on field experience, develop technical skills, and work towards professional accreditation.

The Role

As a Graduate Ecologist, you will support senior staff with a range of ecological work, including:

• Assisting with ecological surveys, including Phase 1 / UKHab and protected species surveys
• Supporting the preparation of ecological reports such as PEAs and survey reports
• Collecting and managing ecological data
• Assisting with mitigation, enhancement, and site monitoring works
• Supporting project delivery while developing field and report‑writing skills
• Working in line with health & safety procedures and best practice guidance

About You

You are likely to have:

• A degree in Ecology, Environmental Science, or a related discipline
• A genuine interest in UK ecology and wildlife conservation
• Some practical field survey experience (academic or voluntary experience welcomed)
• A basic understanding of UK wildlife legislation
• Strong organisational and communication skills
• Willingness to learn and develop professionally
• A full UK driving licence (or working towards one)

What's On Offer

• Salary of £25,000 DOE
• Harlow-based role with opportunities for field and office work
• Structured training and mentoring from experienced ecologists
• Support towards CIEEM membership and professional development
• Friendly, supportive team environment with clear progression opportunities

If you wish to discuss this further, please contact James Hardie at Penguin Recruitment.