Location
London

Hours
Full Time

Salary
Competitive salary with biannual reviews for the first three years

About the Role
Protect Nature. Shape Sustainable Development. Build a Better Future. At Mott MacDonald, we believe nature belongs at the heart of every development. As global challenges like urbanisation, climate change, and biodiversity loss intensify, our Nature Services Team is leading the way in integrating ecological and marine expertise into infrastructure projects that serve both people and the planet.

As a Graduate Ecologist or Graduate Freshwater Ecologist, you'll be part of a passionate, multidisciplinary team working across sectors such as water, transport, energy, and coastal infrastructure. You'll contribute to projects spanning the full lifecycle—from early design to implementation—ensuring nature is protected, enhanced, and celebrated.

We're proud to be a wholly employee-owned company, where our people shape our direction and success. You'll be supported by a culture that values your wellbeing, encourages innovation, and empowers you to grow your career with purpose. The successful candidate will be expected to start in May 2026.

Graduate Ecologist – Restoring Balance Between Nature and Infrastructure
You will work on a mix of office-based and field assignments, gaining hands-on experience and learning from seasoned ecologists and technical specialists. Your work will help shape infrastructure projects to be more nature-positive, resilient, and sustainable.

What You'll Do:
- Conduct ecological surveys and assessments
- Support biodiversity enhancement and habitat restoration
- Influence scheme design to integrate nature-based solutions
- Promote best practice in ecological planning and mitigation
- Collaborate across disciplines to deliver sustainable outcomes

Graduate Freshwater Ecologist – Protecting Aquatic Ecosystems
You will deliver freshwater ecology inputs to schemes providing water resources, flood protection, transport, and energy. Your contributions will help protect and enhance freshwater ecosystems and influence sustainable infrastructure development.

What You'll Do:
- Plan and conduct freshwater ecology surveys
- Collate and analyse freshwater ecology data
- Collaborate with hydrologists, hydrogeologists, water quality specialists, and engineers
- Provide freshwater ecology inputs to a range of environmental assessments
- Influence scheme design for the benefit of freshwater habitats and species

Why These Roles Matter:
- Empowering Growth: Structured training, mentoring, and real-world experience to help you thrive
- Celebrating Achievements: Your contributions are recognised and valued
- Inclusive Culture: A workplace where everyone feels seen, heard, and respected
- Wellbeing First: Flexible working, mental health support, and a caring environment
- Societal Impact: Your work helps protect ecosystems, promote biodiversity, and shape sustainable infrastructure

Experience
Less than 12 months' relevant experience (excluding placements). No prior professional experience required, but relevant academic or practical exposure is beneficial.

About you
Committed and motivated graduate with a genuine passion to make a difference. Proactive, able to work independently and efficiently. Strong communication skills with clients and colleagues. High attention to detail and clarity in written work. Structured and analytical approach to problem solving. Enthusiastic about joining a multidisciplinary team and contributing to sustainable infrastructure projects.

We support flexible working and encourage candidates to discuss any flexibility needs at interview stage.

Mott MacDonald Ltd. currently does not offer Skilled Worker visa sponsorship. Applications from candidates requiring Graduate visa or other time-limited visas are not accepted due to the temporary nature and future sponsorship requirements. Applications from candidates eligible for alternative UK immigration routes without sponsorship requirements are welcome.

Qualifications
Minimum of a bachelor's degree (obtained no earlier than 2024 or expected to achieve) in one of the following disciplines:
- Ecology
- Biodiversity
- Biology
- Conservation

Applicants should demonstrate genuine interest in the role and Mott MacDonald by highlighting relevant experience, academic modules, or research about the company, values, and projects.

All applications are reviewed personally without the use of AI tools. Authenticity in responses is expected to help us get to know the real you.