Location
Nottingham, Leeds, Basingstoke, or Edinburgh

Hours
Full Time

Salary
Negotiable

About the Role
Join AECOM, a global infrastructure consulting firm dedicated to delivering a better world through innovative and sustainable solutions. As a Graduate Aquatic Ecologist, you will support the delivery of consultancy and advisory services across a range of aquatic ecology projects. Your work will include field and site surveys, laboratory analysis, and collaboration with multidisciplinary teams to provide high-quality technical outputs within programme and budget constraints. You will be involved in the collection and analysis of aquatic survey data including fish, macroinvertebrates, crayfish, macrophytes, riparian mammals, and River Habitat Survey. Laboratory work will include macroinvertebrate sample analysis in our Leeds or Nottingham laboratories. You will also assist with terrestrial ecology surveys and contribute to maintaining strong client relationships. This role offers the opportunity to work alongside experienced ecologists and water scientists across the UK and Ireland, gaining valuable experience and professional development within a supportive environment.

Benefits
Enjoy a flexible hybrid working model, career development opportunities including a structured Graduate Development Programme, access to AECOM University, technical practice networks, and volunteering days. You will receive on-the-job mentoring from senior team members and support towards professional chartership with relevant institutions such as CIEEM or IFM. AECOM offers a diverse and inclusive workplace culture that values your unique contributions and supports your well-being and growth.

Experience
Previous commercial and/or regulatory experience in aquatic ecology is advantageous but not essential. Freshwater ecology experience and laboratory macroinvertebrate analysis are essential. Familiarity with aquatic ecology surveys including fish, macroinvertebrates, crayfish, macrophytes, riparian mammals, and River Habitat Survey is highly desirable.

About you
Strong attention to detail, numeracy, and the ability to structure and prioritise work effectively within a team environment. Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, with confidence to engage with clients, colleagues, stakeholders, and subcontractors. Ability to explain and discuss technical issues clearly and capture feedback constructively. A full driving license and willingness to travel occasionally for site visits with equipment is desirable. You should be enthusiastic, motivated, and eager to develop your skills within a collaborative and supportive team.

Qualifications
A degree in Aquatic Ecology, Ecology, Freshwater Biology, Marine Ecology, Zoology, or a related discipline is required. An MSc or higher qualification is preferred but a BSc will be considered. Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint is essential. Permanent right to work in Ireland or the UK is required as visa sponsorship is not available.