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. As an Aquatic Ecologist Graduate, you will support the delivery of consultancy and advisory services across a range of aquatic ecology projects. This role involves fieldwork and site surveys, laboratory analysis, and collaboration with multidisciplinary teams to provide high-quality technical outputs within programme and budget constraints. You will work on the collection and analysis of aquatic survey data including fish, macroinvertebrates, crayfish, macrophytes, riparian mammals, and River Habitat Surveys. Laboratory analysis of macroinvertebrate samples will be conducted in our Leeds or Nottingham laboratories. Additionally, you will assist with terrestrial ecology surveys and contribute to client communications, internal procedures, and team development. This position offers excellent career development opportunities through AECOM’s graduate ADVANCE programme, mentoring, and access to professional development resources. You will be part of a supportive network of ecologists and water scientists across the UK and Ireland, working on projects that create positive environmental impact.

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

About you
Strong attention to detail and numeracy skills. Ability to structure and prioritise work effectively while collaborating closely with the team. Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, with confidence to engage with clients, colleagues, stakeholders, and sub-contractors. Ability to explain and discuss technical issues clearly and capture feedback. A full driving license and willingness to travel occasionally for site visits with equipment is desirable. You should be motivated, adaptable, and eager to develop your career within a dynamic, inclusive, and diverse environment.

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 including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint is essential. Commitment to professional development, including potential Chartership with CIEEM or IFM, is supported and encouraged.