Location
Codford, Wiltshire office base with regular travel across Hampshire, Wiltshire, Somerset and the wider South of England.

Hours
Seasonal role from June to November involving frequent fieldwork and periods of staying away from home during the working week where required.

Salary
Negotiable

About the Role
Five Rivers is a well-established specialist in ecological, environmental and civil engineering solutions with over 25 years of experience. We are seeking an enthusiastic Assistant Aquatic Ecologist to join our Water & Environment Monitoring team on a 6-month fixed term contract. This role offers an excellent opportunity for someone early in their career to gain practical, hands-on experience working alongside experienced aquatic ecologists in a busy and rewarding field environment.

The role involves supporting a wide range of freshwater monitoring and river survey projects across the south of England. You will assist with fish surveys, habitat assessments, water quality monitoring, hydrometry and ecological data collection. Most work will be conducted outdoors in varied weather conditions, often working in and around water. Accommodation and subsistence are provided in line with company policy during periods away from home.

This position is ideal for someone looking to develop practical ecological survey skills and gain valuable industry experience within a supportive and knowledgeable team environment.

Experience
Some practical fieldwork experience in ecological, environmental or outdoor settings, including college placements, volunteering or seasonal work is desirable. A basic understanding of freshwater ecology and aquatic survey techniques such as fish surveys, invertebrate sampling and habitat assessments is preferred.

About you
- Comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions, including wading in flowing water, boat working and carrying equipment across rough ground
- Willingness to travel widely across the south of England and stay away from home during the working week when required
- Good attention to detail and accurate field data recording skills
- Basic IT skills including Word and Excel
- Enthusiastic about freshwater ecology with a strong willingness to learn and develop practical survey skills
- Full UK Driving Licence

Qualifications
Applicants from further education or degree-level backgrounds in land-based, agricultural, environmental or biological subjects (e.g. BTEC, Diploma, T Level, degree or currently studying towards these) are welcome.

Desirable (training can be provided if not held):
- First Aid qualification
- CSCS card
- Experience working in or around water
- Student membership of CIEEM or IFM