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

Hours
Full time, with frequent fieldwork and periods of staying away from home during the working week where required.

Salary
Negotiable

About the Role
Five Rivers is a widely recognised industry 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 seasonal role supports a wide range of freshwater monitoring and river survey projects across the south of England. It 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 the delivery of aquatic monitoring and freshwater ecology surveys across rivers, streams and wetlands, contributing to projects that help improve and protect freshwater environments. You will assist with fish surveys, habitat assessments, water quality monitoring, hydrometry and ecological data collection. Most days will be spent outdoors in the field, often working in and around water. Flexibility and a willingness to work outdoors in varied conditions are essential. Accommodation and subsistence are provided in line with company policy during periods away from home.

Key responsibilities include assisting with fish surveys, fish rescues and habitat assessments; supporting macroinvertebrate and aquatic plant surveys; carrying out water quality sampling and monitoring; assisting with flow gauging and telemetry site visits; recording field data accurately using field sheets, tablets and software; preparing, maintaining and decontaminating survey equipment; working safely in accordance with RAMS and company procedures; and supporting senior ecologists with reporting and data management.

Experience
Some practical fieldwork experience in an ecological, environmental or outdoor setting is desirable. This may include college placements, volunteering or seasonal work.

About you
- Enthusiastic and motivated to develop practical ecological survey skills
- Basic understanding of freshwater ecology and awareness of aquatic survey work such as fish surveys, invertebrate sampling and habitat assessments
- Awareness of protected freshwater species and the importance of wildlife legislation and biosecurity
- 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
- Full UK Driving Licence

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

Desirable but not essential:
- First Aid qualification
- CSCS card
- Experience working in or around water
- Student membership of CIEEM or IFM

Training can be provided for desirable qualifications.