Principal Aquatic Ecologist

At AECOM, we’re delivering a better world. Whether improving your commute, keeping the lights on, providing access to clean water, or transforming skylines, our work helps people and communities thrive. We are the world’s trusted infrastructure consulting firm, partnering with clients to solve the world’s most complex challenges and build legacies for future generations.

Our multidisciplinary Water Environment team are looking for a Principal Aquatic Ecologist to provide technical expertise for new and existing projects, aiding the continued growth and development of our successful team. At AECOM, we’re at the forefront of innovation, delivering an exceptional portfolio of water programmes and projects through long-term partnerships with key clients. These include the Environment Agency and Natural England, Water Companies, renewable energy projects, nationally significant infrastructure projects, and many others.

We deliver a diverse range of projects, such as:

• Baseline data collection and monitoring for major infrastructure and utility projects
• Fish passage and weir removal projects
• Fish rescue and translocation
• Habitat restoration for regulators and the private sector
• Pollution response surveys
• Water quality investigations

Our Aquatic Ecology team operates in our Nottingham and Leeds laboratories, analysing macroinvertebrate and other samples, undertaking the full range of aquatic field surveys, and providing robust technical deliverables and services to our clients. This role offers an unparalleled opportunity to support a talented, passionate team committed to leaving a positive impact on our aquatic environment.

Here’s what you’ll do:

• Lead: Manage and coordinate the technical delivery of aquatic ecology input on projects for internal and external clients.
• Deliver: Undertake data analysis and processing; producing EcIA documents in line with CIEEM guidelines. Provide aquatic ecology input into EcIA, planning, mitigation, and multi-disciplinary projects. Author technical reports and work with our wider teams to provide specialist input.
• Collaborate: Work closely with other members of the Aquatic Ecology, Water Environment and Ecology teams to support a coherent nationwide approach providing expert advice to our clients.

Qualifications:

A degree (or equivalent) in Aquatic Ecology or another related discipline such as Freshwater, Marine Biology, Ecology, Zoology. Understanding and experience implementing industry standard monitoring techniques and analyses for aquatic ecology (macroinvertebrates, macrophytes, river habitats etc.) and associated consenting/permitting requirements. Familiar with legislation relating to the aquatic environment and its implementation, including the Water Framework Directive (WFD). Experience of the EcIA/EIA process, from baseline data collection (desk-based and field surveys) to impact assessment and mitigation design. Member of CIEEM, CIWEM, IFM, or similar professional body or eligible to qualify. Able to travel to site.

If you’re passionate about innovation and turning bold ideas into reality, we want to hear from you! We celebrate diversity, including neurodiversity, and believe it enriches our team. If you are an applicant with a disability that requires reasonable accommodation to complete the application process, please contact us.

We recognise that everyone’s circumstances are different, and we’re happy to discuss part-time or flexible working arrangements that suit you. Here you will thrive in an inclusive and forward-thinking environment where your contributions are valued.