Aquatic Invasive Non-Native Species Scientist

Do you have the drive, skills and career potential to work with us as an experienced invasive species scientist, influencing environmental outcomes for our freshwater systems at the project level and beyond? We are seeking to further expand our team of freshwater ecologists within AtkinsRéalis’ Water Management Consultancy. If you are looking to join an established team focused on the delivery of interesting and significant projects, framed by a strong culture of wellbeing, innovation and inclusivity, this is the place for you.

Our Water Management Consultancy operates at the interface between people and the water environment. Our key services cover all aspects of water management including aquatic ecology, hydromorphology, river restoration, flood and coastal erosion risk management, integrated catchment management, regulation and assurance, strategic asset management, water resources and water quality planning, hydrogeology and hydrology, climate futures and resilience, coastal and marine environmental management, natural capital and Biodiversity Net Gain assessment and economic appraisal. We have a reputation for technical excellence, innovation and actively shaping the future of our industry. We are a friendly and approachable team. We enjoy the work we do and have fun while doing it. We have a huge variety of projects on‑go at any one time. When you start this role, it could take your career wherever your interests lie. Everyone here is willing to pitch in and help because we want you to succeed and are ready to help you grow. We support flexible and remote working policies to help you get the most out of life. We also have recent pledges for Women’s Equality, and we are a Disability Confident and Inclusive Employer.

Your role:

• Lead on water resource INNS investigations and develop the application of risk assessment tools for our key water company and regulatory clients.
• Support the INNS Service Line team by integrating and collaborating with multi‑disciplinary teams, bringing technical knowledge and influence to secure the best outcomes for the environment and our clients.
• Support the development and application of emerging approaches in INNS management, transfer control to ensure technical development of staff within our aquatic ecology team.
• Develop and manage large‑scale INNS/aquatic species monitoring programmes through collaborative work with internal teams and supply chain.
• Drive and secure positive outcomes for the environment, delivering technical consultancy services across a range of AtkinsRéalis core markets and services.
• Support the national aquatic ecology team in leading ecological input to projects including field surveys and technical reporting, and assist on the delivery of catchment science projects with a focus on river and wetland function, habitat design, management and restoration, hydroecology, ecological impact assessment, Water Framework Directive compliance and Biodiversity Net Gain.
• Maintain excellent relationships with other professionals (environmental scientists, engineers, planning consultants) throughout AtkinsRéalis to provide a consistent and integrated service to clients.
• Develop technical skills through Continuing Professional Development.

About you:

• Experience of invasive non‑native species with a specific focus on the assessment of aquatic INNS transfer risk, and knowledge of programme, resource and financial management.
• A degree in a relevant discipline is essential and a post‑graduate qualification desirable (focus on invasive species/hydroecology or catchment management), with considerable consultancy experience.
• Chartership with a relevant professional body is typically a prerequisite. In exceptional circumstances, if not already chartered, the right candidate would be willing to work towards securing chartership in the short‑term, with support and mentorship from chartered colleagues.
• Highly numerate, literate and familiar with IT and software appropriate to the tasks undertaken.
• Experience of working on large water resource projects as part of a multidisciplinary team is desirable, as is experience of specifying, undertaking and managing the delivery of invasive species surveys.
• Highly motivated and proactive; focused on achieving and delivering technical excellence.
• Skilled at collaborative working, with good interpersonal skills and an ability to communicate effectively.
• Must be flexible, hands‑on, proactive, able to work independently as well as part of a wider team and comfortable applying skills in a commercial environment.

Rewards & benefits:

Enjoy competitive salaries, employee rewards and a range of benefits tailored to health, wellbeing, financial and lifestyle choices. You can grow your skills through training and professional development, and benefit from a hybrid working culture and flexible holiday allowances to balance work and personal life.

Additional information:

This role may require security clearance and offers of employment will be dependent on obtaining the relevant level of clearance. If this is necessary, it will be discussed during the interview. The vetting process is delivered by United Kingdom Security Vetting (UKSV) and may require proof of UK residency of 5 years or longer. If applying to this role please do not reference any current or previous security clearance details in your conversation or application.

We are committed to creating a culture where everyone feels they belong, where we can all be ourselves, thrive and develop to be the best we can be. We offer family‑friendly, inclusive employment policies, flexible working arrangements and employee resource groups to support all employees. As an Equal Opportunities Employer, we value applications from all backgrounds, cultures and ability.