At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a passionate team to protect nature and shape sustainable development.
- Company: Mott MacDonald, an employee-owned company focused on ecological expertise.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, biannual reviews, flexible benefits, and a contributory pension.
- Other info: Enjoy a supportive culture that values wellbeing and innovation.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on biodiversity and sustainable infrastructure projects.
- Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in relevant fields and a passion for ecology.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Join to apply for the 2026 UK Graduate Ecology Career Path role at Mott MacDonald
Before making an application, please browse all graduate opportunities available as we will only accept one application per candidate. Once you have made an application, you will not be able to make changes to your selection or make a new application.
Protect Nature. Shape Sustainable Development. Build a Better Future. At Mott MacDonald, we believe nature belongs at the heart of every development. As global challenges like urbanisation, climate change, and biodiversity loss intensify, our Nature Services Team is leading the way in integrating ecological and marine expertise into infrastructure projects that serve both people and the planet.
As a Graduate Ecologist, Graduate Freshwater Ecologist, or Graduate Marine Scientist, you’ll be part of a passionate, multidisciplinary team working across sectors such as water, transport, energy, and coastal infrastructure. You’ll contribute to projects that span the full lifecycle—from early design to implementation—ensuring nature is protected, enhanced, and celebrated.
Job Description
We’re proud to be a wholly employee-owned company, where our people shape our direction and success. You’ll be supported by a culture that values your wellbeing, encourages innovation, and empowers you to grow your career with purpose.
Graduate Ecologist – Restoring Balance Between Nature and Infrastructure
You’ll work on a mix of office-based and field assignments, gaining hands-on experience and learning from seasoned ecologists and technical specialists. Your work will help shape infrastructure projects to be more nature-positive, resilient, and sustainable.
- Conduct ecological surveys and assessments
- Support biodiversity enhancement and habitat restoration
- Influence scheme design to integrate nature-based solutions
- Promote best practice in ecological planning and mitigation
- Collaborate across disciplines to deliver sustainable outcomes
Graduate Freshwater Ecologist – Protecting Aquatic Ecosystems
You’ll deliver freshwater ecology inputs to schemes providing water resources, flood protection, transport, and energy. Your contributions will help protect and enhance freshwater ecosystems and influence sustainable infrastructure development.
- Plan and conduct freshwater ecology surveys
- Collate and analyse freshwater ecology data
- Collaborate with hydrologists, hydrogeologists, water quality specialists, and engineers
- Provide freshwater ecology inputs to a range of environmental assessments
- Influence scheme design for the benefit of freshwater habitats and species
Graduate Marine Scientist – Safeguarding Coastal and Marine Environments
You’ll contribute to marine, coastal, and estuarine projects that span engineering, flood defences, port infrastructure, energy developments, and environmental policy. This is an environmental role focused on protecting marine ecosystems and supporting sustainable development.
- Process large environmental datasets and conduct literature reviews
- Prepare environmental assessments and marine licence applications
- Design and implement coastal and offshore surveys
- Coordinate technical inputs and manage marine licences
- Collaborate with engineers, oceanographers, and planners on multidisciplinary projects
Why These Roles Matter
- Empowering Growth: Structured training, mentoring, and real-world experience to help you thrive
- Celebrating Achievements: Your contributions are recognised and valued
- Inclusive Culture: A workplace where everyone feels seen, heard, and respected
- Wellbeing First: Flexible working, mental health support, and a caring environment
- Societal Impact: Your work helps protect ecosystems, promote biodiversity, and shape sustainable infrastructure
Candidate Specification
We are looking for committed and motivated graduates with a genuine passion and a desire to make a difference in the world.
- Less than 12 months’ relevant experience (excluding placements)
- A minimum of a bachelor’s degree (obtained no earlier than 2024) or expected to achieve one, in one of the following degree disciplines: Ecology, Biodiversity, Biology, Conservation, Marine, Marine Biology, Marine Ecosystem Management
What We Offer
- Biannual salary reviews
- A competitive salary
- Contributory pension up to 7% of your salary
- A flexible benefits scheme
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
We put equality, diversity and inclusion at the heart of our business, seeking to promote fair employment procedures and practices to ensure equal opportunities for all.
2026 UK Graduate Ecology Career Path in Liverpool employer: Mott MacDonald
Mott MacDonald is an exceptional employer that prioritises employee wellbeing and professional growth within a collaborative and inclusive culture. As a wholly employee-owned company, we empower our graduates to make meaningful contributions to sustainable development while enjoying flexible working arrangements and comprehensive support for mental health. Join us in protecting ecosystems and shaping the future of infrastructure, all while being part of a passionate team dedicated to making a positive impact on the planet.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land 2026 UK Graduate Ecology Career Path in Liverpool
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Before your interview, dive into Mott MacDonald's projects and values. This will help you connect your passion for ecology with their mission to protect nature and shape sustainable development.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Run through common interview questions related to ecology and sustainability. We can even help you with mock interviews to boost your confidence and refine your answers.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your enthusiasm! During the interview, let your passion for ecology shine through. Share personal experiences or projects that highlight your commitment to protecting ecosystems and promoting biodiversity.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can go a long way. It shows your appreciation and keeps you fresh in their minds as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace 2026 UK Graduate Ecology Career Path in Liverpool
Some tips for your application 🫡
Do Your Research:Before you dive into your application, take a moment to explore all the graduate opportunities available at Mott MacDonald. This will help you understand where you fit best and ensure you're making the right choice for your one application.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight your passion for ecology and how your skills align with the role. We want to see your personality shine through, so don’t be afraid to let us know why you’re excited about this opportunity!
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your qualifications and enthusiasm.
Apply Through Our Website:Remember, the only way to apply is through our website. It’s super easy! Just follow the prompts, and make sure you double-check everything before hitting submit. Once you’ve sent it off, you won’t be able to make changes, so take your time!
How to prepare for a job interview at Mott MacDonald
✨Know Your Ecology Basics
Brush up on your knowledge of ecology, biodiversity, and conservation principles. Be ready to discuss how these concepts apply to real-world scenarios, especially in relation to infrastructure projects. This will show your passion and understanding of the field.
✨Showcase Your Team Spirit
Since collaboration is key in this role, prepare examples of how you've worked effectively in teams. Highlight any multidisciplinary projects you've been involved in, as this will demonstrate your ability to work across different sectors and with various specialists.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions that test your technical knowledge and problem-solving skills. Review common ecological survey methods and data analysis techniques. Being able to articulate your thought process during these discussions will impress the interviewers.
✨Align with Their Values
Familiarise yourself with Mott MacDonald's commitment to sustainability and employee wellbeing. Be prepared to discuss how your personal values align with theirs, and share your vision for contributing to a nature-positive future through your work.
