Junior Freshwater Ecologist

Be part of the solution - shape the future of our water environment. Do you have the drive, skills and career potential to work with us as a Junior Freshwater Ecologist, influencing environmental outcomes for our freshwater systems at the project level and beyond? We are seeking to expand our team of freshwater ecologists within AtkinsRéalis' Water Management Consultancy. So, 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-the-go at any one time. So when you start this role with us, it could take your career wherever your interests lie. You'll find everyone here is willing to pitch in and help because we all want you to succeed, and we're ready to help you grow.

When it comes to living your life, we want you to get the most out of it. So, talk to us about all our flexible and remote working policies that can support your personal priorities. Also, ask us about some of our recent pledges for Women's Equality, as well as being a 'Disability Confident' and 'Inclusive Employer.'

As an aquatic ecologist within our Water Management Consultancy, focused on freshwater habitats and species, you can expect to deliver river and wetland environmental assessments and support the restoration and enhancement of our aquatic systems. Your work will produce tangible improvements within river catchments throughout the UK and overseas. The dynamic and influential relationship between our aquatic ecology team and our environmental, planning and engineering colleagues provide exceptional opportunities for you to develop your career.

You will have the chance to develop opportunities and support delivery through our increasing portfolio of UK water resource investigations, infrastructure planning and development support, and habitat management and design projects. We work for clients across the UK and overseas, including central government, regulators, water companies, NGOs and local authorities.

Your role

• To drive and secure positive outcomes for the environment, delivering technical consultancy services across a huge range of AtkinsRéalis core markets and services.
• To integrate and collaborate with multi-disciplinary teams and bring your technical knowledge and influence to bear in securing the best outcomes for the environment and our clients.
• To support our national aquatic ecology team in providing ecological input to projects including field surveys and technical reporting, as well as assisting on the delivery of a wide range 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.
• To maintain excellent relationships with other professionals (environmental scientists, engineers, planning consultants) throughout AtkinsRéalis to provide a consistent and integrated service to clients.
• To support the team with winning work from internal and external clients.
• To develop your technical skills through Continuing Professional Development.

About you

• A degree in a relevant discipline with a strong focus on freshwater ecology.
• Good understanding of aquatic ecology assessment procedures and relevant UK and EU nature conservation legislation.
• Experience of undertaking river and wetland habitat/ecological walkover and species surveys.
• Numerate, literate and familiar with IT and software appropriate to the tasks undertaken (such as GIS, Excel and other Microsoft Products).
• Highly motivated and proactive; focussed on achieving and delivering technical excellence.
• Skilled at collaborative working, with good interpersonal skills and an ability to communicate effectively.
• Flexible and prepared to take on new challenges.
• Excellent communication, report writing and presentation skills.
• Manage your own time and workload in collaboration with other team members.
• To succeed within this role, you must have a flexible, 'hands-on', proactive approach to your work. You must be able to work independently as well as part of a wider team and be comfortable applying your skills in a commercial environment.

Rewards & benefits

Explore the rewards and benefits that help you thrive - at every stage of your life and your career. Enjoy competitive salaries, employee rewards and a brilliant range of benefits you can tailor to suit your own health, wellbeing, financial and lifestyle choices. Make the most of a myriad of opportunities for training and professional development to grow your skills and expertise. And combine our hybrid working culture and flexible holiday allowances to balance a great job and fulfilling 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 with you at interview. The vetting process is delivered by United Kingdom Security Vetting (UKSV) and may require candidates to provide proof of residency in the UK of 5 years or longer.

We are committed to creating a culture where everyone feels that they belong - a place where we can all be ourselves, thrive and develop to be the best we can be. So, we offer a range of 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. As a Disability Confident Leader, we are committed to offering an interview to all applicants who have a disability and meet the essential criteria. If you would like to be considered under this commitment, please let us know at the application stage.