Junior Aquatic Ecologist

Job Description

Here’s what you’ll do:

As a Graduate Ecologist, you will contribute to a diverse range of ecological assessments and environmental projects by: 

• Conducting desk-based freshwater and marine aquatic ecological studies, including researching designated sites, habitats, and protected species records. 

• Analyzing ecological survey data, including water quality monitoring, macroinvertebrate, macrophyte, and fish data. 

• Managing and collating large-scale datasets for the delivery of monitoring data to our clients. 

• Supporting Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) assessments and biodiversity offsetting calculations using the Defra Watercourses Metric 

• Assisting in the preparation of Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIA), Habitats Regulations Assessments (HRA) and protected species reports. 

• Helping coordinate ecological field surveys and supporting project delivery teams across the UK. 

• Collaborating with multidisciplinary specialists in GIS, landscape architecture, environmental planning, water and engineering.

Qualifications

Here’s what we’re looking for: 

• Mandatory Bachelor degree in a related discipline such as: 

• Aquatic Ecology 

• Freshwater [or Marine] Biology 

• Monitoring of the Water Environment 

• Conservation Biology, Wildlife Conservation, Environmental Science 

• Or a related subject 

• Passion for ecology and environmental conservation.  

• Good understanding of core ecological principles, including:  

• The Water Framework Directive and other freshwater/marine legislation 

• The scientific method 

• Mitigation hierarchy 

• Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) 

• Biodiversity offsetting 

• Strong technical writing and report preparation skills.  

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.  

• Ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a team environment.  

• Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage priorities and work within project budgets. 

Additional Information

At AECOM, you will have freedom to grow in a world of opportunity

Our Freedom to Grow hybrid working philosophy is the cornerstone of our success as a business – supporting a culture of flexibility, trust and performance at AECOM.

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At AECOM, we are committed to maintaining a secure and trustworthy recruitment process and take any fraudulent hiring activity seriously. To support this commitment, all newly hired employees are required to attend an in-person Day 1 onboarding at an AECOM office location as a condition of employment.

About AECOM 

AECOM is proud to offer comprehensive benefits to meet the diverse needs of our employees. Depending on your employment status, AECOM benefits may include medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, disability benefits, paid time off, leaves of absences, voluntary benefits, perks, flexible work options, well-being resources, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, service recognition awards, retirement savings plan, and employee stock purchase plan. 

AECOM is the global infrastructure leader, committed to delivering a better world. As a trusted professional services firm powered by deep technical abilities, we solve our clients’ complex challenges in water, environment, energy, transportation and buildings. Our teams partner with public- and private-sector clients to create innovative, sustainable and resilient solutions throughout the project lifecycle – from advisory, planning, design and engineering to program and construction management. AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm that had revenue of $16.1 billion in fiscal year 2025. Learn more at aecom.com. 

What makes AECOM a great place to work 

You will be part of a global team that champions your growth and career ambitions. Work on groundbreaking projects - both in your local community and on a global scale - that are transforming our industry and shaping the future. With cutting-edge technology and a network of experts, you’ll have the resources to make a real impact. Our award-winning training and development programs are designed to expand your technical expertise and leadership skills, helping you build the career you’ve always envisioned. Here, you’ll find a welcoming workplace built on respect, collaboration and community - where you have the freedom to grow in a world of opportunity. 

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we believe in your potential and are here to help you achieve it. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.