Environmental Data Scientist - Biodiversity

Job Description

We are looking for an ecologist who codes. You will turn ecological theory and field data into models, tools and evidence that shape infrastructure, nature-based solutions (NbS) and natural capital decisions across Singapore and Asia-Pacific.

AECOM's Singapore Biodiversity team delivers Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), NbS design, natural capital and biodiversity accounting, ecological restoration and nature-related advisory aligned with frameworks such as TNFD, SEEA EA and IFC PS6. This role builds the team's quantitative and digital capability.

You will understand why ecosystems behave as they do: population and community dynamics, landscape ecology, connectivity, succession and ecosystem function. You will also have the coding and AI skills to test those ideas against real data at scale.

A balance of biodiversity related field work will be required for this role:

Spatial ecology and modelling

• Build and validate species distribution, habitat suitability and ecological connectivity models to inform EIA, corridor design and NbS siting.
• Apply ecological theory to model design: choose predictors, scales and assumptions that reflect real ecosystem processes, and communicate uncertainty clearly.
• Produce reproducible spatial analyses and map outputs in Python, R and GIS.

Natural capital and biodiversity accounting

• Develop analytical workflows for ecosystem extent and condition accounts, biodiversity metrics and indicators aligned with SEEA EA, TNFD and related frameworks.
• Translate ecological data into metrics that clients, financiers and regulators can use for disclosure, investment and planning decisions.

Field data systems and survey pipelines

• Design and deploy field data collection applications that streamline data capture and reduce transcription and QA effort.
• Build and manage project and team databases for biodiversity survey data, including schema design, data standards, version control and access.
• Automate survey data pipelines: species list validation against reference databases, conservation status flagging, and processing of camera trap and bioacoustic outputs.

AI and automation

• Train and evaluate machine learning models, and apply pre-trained ecological AI tools (e.g. BirdNET, MegaDetector) with appropriate validation.
• Build LLM-assisted workflows for reporting, QA and data extraction, and use AI coding assistants productively and critically.
• Champion good practice in reproducible code, documentation and responsible AI use across the team.

Project delivery

• Write technical report sections and appendices for EIA, NbS and natural capital deliverables.
• Present analytical findings in client and regulator meetings, including with NParks and other agencies.
• Support field surveys where needed to understand data collection, test tools and maintain ecological grounding, whilst contributing to overall project requirements.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or higher in ecology, conservation biology, environmental science, biology or a related field, supported by a portfolio of analytical or coding work.
• Sound grounding in ecological theory and ecosystem dynamics: population and community ecology, landscape ecology, connectivity, disturbance and succession.
• Strong coding ability in Python and/or R, including data wrangling, statistical modelling and spatial analysis.
• Hands-on experience with machine learning and AI, from building and validating models to using AI-assisted coding and LLM tools critically.
• Experience designing or managing structured datasets or databases (any platform), with attention to data quality and standards.
• Experience with field data capture apps or digital survey workflows (any platform).
• Working GIS proficiency (e.g. ArcGIS Pro, QGIS, or spatial libraries in Python or R).
• Clear written and spoken English, with the ability to explain technical results to non-specialist clients and regulators.
• Willingness to join fieldwork in tropical conditions when projects require it.

Desirable skills and experience

• Flora or fauna survey and identification skills, particularly for tropical Southeast Asian taxa.
• Remote sensing and Earth observation (e.g. Google Earth Engine, Sentinel, Landsat, drone imagery) for habitat mapping and change detection.
• Experience with connectivity tools (e.g. Circuitscape, Omniscape, graph-based methods) or occupancy and abundance modelling.
• Familiarity with natural capital and nature-related frameworks: SEEA EA, TNFD, SBTN, IFC PS6, or biodiversity net gain metrics.
• Experience processing camera trap, bioacoustic or eDNA data at scale.
• App or dashboard development (e.g. Shiny, Streamlit, web or mobile frameworks), cloud platforms and version control with Git.
• Prior consultancy experience, or experience delivering applied work for government, industry or NGOs in Southeast Asia.

Additional Information

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.