Join to apply for the 2026 UK Graduate Ecology Career Path role at Mott MacDonald
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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.
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