Closing Date
2025-09-26
Job Title: Aquatic Ecologist
Location: Falmer (Sussex) (with travel across a variety of sites) - hybrid working model
Salary: around £45,000 depending on experience
About the Role
Are you passionate about protecting aquatic ecosystems while enabling sustainable infrastructure development? Southern Water is seeking a skilled and driven Aquatic Ecologist to join our Enabling Team within ETS. You’ll play a pivotal role in delivering robust ecological risk management across a diverse portfolio of water, wastewater, and network projects—from design conception to construction completion.
This is a dynamic position that blends fieldwork, technical expertise, stakeholder engagement, and strategic thinking. You’ll help shape the future of ecological resilience in the region while identifying opportunities to enhance the natural environment.
Key Responsibilities
Safety & Environment
1. Champion health and safety best practices across all project phases
2. Develop and implement H&S strategies, including risk assessments
3. Ensure compliance with environmental and sustainability standards
Technical Delivery
4. Lead and support aquatic ecology surveys and assessments
5. Provide ecological input into permitting, compliance, and infrastructure projects
6. Design mitigation strategies and contribute to ecological enhancement initiatives
7. Collaborate with engineers, project managers, and environmental advisors
8. Manage aquatic ecology deliverables within budget and timeline
Innovation & Continuous Improvement
9. Research and apply innovative ecological solutions
10. Support Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) initiatives, including River Condition Assessments
Stakeholder Engagement
11. Build strong relationships with regulators, partners, and internal teams
12. Communicate ecological risks and solutions effectively
Financial & Commercial
13. Prepare cost estimates and support TOTEX-efficient project delivery
14. Make informed decisions balancing ecological integrity and business needs
Qualifications & Experience
Essential
15. Degree (BSc/MSc) in Ecology, Environmental Science, or related field
16. Membership of CIEEM, IFM, or equivalent professional body
17. Proven experience in aquatic ecology within the water or infrastructure sector
18. Proficiency in electric fishing, macroinvertebrate sampling (TL3), or macrophyte surveys
19. Strong understanding of UK environmental legislation and permitting
Desirable
20. Experience with MoRPh surveys and River Condition Assessments
21. Familiarity with GIS and ecological data analysis
22. Knowledge of BNG principles and application
Skills & Attributes
23. Excellent report writing and presentation skills
24. Strong organisational and time management abilities
25. Collaborative mindset with the ability to work independently
26. Confident decision-maker with a proactive approach
27. Full UK driving licence
Why Join Us?
At Southern Water, we’re committed to protecting the environment while delivering essential services. You’ll be part of a multidisciplinary team that values innovation, sustainability, and professional growth. We offer a supportive work culture, flexible working arrangements, and opportunities for continued development.
How to Apply
Ready to make a splash in your career? Submit your CV and cover letter via our careers portal.