Graduate Ecologist – 2026 UK Career Path
Join Mott MacDonald as a Graduate Ecologist or Graduate Freshwater Ecologist in 2026. The role starts in May 2026 and is based in the UK with locations in Brighton, Southampton, Glasgow, London and Cambridge.
About the Role
As part of our Nature Services Team you will work on multidisciplinary projects in water, transport, energy and coastal infrastructure. You will conduct ecological surveys, support biodiversity enhancement, influence scheme design and collaborate across disciplines to deliver nature-positive, resilient and sustainable solutions.
Key Responsibilities
* 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 – Key Tasks
* Plan and conduct freshwater ecology surveys.
* Collect, collate and analyze 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.
Candidate Specification
You are a recent graduate with a bachelor’s degree (or expected completion no earlier than 2024) in Ecology, Biodiversity, Biology or Conservation, and at least 12 months of relevant experience (excluding placements).
* Proactively completes tasks efficiently and independently.
* Communicates effectively and clearly with clients and colleagues.
* Delivers high quality written work with strong attention to detail.
* Demonstrates a structured and analytical problem‑solving approach.
Benefits & Development
* Structured training, mentoring and real‑world experience.
* Recognition of achievements and a culture that values wellbeing.
* Flexible working arrangements and mental health support.
* Biannual salary reviews for the first three years.
* Contributory pension up to 7% of salary.
* Flexible benefits scheme to suit individual needs.
Immigration & Sponsorship
Mott MacDonald does not currently offer sponsorship for candidates under the Skilled Worker visa route in the UK. Applications from candidates working under the Graduate visa route or other temporary visas are not accepted.
Location(s)
* Brighton, GB
* Southampton, GB
* Glasgow, GB
* London, GB
* Cambridge, GB
Contract Information
Contract type: Permanent
Work pattern: Full Time
Recruitment Contact
earlycareers.recruitment@mottmac.com
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