Overview

Are you passionate about protecting and understanding aquatic ecosystems? The Thames Area Analysis and Reporting Team is on the lookout for dedicated Freshwater Ecologists to join our mission in delivering essential ecological monitoring programs. From our labs and offices in Wallingford.

The core work is aquatic ecological surveying, species identification and analysing data to assess the changing environment. We also support pollution, drought and flooding incident response. The role is full of variety, there are many opportunities to build expertise, and we provide specialist training.

  • Field work, undertaking ecological field surveys of aquatic plants, macroinvertebrates, algae, fish, freshwater habitat and water quality.
  • Expect to be Driving and boat use which are both parts of this exciting role
  • In our laboratories we analyse samples of aquatic macroinvertebrates to mixed taxon level (including some to species) and identify algae.
  • From offices, we monitor, record and interpret our range of data sets and write compelling reports to inform and influence partners, protecting the environment through advice, regulation and enforcement.
  • Our working patterns are flexible, including working from home when appropriate. We develop our people, set clear objectives and commit to an inclusive, safe, fair and empowering culture.

Experience/skills required

This role requires an ecological technical degree or relevant freshwater ecology experience, including freshwater species identification, microscopy, dichotomous keys, and field survey methodologies for macroinvertebrates, plants, fish, and habitats. Core responsibilities involve conducting ecological surveys, operating telemetry, data management, interpretation, and reporting, with training provided for accreditation in river habitat survey, macroinvertebrate, and plant identification. Key behaviours include self-development, initiative, organization, adaptability, teamwork, and incident response. Safety is paramount, with specific training in water safety provided. A valid full UK driving license is required. A strong commitment to safety and understanding of working in and around water are essential.