Overview

We are looking for an enthusiastic Assistant Aquatic Ecologist to join our Water & Environment Monitoring team on a seasonal contract, supporting a wide range of freshwater monitoring and river survey projects across the south of England. This is an excellent opportunity for someone early in their career to gain practical, hands-on experience working alongside experienced aquatic ecologists in a busy and rewarding field environment.

The role is based from our office in Codford, Wiltshire, with regular travel to project sites across Hampshire, Wiltshire, Somerset and the wider South of England. The position involves frequent fieldwork and periods of staying away from home during the working week where required. Accommodation and subsistence are provided in line with company policy.

This is a seasonal role from June to November, involving regular travel and periods of staying away from home where required. Due to the field-based nature of the role, flexibility and a willingness to work outdoors in varied conditions are essential.

Working closely with experienced ecologists and monitoring specialists, you will assist with fish surveys, habitat assessments, water quality monitoring, hydrometry and ecological data collection. Most days will be spent outdoors in the field, often working in and around water.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Assist with fish surveys, fish rescues and habitat assessment
  • Support macroinvertebrate and aquatic plant surveys
  • Carry out water quality sampling and monitoring
  • Assist with flow gauging and telemetry site visits
  • Record field data accurately using field sheets, tablets and software
  • Prepare, maintain and decontaminate survey equipment
  • Work safely in accordance with RAMS and company procedures
  • Support senior ecologists with reporting and data management

This role is ideal for someone looking to develop practical ecological survey skills and gain valuable industry experience within a supportive and knowledgeable team environment.

What We’re Looking For

Essential:

  • We welcome applicants from both further education and degree-level backgrounds in land-based, agricultural, environmental or biological subjects (e.g. BTEC, Diploma, T Level, or degree, or currently studying towards these)
  • Some practical fieldwork experience in an ecological, environmental or outdoor setting — this may include college placements, volunteering or seasonal work
  • A basic understanding of freshwater ecology and awareness of aquatic survey work such as fish surveys, invertebrate sampling and habitat assessments
  • Awareness of protected freshwater species and the importance of wildlife legislation and biosecurity
  • Comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions, including wading in flowing water, boat working and carrying equipment across rough ground
  • Willingness to travel widely across the south of England and stay away from home during the working week when required
  • Good attention to detail and accurate field data recording skills
  • Basic IT skills including Word and Excel
  • Enthusiasm for freshwater ecology and willingness to learn and develop practical survey skills
  • Full UK Driving Licence

Desirable – don’t be put off if you don’t have these; training can be provided:

  • First Aid qualification
  • CSCS card
  • Experience working in or around water
  • Student membership of CIEEM or IFM

We are proud to promote an inclusive and diverse working environment and welcome applications from all backgrounds.

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