Ecologist

Ecologist

Help Deliver Sustainable Development and Positive Biodiversity Outcomes Across the UK
Tetra Tech is seeking to recruit an Ecologist to join our Ecology team based in Southampton or Abingdon. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to a diverse portfolio of renewable energy, residential, commercial and infrastructure projects while developing your ecological consultancy career within one of the UK's leading environmental teams.

As an Ecologist, you will support the delivery of ecological surveys, assessments and environmental reporting across a broad range of projects throughout the UK. You will assist with habitat and protected species surveys, ecological data collection and the preparation of technical reports that inform planning and development decisions. Working closely with senior ecologists, planners, environmental consultants and engineers, you will help deliver practical ecological solutions that balance development needs with environmental protection.

Your work will contribute directly to the collection of accurate ecological information that supports planning applications, environmental assessments and sustainable development projects. By helping identify ecological constraints, opportunities and risks at an early stage, you will play an important role in protecting biodiversity and supporting informed decision‑making.

• Practical experience of ecological survey techniques gained through employment, volunteering, internships or academic studies.
• Understanding of habitat survey methodologies, protected species fieldwork and ecological data collection, and a strong interest in developing survey capabilities across a wide range of habitats and species groups.
• Commitment to safe working practices, accurate field recording and high‑quality ecological outputs.

• Strong written communication skills and the ability to produce clear, accurate and well‑structured technical reports.
• Comfortable analysing and interpreting ecological data and developing knowledge of ecological guidance, standards and best practice.
• Familiarity with Ecological Impact Assessment, Biodiversity Net Gain and habitat assessment methodologies is beneficial.

• Enthusiastic about ecological consultancy and committed to continued professional development.
• Open to feedback, eager to learn from experienced colleagues and motivated to build technical knowledge and confidence.

• Collaborative team player who works effectively with multidisciplinary colleagues and project stakeholders.
• Communicates ecological information clearly and professionally, adapting to both technical and non‑technical audiences.

• Developing understanding of UK ecological legislation, planning policy and environmental best practice.
• Applies knowledge responsibly while maintaining high standards of quality, health and safety and professional conduct.

• Degree or equivalent qualification in Ecology, Zoology, Environmental Science, Biological Sciences or a related discipline.

• Practical ecological survey experience from employment, volunteering, internships or academic study, and a basic understanding of UK habitats, species and wildlife legislation.

• Strong communication, organisational and report‑writing skills, and genuine enthusiasm for a career in ecological consultancy.

• Full UK driving licence, or active progress towards obtaining one, to facilitate travel to survey locations.

• Membership or eligibility to join CIEEM.

• Experience undertaking ecological surveys, familiarity with UKHab survey methodologies, knowledge of Biodiversity Net Gain principles, protected species survey experience and GIS or ecological mapping skills.

The role is based from our Southampton or Abingdon office and supports hybrid working between office and home locations. Regular site work will be required throughout the survey season, including early mornings, evening surveys and occasional overnight stays where project requirements dictate. The position provides exposure to a diverse range of projects across the renewable energy, residential, commercial and infrastructure sectors.

In alignment with the Equality Act 2010, we will make reasonable adjustments to support candidates and employees requiring additional arrangements, including adaptations to work schedules, training approaches or the physical workspace. Please inform us if you need any accommodations during the recruitment process or in your day‑to‑day role.