Consultant Aquatic Ecologist

Consultant Aquatic Ecologist – WSP UK & Ireland

Join WSP to apply for the Consultant Aquatic Ecologist role. This position is ideal for a freshwater ecologist or a marine ecologist looking to contribute to landmark projects across diverse sectors including low carbon, transport, water renewables, nuclear, power, waste, minerals and property.

We are looking for an experienced aquatic ecology practitioner who can lead at least one survey type (ideally fish surveys) and support a range of freshwater surveys (fish, macroinvertebrates, macrophytes, diatoms, water quality). The successful applicant will enjoy a caring team environment and flexible working options.

• Conduct field surveys across freshwater and/or marine environments.
• Support technical authoring of aquatic ecological assessments:
  Scoping reports, Preliminary Ecological Assessments (PEA), Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA), Habitats Regulations Assessments (HRA), Water Framework Directive Assessments (WFDA), Marine Strategy Framework Directive assessments and Marine Conservation Zone / Marine Protected Area assessments.
• Provide aquatic inputs across all project life‑cycles from bidding, feasibility, field survey planning, design and assessment.
• Support preparation of licence applications including marine licences and flood risk activity permits.
• Provide mentoring and support to less experienced team members.

What we are looking for:

• Professional experience: at least 2 years.
• Relevant degree (BSc or MSc) in an aquatic discipline (freshwater or marine biology).
• Knowledge of UK and European legislation on protected aquatic habitats and species, including the HRA process.
• Ability to support a range of aquatic survey types.
• Excellent report‑writing skills.
• Basic knowledge of EIA, HRA and WFDA.
• Experience in field survey design and conducting ecological surveys in freshwater and/or marine environments.
• Membership of CIEEM or equivalent body.

Don’t quite meet all the criteria? Apply, and we can see how your experience aligns with this role and other opportunities within the team.

Seniority level:
Mid‑Senior

Employment type:

Full‑time
Job function:
Consulting

We are an equal opportunity employer. Applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates are encouraged regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion, marital status, pregnancy or maternity/paternity. WSP will interview all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria; please let us know if you require workplace adjustments.