Join to apply for the Aquatic Ecologist role at Southern Water

Closing Date: 2025-09-26

Job Title: Aquatic Ecologist

Location: Falmer (Sussex) (with travel across a variety of sites) - hybrid working model

Salary: around £45,000 depending on experience

About The Role

Are you passionate about protecting aquatic ecosystems while enabling sustainable infrastructure development? Southern Water is seeking a skilled and driven Aquatic Ecologist to join our Enabling Team within ETS. You’ll play a pivotal role in delivering robust ecological risk management across a diverse portfolio of water, wastewater, and network projects—from design conception to construction completion.

This is a dynamic position that blends fieldwork, technical expertise, stakeholder engagement, and strategic thinking. You’ll help shape the future of ecological resilience in the region while identifying opportunities to enhance the natural environment.

Key Responsibilities

Safety & Environment

• Champion health and safety best practices across all project phases
• Develop and implement H&S strategies, including risk assessments
• Ensure compliance with environmental and sustainability standards

Technical Delivery

• Lead and support aquatic ecology surveys and assessments
• Provide ecological input into permitting, compliance, and infrastructure projects
• Design mitigation strategies and contribute to ecological enhancement initiatives
• Collaborate with engineers, project managers, and environmental advisors
• Manage aquatic ecology deliverables within budget and timeline

Innovation & Continuous Improvement

• Research and apply innovative ecological solutions
• Support Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) initiatives, including River Condition Assessments

Stakeholder Engagement

• Build strong relationships with regulators, partners, and internal teams
• Communicate ecological risks and solutions effectively

Financial & Commercial

• Prepare cost estimates and support TOTEX-efficient project delivery
• Make informed decisions balancing ecological integrity and business needs

Essential Qualifications & Experience

• Degree (BSc/MSc) in Ecology, Environmental Science, or related field
• Membership of CIEEM, IFM, or equivalent professional body
• Proven experience in aquatic ecology within the water or infrastructure sector
• Proficiency in electric fishing, macroinvertebrate sampling (TL3), or macrophyte surveys
• Strong understanding of UK environmental legislation and permitting

Desirable

• Experience with MoRPh surveys and River Condition Assessments
• Familiarity with GIS and ecological data analysis
• Knowledge of BNG principles and application

Skills & Attributes

• Excellent report writing and presentation skills
• Strong organisational and time management abilities
• Collaborative mindset with the ability to work independently
• Confident decision-maker with a proactive approach
• Full UK driving licence

Why Join Us?

At Southern Water, we’re committed to protecting the environment while delivering essential services. You’ll be part of a multidisciplinary team that values innovation, sustainability, and professional growth. We offer a supportive work culture, flexible working arrangements, and opportunities for continued development.

How To Apply

Submit your CV and cover letter via our careers portal.