Ecologist

Closing Date

2025-12-05

Job Title: Ecologist

Location: Falmer (hybrid – Office and Site)

Contract Type: Permanent

Hours: Full-time (37 hours per week)

Salary: Up to £45,000

About the role

We are looking for an Ecologist to join our Enabling Team within ETS. You will support a wide range of water and wastewater projects by providing ecological risk management, technical input and practical advice. This role offers a mix of fieldwork, survey support, reporting and stakeholder engagement. You’ll work closely with Project Managers, Engineers and Environmental Advisors to ensure designs, maintenance and construction activities meet ecological and regulatory requirements.

This is a collaborative team with strong technical expertise, offering opportunities to work on complex ecological challenges and contribute to sustainable solutions across Southern Water.

What you will be responsible for:

• Supporting ecological input into the design, planning and delivery of projects across Water, Wastewater and Networks.
• Leading or assisting with ecological surveys, assessments and report writing.
• Providing practical advice to Project Managers and Engineers to manage ecological risks during planning, construction and maintenance.
• Coordinating with the Principal Ecologist and subcontractors, including supplier selection and performance management.
• Preparing accurate ecological assessments, mitigation strategies and recommendations.
• Managing ecological project activities to ensure compliance, cost‑effectiveness and timely delivery.
• Engaging with stakeholders and environmental regulators to secure buy‑in and ensure compliance.

Additional Requirements:

• Fieldwork will include early mornings, evenings and occasional weekends.
• Travel across the region — a full driving licence is required.

What you’ll bring to the role:

Essential

• 3–4 years post‑university experience in ecology.
• Experience conducting ecological surveys and providing independent technical advice.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to engage effectively with technical and non‑technical stakeholders.
• Degree in ecology, biology, environmental science or a related field.
• Strong organisational skills and ability to manage workload independently.
• Competent in MS Office, reporting and field data collection.

Desirable

• Post‑graduate qualification in an ecological or environmental subject.
• Experience working in the water industry.
• Experience mentoring or supporting junior team members.
• Membership of CIEEM (Graduate/Associate) or working toward full membership.
• Survey licences for protected species.

About Southern Water

Southern Water is at the forefront of transforming Britain’s water industry, investing significantly to enhance resilience, sustainability, and service excellence. With £7.8bn planned investment for 2025–30, this is an unparalleled opportunity to join a business committed to delivering a generational shift in the way water services are managed.

You will be joining at a time of significant change, working alongside a highly skilled leadership team with a clear vision for the future. We offer an environment where professionals can make a meaningful impact, influence major strategic decisions, and drive long‑term value creation.

Inclusive & Empowering Statement

At Southern Water, we believe diverse perspectives drive innovation. If you’re passionate about making a positive impact and think you can bring value to our team, we’d love to hear from you — even if you don’t tick every box. Your unique skills and experiences could be exactly what we need.

If this role isn’t quite what you’re looking for but you’d like to stay connected, you can register your details here:

Introduce Yourself: https://wd3.myworkdaysite.com/en-US/recruiting/southernwater/SouthernWater/introduceYourself

Our Commitment to Diversity

We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, identities and experiences. We do not discriminate based on race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, religion or any other protected characteristic. If you need reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know.

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