Freshwater Ecologist (Analysis and Reporting team) - 32097

Freshwater Ecologist (Analysis and Reporting team) - 32097
1
South East
Wallingford
DEFRA GRP EA RED KITE HOUSE, OX10 8BD
Staff Grade 3
Permanent
Environment & Sustainability
Full Time
£29,751

13/11/2025, 23:55 hours

Basic Check
Are you passionate about protecting and understanding aquatic ecosystems? The Thames Area Analysis and Reporting Team is on the lookout for dedicated Freshwater Ecologists to join our mission in delivering essential ecological monitoring programs. From our labs and offices in Wallingford.

The core work is aquatic ecological surveying, species identification and analysing data to assess the changing environment. We also support pollution, drought and flooding incident response. The role is full of variety, there are many opportunities to build expertise, and we provide specialist training.

• Field work, undertaking ecological field surveys of aquatic plants, macroinvertebrates, algae, fish,,freshwater habitat and water quality.
• Expect to be Driving and boat use which are both parts of this exciting role
• In our laboratories we analyse samples of aquatic macroinvertebrates to mixed taxon level (including some to species) and identify algae.
• From offices, we monitor, record and interpret our range of data sets and write compelling reports to inform and influence partners, protecting the environment through advice, regulation and enforcement.
• Our working patterns are flexible, including working from home when appropriate. We develop our people, set clear objectives and commit to an inclusive, safe, fair and empowering culture.

The Environment Agency are fully committed to having an inclusive workforce to reflect the communities we serve. We don’t just talk about diversity; we seek it, embrace it and live it, for the benefit of our staff, our communities and our environment. Everyone starting in a new role will be welcomed into the team and given all the training and support needed.

Everyone that joins us is required to undertake training and participate in incident response duties when the need to respond arises. Further information on incident response can be found within your candidate pack.
Our officers help develop and schedule our monitoring programme, conduct surveys, analyse and report on quality-controlle data. We investigate environmental issues and our data underpins decision-making and delivering statutory responsibilities. Our induction, development and team-working will help you gain proficiency within the organisation and build on the strengths you bring to our team. Incident Response. All staff train to support our combined area response to a wide range of incidents including pollution, flooding, waste, drought.
This role requires an ecological technical degree or relevant freshwater ecology experience, including freshwater species identification, microscopy, dichotomous keys, and field survey methodologies for macroinvertebrates, plants, fish, and habitats. Core responsibilities involve conducting ecological surveys, operating telemetry, data management, interpretation, and reporting, with training provided for accreditation in river habitat survey, macroinvertebrate, and plant identification. Key behaviours include self-development, initiative, organization, adaptability, teamwork, and incident response. Safety is paramount, with specific training in water safety provided. A valid full UK driving license is required. A strong commitment to safety and understanding of working in and around water are essential.
Whilst we operate flexi time working, this is an office based role so you will primarily need to be present in the office for laboratory work or out in the field for the workweek. Interviews for this role are expected to begin from December. For further information about the role please contact Ian Dean Environmental Monitoring Analysis and Reporting Team Leader by email at ian.dean@environment-agency.gov.uk
Works in Teams
Works co-operatively as part of a team to achieve common goals. Give an example of when you have developed and maintained good working relationships within your current/last role.
Achieves Results
Sets and delivers high work standards, demonstrates the drive to meet targets. Prioritises and organises tasks and resources to ensure timely achievement of results. Can you describe a time where you have worked with others on a challenging project or piece of work and explain what the challenges were?
Communicates Effectively
Listens and questions to understand and engage. Conveys information and ideas clearly, accurately and persuasively through speech and writing. Give an example of when you have had to tailor your communication style to a specific individual/situation?
Manage your environmental impact
Can you describe your previous experience with monitoring and assessment activities, including specific tools or methods you've used and how they contributed to project goals?
If you are applying from the Civil Service please note that the Environment Agency is not a part of HM Civil Service and you would not be a Crown Servant in the event of being appointed. Therefore, you will not be eligible for continuous service. For applicants who currently work in local government or other bodies listed in the Redundancy Payments (Continuity of Employment in Local Government etc) (Modification) Order 1999, you may be eligible for continuous service for the purpose of calculating any future redundancy payment. If you are unsure of your status then you should contact your own HR Team.

We are fully committed to having a diverse and inclusive workforce to reflect the communities we serve. We welcome flexible working patterns for all our vacancies, including job share, so please include clearly any information regarding your preferred working arrangements on your application.

We also have a Guaranteed Interview Policy to support those with a disability who are seeking employment. We have committed to guaranteeing an interview to anyone with a disability whose application meets the minimum criteria for the post.

The Environment Agency, as a Non-Departmental Public Body, is committed to providing value for money and utilises Central Government frameworks and contracts for all external recruitment needs. For this reason, we are unable to engage with the market directly through post, email or phone calls . Should you wish to become a support supplier on one of these frameworks or contracts please visit https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/become-a-crown-commercial-service-supplier/becoming-a-supplier-through-the-crown-commercial-service-what-you-need-to-know for more information.

Artificial intelligence can be a useful tool to support your application, however, all examples and statements provided must be truthful, factually accurate and taken directly from your own experience. Where plagiarism has been identified (presenting the ideas and experiences of others, or generated by artificial intelligence, as your own) applications may be withdrawn and internal candidates may be subject to disciplinary action. Although the Environment Agency is a non-departmental public body sponsored by Defra, we subscribe to and align with the candidate guidance on the use of artificial intelligence found on the  Civil Service Careers website. Please review for more information on appropriate and inappropriate use.

This Vacancy is closed to applications.