Assistant Ecologist – Global Nature Team

Job description

Shape the future of nature-positive infrastructure. Join AECOM's global Nature practice and contribute to some of the UK's most significant infrastructure, renewable energy, water and environmental programmes. As an Assistant Ecologist within our Enterprise Capability team, you will collaborate with internationally recognized experts, gain exposure to global best practice, and develop specialist skills in biodiversity, ecological assessment and nature-based solutions while helping deliver projects that create lasting environmental value. Applications are encouraged by recent graduates and early-career professionals seeking to build a long-term career in ecological and environmental consulting. Our Enterprise Capability team is a strategic extension of AECOM's global business, delivering services to multidisciplinary projects across the UK and other international markets. This is a unique opportunity to join a highly respected team of experts and gain exposure to nationally significant projects, including solar farms, energy infrastructure renewals, transport schemes, and water infrastructure upgrades. You will play a key role in supporting ecology projects while developing the technical, analytical and consultancy skills needed for a successful career in nature consulting. Unlike many graduate ecology roles, this position offers immediate exposure to internationally significant projects, multidisciplinary teams, and global environmental best practice. You will work directly with experienced ecologists, planners, engineers and landscape architects while building consulting skills that are highly valued across international environmental and sustainability markets. Working remotely as an integrated member of one of our regional ecology teams, you will receive structured training, mentoring and personalised career development support from experienced professionals dedicated to helping you succeed. Here’s what you’ll do As an Assistant Ecologist, you will contribute to a diverse range of ecological assessments and environmental projects by: Conducting desk-based ecological studies, including researching designated sites, habitats, and protected species records. Analysing ecological survey data, including bat audio recordings, infrared imagery, and thermal imaging outputs. Supporting Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) assessments and biodiversity offsetting calculations. Assisting in the preparation of Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIA), Habitats Regulations Assessments (HRA) and protected species reports. Supporting the development of protected species licence applications, habitat management plans, monitoring strategies and ecological mitigation measures. Helping coordinate ecological field surveys and supporting project delivery teams across the UK. Collaborating with multidisciplinary specialists in GIS, landscape architecture, environmental planning, water and engineering. You will also develop expertise in digital ecology tools and international assessment methodologies, including biodiversity metrics, GIS-enabled workflows, ecological data analysis, remote sensing technologies, AI-enabled processes, and global environmental standards. Come grow with us At AECOM, you'll be part of a thriving Nature business comprising more than 230 specialists across ecology, arboriculture, forestry, groundwater and surface water disciplines. Our team includes recognised industry leaders and technical experts who are shaping the future of environmental consultancy. You'll benefit from: Direct collaboration with ecological specialists across the UK and global regions. Exposure to nationally significant infrastructure, renewable energy, transportation and water projects. Structured technical learning through formal training programmes and mentoring. Access to global knowledge networks and subject matter experts. Opportunities to build long-term international consulting careers. A culture focused on sustainability, innovation and continuous learning. Clear progression pathways from Assistant Ecologist through to Specialist and Project Ecologist roles. This role is designed as an entry point into AECOM's global Nature practice. Successful candidates will have opportunities to develop into technical specialists, project ecologists and future environmental consulting leaders through structured development programmes and project experience. Qualifications Here’s what we’re looking for: Undergraduate degree in a related discipline such as: · Ecology · Environmental Science · Environmental Management · Zoology · Botany · Conservation Biology · Wildlife Sciences · Forestry · Natural Resource Management · Geography (Environmental) · Sustainability Studies · Earth and Environmental Sciences Or a related subject Passion for ecology and environmental conservation. Good understanding of core ecological principles, including: Ecological survey and assessment methods Ecological impact assessment principles Mitigation hierarchy Habitat management and restoration Ecosystem services and nature recovery concepts Knowledge of Biodiversity Net Gain and biodiversity offsetting approaches is advantageous but not essential. Desirable Familiarity with GIS platforms such as ArcGIS or QGIS. Exposure to ecological data analysis and reporting tools. Experience gained through internships, academic projects or research activities. Strong technical writing and report preparation skills. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a team environment. Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage priorities and work within project budgets. Experience of ecological consultancy, a knowledge of UK nature conservation legislation; and an understanding of UK habitats and protected species are desirable but not essential. We welcome candidates with strong ecological foundations and a willingness to learn international environmental consulting practices. At AECOM, we are committed to delivering a better world through sustainable infrastructure, environmental stewardship and climate resilience. We invest in our people through continuous learning, mentorship and opportunities to work on projects that make a positive difference to communities and ecosystems worldwide. About AECOM AECOM is proud to offer comprehensive benefits to meet the diverse needs of our employees. Depending on your employment status, AECOM benefits may include medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, disability benefits, paid time off, leaves of absences, voluntary benefits, perks, flexible work options, well-being resources, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, service recognition awards, retirement savings plan, and employee stock purchase plan. AECOM is the global infrastructure leader, committed to delivering a better world. As a trusted professional services firm powered by deep technical abilities, we solve our clients’ complex challenges in water, environment, energy, transportation and buildings. Our teams partner with public- and private-sector clients to create innovative, sustainable and resilient solutions throughout the project lifecycle – from advisory, planning, design and engineering to program and construction management. AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm that had revenue of $16.1 billion in fiscal year 2024. Learn more at . What makes AECOM a great place to work You will be part of a global team that champions your growth and career ambitions. Work on groundbreaking projects - both in your local community and on a global scale - that are transforming our industry and shaping the future. With cutting-edge technology and a network of experts, you’ll have the resources to make a real impact. Our award-winning training and development programs are designed to expand your technical expertise and leadership skills, helping you build the career you’ve always envisioned. Here, you’ll find a welcoming workplace built on respect, collaboration and community - where you have the freedom to grow in a world of opportunity. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we believe in your potential and are here to help you achieve it. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines. At AECOM, we are committed to maintaining a secure and trustworthy recruitment process and take any fraudulent hiring activity seriously. To support this commitment, all newly hired employees are required to attend an in-person Day 1 onboarding at an AECOM office location as a condition of employment. About AECOM AECOM is proud to offer comprehensive benefits to meet the diverse needs of our employees. Depending on your employment status, AECOM benefits may include medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, disability benefits, paid time off, leaves of absences, voluntary benefits, perks, flexible work options, well-being resources, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, service recognition awards, retirement savings plan, and employee stock purchase plan. AECOM is the global infrastructure leader, committed to delivering a better world. As a trusted professional services firm powered by deep technical abilities, we solve our clients’ complex challenges in water, environment, energy, transportation and buildings. Our teams partner with public- and private-sector clients to create innovative, sustainable and resilient solutions throughout the project lifecycle – from advisory, planning, design and engineering to program and construction management. AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm that had revenue of $16.1 billion in fiscal year 2025. Learn more at . What makes AECOM a great place to work You will be part of a global team that champions your growth and career ambitions. Work on groundbreaking projects - both in your local community and on a global scale - that are transforming our industry and shaping the future. With cutting-edge technology and a network of experts, you’ll have the resources to make a real impact. Our award-winning training and development programs are designed to expand your technical expertise and leadership skills, helping you build the career you’ve always envisioned. Here, you’ll find a welcoming workplace built on respect, collaboration and community - where you have the freedom to grow in a world of opportunity. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we believe in your potential and are here to help you achieve it. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines. Work with Us. Change the World. At AECOM, we're delivering a better world. Whether improving your commute, keeping the lights on, providing access to clean water, or transforming skylines, our work helps people and communities thrive. We are the world's trusted infrastructure consulting firm, partnering with clients to solve the world’s most complex challenges and build legacies for future generations. There has never been a better time to be at AECOM. With accelerating infrastructure investment worldwide, our services are in great demand. We invite you to bring your bold ideas and big dreams and become part of a global team of over 50,000 planners, designers, engineers, scientists, digital innovators, program and construction managers and other professionals delivering projects that create a positive and tangible impact around the world. We're one global team driven by our common purpose to deliver a better world. Join us.