Ecologist

Closing Date

2026-09-14

Job Title: Terrestrial Ecologist

Location: Falmer / Hybrid Working with site visits

Contract: Permanent, Full-Time

Salary: From £35,000 depending on experience

We're looking for a passionate Terrestrial Ecologist to join our Environment team, supporting the delivery of water, wastewater and infrastructure projects across the Southern Water region.

This is an exciting opportunity to undertake ecological surveys, assessments and reporting while working closely with Project Managers, Engineers and Environmental Advisors to ensure projects are delivered sustainably and in compliance with environmental legislation.

Key Responsibilities

• Undertake ecological surveys, assessments and site inspections.
• Collect, analyse and interpret ecological data.
• Prepare high-quality technical reports and ecological assessments.
• Support the delivery of cost-effective ecological solutions and mitigation strategies.
• Liaise with project teams, contractors, stakeholders and environmental regulators.
• Support the management of ecology subcontractors where required.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety and environmental procedures.
• Deliver work to agreed timescales and support project programme requirements.
• Contribute to continuous improvement and professional development initiatives.
• Travel to sites across the region, including occasional early morning, evening and weekend survey work.

What We're Looking For

• Degree in Ecology, Environmental Science or a related discipline.
• Full UK driving licence.
• Good working knowledge of GIS and Microsoft Office.
• Strong organisational, communication and report-writing skills.
• Ideally one or more protected species licences
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Understanding of ecological legislation, survey techniques and environmental best practice.
• Proactive problem-solving skills and a commitment to continuous development.

Why Join Us?

You'll be part of a collaborative team helping to protect and enhance the environment while delivering essential infrastructure projects. In return, we offer excellent development opportunities, flexible working and the chance to make a meaningful impact across our region.

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 senior professionals can make a meaningful impact, influence major strategic decisions, and drive long-term value creation

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 are keen to be contacted about opportunities at Southern Water, you can register your details here: Introduce Yourself (myworkdaysite.com- Introduce Yourself)

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.

Additional information:

In line with Southern Water’s security requirements, successful candidates will be required to provide evidence of their identity, eligibility to work in the UK, criminal record check (DBS) and verification of their employment and/or education history for the past three years.

Appointment to this role is subject to the successful completion of all pre‑employment checks, including security vetting.

Please note that if a candidate does not meet the required security standards or fails to pass the vetting process, Southern Water reserves the right to withdraw the offer of employment. Some positions may also require higher levels of security vetting, which may involve providing additional documentation.

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