At the Environment Agency we aspire for inclusivity to thrive in our workforce. We embrace equal opportunities and flexible work arrangements, ensuring everyone can contribute and succeed.
We’re looking for an experienced ecologist to work as an Environmental Monitoring Officer in our Analysis & Reporting team to help carry out our environmental monitoring and investigations programme. The role will include field based ecological survey work, laboratory analysis of ecological samples, data analysis, interpretation, and reporting.
This varied role will involve:
• Laboratory analysis of biological samples, including aquatic invertebrates to species level.
• Seasonal field based ecological, water quality, macrophyte, River Habitat Surveys and/or fisheries survey work across the whole area.
• Interpretation of field and laboratory data to report findings to our customers using both standard and bespoke computer applications.
• Supporting investigations into impacts of environmental pollution incidents.
The post is based at our Tyneside House, Newcastle Office, but covers the whole of the North East Area patch, so frequent travelling is required to undertake field work. Occasional remote or hybrid working is a possibility with this role.
The Environment Agency take part in incident response. Our new Inclusive Incident Management Policy has been developed to support all new starters to find an incident role to suit their individual needs and circumstances. Full training will be provided.
The team
Our friendly and dedicated Analysis and Reporting team collect, analyse, and interpret freshwater environmental data. The Team sits within the wider Water, Land and Biodiversity Operations Department.
We are skilled in monitoring fieldwork and lab work and use our expertise to assess a wide variety of ecology, water quality and fisheries data from a range of sources. Our customers rely on the evidence we provide to support the delivery of local and national environmental improvements
Experience/skills required
You will be an enthusiastic and self-motivated person with a genuine passion for the environment.
You will be qualified to at least degree level (or equivalent) or have a minimum of two years’ experience in a relevant discipline (e.g. ecology, environmental sciences, biology).
You must be trained in or have experience of:
Identification of freshwater macroinvertebrates/plants/fish
Freshwater ecology surveys (e.g. macrophyte surveys, fish surveys, river habitat surveys)
Data analysis and interpretation
Report writing
Training in survey techniques and identification will be available, although prior training and experience is highly desirable.
Experience using Excel and Word is essential. You need to be able to work effectively on your own and within a team and be able to produce clear written work.
You must possess a full driving licence and be able to swim confidently.