Graduate Ecologist

Company Description

At AECOM, our Nature team is helping to deliver ecological inputs to some of the UK's most significant infrastructure, renewable energy, water, and environmental projects. As a Graduate Ecologist within our Enterprise Capability (EC) Team, you will play a key role in supporting ecology projects while developing the technical, analytical and consultancy skills needed for a successful career in ecological consulting.

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. 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.

Start here. Grow here.

Job Description

Are you passionate about ecology and looking to launch your career with one of the world's leading infrastructure and environmental consultancies?

Here’s what you’ll do:

As a Graduate 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. 

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:

• Structured training and mentoring from experienced ecologists.
• A personalised development plan tailored to your career goals.
• Exposure to major UK infrastructure and renewable energy projects.
• Opportunities to develop technical expertise in biodiversity, ecological assessment and environmental legislation.
• A collaborative and inclusive culture where your ideas and contributions are valued.
• A clear pathway for career progression within a global organisation.

You will be managed by one of our experienced ecologists based in the UK who will be responsible for allocating your day-to-day workload and mentoring you to support your career development.

Here’s what we’re looking for:

• Passion for ecology and environmental conservation.
• Good understanding of core ecological principles, including:
• The scientific method
• Mitigation hierarchy
• Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG)
• Biodiversity offsetting
• 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.

Qualifications

• Undergraduate degree in Ecology, Biology, Conservation Biology, Wildlife Conservation, Environmental Science or a related subject
• 0 - 4 years work experience in related field
• 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.

Additional Information

At AECOM, you will have freedom to grow in a world of opportunity

At AECOM, our Freedom to Grow philosophy supports flexibility and balance to help our people thrive. As part of this approach, we ask all hybrid employees to work from an AECOM office at least three days per week.

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 aecom.com. 

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.