Aquatic Ecological Consultant

Join us in shaping a future where nature and business thrive together

At Thomson, our purpose is simple but powerful: to enable nature and business to thrive together.

We’re building a reputation as the UK’s most innovative, pragmatic and fast-growing environmental consultancy. Our ambition is to be the first choice for clients and the employer of choice for environmental professionals.

With offices across the UK, our multidisciplinary experts deliver exceptional outcomes across terrestrial and freshwater ecology, hydrology, marine science, GIS, habitat management, arboriculture and environmental impact assessment.

We are seeking an aquatic consultant to join our dynamic Water team. You will be responsible for managing and delivering complex aquatic projects - leading surveys, conducting data analysis, and preparing technical reports. As a technical expert, you will produce accurate, concise reports and environmental assessments to meet regulatory and investigatory standards in riverine and estuarine environments.

Surveys will include but won’t be limited to; macroinvertebrates, fish, habitat and water quality surveys of rivers and lakes. If you are a motivated and skilled professional looking to make a significant impact and develop your career, we invite you to apply and join our growing team.

The role can be based anywhere across England or Wales.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and deliver aquatic ecology and/ or hydrology projects, including macroinvertebrate surveys and consenting projects with supporting environmental assessments.
• Produce high quality reporting and assessment deliverables for clients, within allocated time and budget constraints.
• Coordinate field surveys, liaise with clients and landowners, and ensure compliance with Thomson’s methods.
• Assist in business development by preparing tenders, quotes, and supporting revenue growth.
• Stay updated on ecology / hydrology relevant legislation and survey techniques, for continuous professional development.

Example field project deliverables: preliminary ecological appraisals, ecological clerk of works, macroinvertebrate and water quality monitoring, fish surveys, modular river habitat surveys, water level monitoring and flow gauging.

Example environmental assessments: nutrient neutrality assessments, Water Framework Directive assessments, Habitat Regulations Assessments, Environmental Impact Assessments, Marine Plan Policy Assessments, Flood Risk Assessments, Flood Risk Activity Permits and Marine License Applications.

Example project objectives: Water Restoration Fund studies, habitat compensation studies, habitat surveys to inform BNG for fish pass projects, drought permit monitoring, storm overflow assessment, surveys and assessments to support planning and consent requirements.

Required Qualifications & Experience:

• Proven experience in aquatic ecology, hydro-ecology, or related fields.
• Strong technical knowledge of ecology / hydro-ecology survey techniques, assessments, legislation, and project management.
• Full, clean UK driving licence and ownership / access to a car with business insurance.

Key Skills:

• Excellent communication and organisational skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and work independently.

Desirable Skills:

• Experience at Assistant Consultant or Consultant level in environmental consultancy.
• Expertise in biological indices and surveys to assess aquatic ecosystem health, including macroinvertebrate surveys and analysis,
• Experience in hydro-ecology monitoring (water quality, water level, flow gauging).

Working at Thomson

At Thomson, we strive to be the very best at what we do—for our clients and for each other.

We believe in One Thomson: valuing every individual’s unique skills and experiences, and working together to deliver exceptional service.

Our people are our greatest asset. We are proud of our friendly, supportive and can-do culture, where nothing is too much trouble. We live and breathe our RISE values – Respect, Integrity, Support and Excellence—and we are constantly evolving, with your voice helping shape our future.

We actively promote a healthy work-life balance, offering flexibility and a supportive environment where people can thrive. We embrace new challenges, work collaboratively, and celebrate success together.

We are passionate about career development. You’ll have access to:

• Industry-accredited external training
• Specialist-led internal training
• Opportunities to work across disciplines
• The chance to contribute to and lead high-profile, once-in-a-lifetime projects

We also offer a competitive benefits package, including:

• 25 days annual leave
• Healthcare cash plan
• Enhanced stakeholder pension scheme
• Life insurance
• Discounted gym membership
• Paid professional memberships
• Clothing allowance
• Performance-related rewards and long service awards
• Free parking
• Regular social and company events

We are also committed to giving back, with strong involvement in charity fundraising and local community initiatives.

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion

As an equal opportunities employer, Thomson is committed to the fair and equal treatment of all current and prospective employees. We do not tolerate discrimination of any kind.

We are building a diverse and inclusive workplace and strongly encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds. We believe diversity strengthens our team and enhances the work we do.

Ready to make a difference?

If you’re a skilled and motivated professional looking for a role where you can lead, influence and deliver meaningful environmental impact, we’d love to hear from you.

Apply today and be part of Thomson’s journey.

Adler and Allan are committed to fostering diversity and inclusion in our workplace. We proudly embrace equal opportunities for all applicants, regardless of race, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or national origin. If you require any support with your application, whatever the circumstance, please let us know.