The Role (max 300 words)

The Environment Agency are fully committed to having an inclusive workforce to reflect the communities we serve. We don't just talk about diversity; we seek it, embrace it, and live it, for the benefit of our staff, our communities, and our environment.

We are looking for an enthusiastic and passionate freshwater ecologist to help create, analyse and report data on the ecological health of the aquatic environment in the East Midlands.

You will carry out a range of tasks, including:

• Analysing invertebrate samples to mixed-taxon level
• Using a range of databases to enter and extract data
• Analysing data and writing reports
• Working with internal teams and external stakeholders to influence and deliver projects with environmental benefits
• Plant surveys in rivers and lakes
• River Habitat Surveys (RHS)
• Responding to pollution incidents

You should be willing to undertake specialist training where necessary.

We work flexibly but you will need to carry out laboratory and field-based duties as required. You will therefore work in our Trentside laboratory in Nottingham to sort and identify invertebrate samples which will form part of your workload. You will also be involved in fieldwork and partnership working across Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire and Leicestershire. At other times you may have the opportunity to work from home.

 This role requires a Full UK Driving Licence.

Participation in incident response is expected, including drought, pollution and flooding.

You’ll join our Analysis and Reporting Team. We’re part of the Operations Directorate.

We are an inclusive team of freshwater ecologists who provide a vital service in collecting, analysing and interpreting freshwater ecological data. We turn data into evidence to support the Environment Agency’s responsibilities in environmental management and in its ambition to create a better place for people, wildlife and the environment.

You will be educated to degree level or similar in an appropriate discipline, or have equivalent practical work experience (e.g. ecology, environmental sciences, biology).

You will be able to demonstrate knowledge and practical experience of the following:

• Freshwater ecological survey work
• An understanding of how water quality influences freshwater ecosystems
• Ability to analyse, interpret and communicate scientific information clearly to both a technical and non-technical audience
• Working proactively on your own and effectively within a team including mentoring others

Desirable skills:

• Identification of macroinvertebrates to mixed-taxon level
• Experience in macrophyte identification

It is expected that the person filling this role will:

• Encourage a positive health, safety & wellbeing culture
• Have the ability to work effectively with people from a variety of backgrounds and cultures and actively encourage others to consider diversity issues in their work.

You’ll have a range of development opportunities and appropriate training will be provided.

You’ll have an inclusive incident management objective in your development plan. We’ll help you find a role to suit your needs. Appropriate training will be given.

 You’re EA Office base location will be Trentside. You may have the opportunity to work from home when not required at your base location. Some travel and overnights may be required.

Please read the Candidate / Additional Information Pack for information. Any queries, contact [email protected]

Applications are “blind” assessed using your answers to the competency questions.

Interviews will be held face-to-face at the Trentside office within two weeks of the closing date.

If you consent to being held on a reserve list, we’ll hold your details for 6 months and may offer you an alternative post.