Junior Aquatic Ecologist

Key Responsibilities

• Undertake aquatic biodiversity surveys, habitat assessments, and water quality monitoring.

• Identify, record, and analyse freshwater and/or estuarine species and habitats.
• Contribute to Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs), Basic Assessments, and related environmental reports.
• Analyse ecological data and produce scientifically robust, clear, and concise reports.
• Assist in developing aquatic ecosystem management and rehabilitation plans.
• Ensure compliance with environmental legislation, policies, and best-practice guidelines.
• Liaise with clients, regulatory authorities, and stakeholders as required.
• Execute field work according to accepted EcoClassification Methodologies (incl. MIRAI and FRAI), as well as other international best-practice standards.
• Conduct aquatic biomonitoring studies and support the baseline aquatic biodiversity assessments to inform impact assessments, management and/or monitoring plans.
• Participate in survey design, proposal scoping and costing, and business development and marketing activities.

Job Requirements

• BSc Hons / MSc degree in Aquatic Health or similar.
• SASS accredited
• 2–4 years’ proven experience in aquatic ecological assessments, preferably within a consultancy environment.
• Strong taxonomic skills for aquatic macroinvertebrates, fish, and/or aquatic plants.
• Proficiency in field sampling techniques and ecological data analysis.
• Basic understanding and practical experience with environmental legislation and National Water Act.
• Great report writing skills and ability describe the issues and propose solutions.
• Able to work with a 20 kg fish shocker (Smithroot/Halltech) in flowing systems.
• Must be a strong swimmer.
• Valid driver’s license and willingness to travel for fieldwork.
• Registration or eligibility for registration with SACNASP or equivalent.