Graduate Ecologist

United Utilities is seeking a Graduate Ecologist to join their Planning, Landscape, Ecology and Access team. This is a 3-year graduate scheme.

What You'll Do

As a Graduate Ecologist, you will play a key role in helping United Utilities deliver major investment projects while protecting and enhancing the natural environment. You will support ecological assessments and environmental surveys, working with experienced ecologists, planners, landscape architects, and environmental specialists.

Key responsibilities include:

• Supporting the delivery of ecological surveys, habitat assessments, and environmental studies for water and wastewater projects.
• Assisting with the identification and management of ecological constraints, including protected species, priority habitats, and Biodiversity Net Gain requirements.
• Working with project teams to ensure environmental risks are identified and managed.
• Reviewing ecological reports, mitigation proposals, and environmental management plans.
• Building relationships with internal teams and external organisations such as Natural England, local planning authorities, and the Environment Agency.
• Supporting site visits and occasional field surveys.
• Representing the ecology team at project meetings and community engagement events.
• Developing skills towards professional membership and chartership with the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM), with structured training and mentoring.
• Collaborating with the wider graduate network and learning about the water industry and sustainable infrastructure.

What You'll Bring

• A passion for ecology, biodiversity conservation, and the natural environment.
• A degree in Ecology or a related discipline (Environmental Science, Biological Sciences, Conservation, Zoology, Environmental Management).
• Understanding of UK wildlife legislation, protected species, and habitat conservation principles.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to build positive relationships and work effectively in multidisciplinary teams.
• Proactive approach to learning, problem-solving, and workload management.
• Good organisational skills.
• A full UK driving licence or the ability to obtain one.

Benefits

• Starting salary of at least £32,250 per annum with an annual pay review.
• £2,000 joining bonus.
• 37 hours per week.
• 26 days annual leave, increasing to 30 days after 4 years, plus bank holidays.
• Enhanced maternity and paternity leave policies.
• Up to 14% employer pension contribution.
• Access to colleague wellbeing programmes and dedicated mentors.
• Up to £500 contribution towards driving lessons and tests.

Key Dates

• Applications close: 21st October 2026.
• Interviews: 17th November to 11th December 2026.

Important Information

• This role is not eligible for visa sponsorship.
• Please apply for only one Graduate role per recruitment year.