Hydroecology Technical Lead

Join to apply for the Hydro ecology Technical Lead role at WSP in the UK & Ireland
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At WSP, you can access our global scale, contribute to landmark projects, and connect with the brightest minds in your field to do the best work of your life. You can embrace curiosity in a culture that celebrates new ideas and diverse perspectives, shaping a unique career.

The team works on freshwater projects: sustainable abstraction studies, river restoration schemes, ecological impact assessments, and ecological monitoring programmes. Collaboration occurs with in‑house catchment science and fluvial geomorphology experts to meet client and regulatory requirements. Projects are UK‑based with international scope.

Senior applied aquatic ecologist or hydro‑ecologist needed for AMP8 WINEP projects. The postholder will be an experienced hydro‑ecologist with a track record of delivering water industry projects. The role requires a thorough understanding of UK regulatory context (Water Framework Directive, Habitats Regulations) and experience preparing ecological assessment reports. Ideally, the candidate will have managed aquatic and hydro‑ecology projects, including monitoring budgets and coordinating staff resources.

• Delivery of hydro‑ecological investigations for water industry clients, providing specialist aquatic ecological input.
• Analysis and interpretation of biological and hydrometric data, including biotic indices for impacts from abstraction.
• Design and delivery of aquatic ecological monitoring programmes.
• Preparation and delivery of interpretive technical reports for stand‑alone studies and collaborations.
• Preparation of tender outputs for medium‑ and large‑scale hydro‑ecology projects, including fee estimates.
• Building and maintaining a strong internal and external technical profile through networks and external engagement.

• Extensive professional experience within consultancy, regulatory, or industry roles.
• Clear understanding of regulatory drivers (Water Framework Directive, Habitats Regulations) in water resources contexts.
• Proficiency in statistical analysis and programming languages such as R.
• Experience interrogating ecological data (macroinvertebrate, macrophyte, fish) to assess impacts of abstraction and other pressures.
• Enthusiastic, confident, positive approach with excellent communication and reporting skills.

• Hybrid working: two days a week from home with modern office collaboration in the UK.
• Work‑life balance focus with flexible schedules and paid time off.
• Health & wellbeing support via the Thrive programme, Virtual GP service, Gymflex scheme, and menopause support package.
• Flexible working arrangements, part‑time options, and leave accrual.
• Development and training opportunities, mentoring, and chartership support.
• Diversity and inclusion: WSP welcomes applicants of all backgrounds and supports disabled candidates.

Mid‑Senior level

Full‑time

Engineering and Information Technology

Professional Services

WSP welcomes applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital status, pregnancy or maternity/paternity. As a Disability Confident leader, we interview all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria and provide workplace adjustments to support your application.