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Posted 12 June, 2026

Senior Marine & Aquatic Ecologist

Stantec
Perth, Western Australia, Australia Full Time
Reference: 55_459371_38126

Due to exciting growth in our Australian Environmental Business, we are looking for experienced Senior Marine and Aquatic Ecologists to work in our passionate Marine Science and Aquatic Ecology Team. We are interested in experienced aquatic scientists that can manage projects, lead surveys, undertake laboratory analysis, and write technical reports. You will also be a part of a broader national group with industry experts across aquatic ecology, marine ecology, terrestrial ecology, and environmental approvals disciplines, who are currently undertaking a range of exciting projects across the Asia Pacific Region.

About the role

Our Perth Environment Team provides strategic and practical solutions to clients with environmental challenges. We are currently seeking a Senior Marine and Aquatic Ecologist with marine or freshwater experience to join our team.

Based in our Perth office, the Marine Science and Aquatic Ecology Team is led by Emma McQuie, a Principal Environmental Scientist with over 11 years of experience in both marine and freshwater ecosystems. The team is comprised of leading experts in their field, with demonstrated experience in undertaking comprehensive baseline marine and aquatic ecology surveys, compliance monitoring, specialist analysis and identification (including algae, macrophytes, aquatic invertebrates and fish), technical reporting, and environmental impact assessments. We have a variety of current and upcoming exciting projects spanning across the Pilbara, Central Deserts, Mid-west, Goldfields, and Southwest regions of Western Australia, sampling waterbodies ranging from freshwater riverine habitats to coastal and offshore marine ecosystems.

Joining our Marine and Aquatic Ecology Team would involve the following day to day tasks:

  • Planning, leading and implementing marine and aquatic ecology projects

  • Intermittent field work surveying waterbodies in remote areas

  • Laboratory analysis and data management

  • Preparation of proposals and budgets to meet client and regulatory expectations

  • Managing project staff and mentoring junior staff

  • Undertaking environmental impact assessment

  • Technical report writing to a high scientific standard

  • Collaboration across various ecological disciplines (flora and vegetation, terrestrial fauna, marine science, environmental approvals, mine closure, and rehabilitation)

To be successful for this role you'll need:

Tertiary qualification in Freshwater Ecology / Biology, or Marine Science or equivalent

5 to 10 years' professional marine and aquatic ecology experience

Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of marine and aquatic ecology concepts

Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Well-developed field and technical skills, including leadership skills

Exceptional data management, analysis, and report writing skills

Ability to work well in a team environment

Taxonomic or specimen identification experience is desirable

Working knowledge of State and Commonwealth legislation and guidance, relevant to inland waters, is desirable

Interest in embracing innovation to continually improve our work

Eligibility to work in Australia with a current C class unrestricted (manual) drivers' licence

What we offer

Along with a competitive salary for commensurate skills and experience, we offer a number of benefits to ensure ongoing professional development and wellbeing including:

Ability to work with a highly experienced and friendly team, comprising dedicated aquatic scientists with a range of expertise, working on exciting projects

Penalty rates and time in lieu for extended field work in remote locations

Being part of a broader Environment and Geoscience team across Australia, with the opportunity to diversify your skill set nationally

Genuine Flexible Working Arrangements - including work from home opportunities

Option to purchase up to 4 weeks additional leave

Learning and Talent Development Programs - including global programmes, online learning and onthejob learning

Mentoring for your own development and the opportunity to mentor others

Social and professional clubs within Stantec to enhance connection, interactions and upskilling across Australia

Professional Registrations and Memberships

Salary Continuance Insurance (SCI)

Mental Health and Wellbeing Programs

Service Recognition Awards

Employee Referral Benefits

Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for employees and their immediate family members

About Stantec

The Stantec community unites over 30,000 employees working in over 450+ locations across six continents. We collaborate across disciplines and industries to bring buildings, energy, resources, water, environmental, transport, and infrastructure projects to life. Our work from initial project concept and planning through design, construction, and commissioning begins at the intersection of community, creativity, and client relationships.

Communities are fundamental. Whether around the corner or across the globe, they provide a foundation, a sense of place and of belonging. That's why at Stantec, we always design with community in mind. We care about the communities we serve - because they're our communities too. We're designers, engineers, scientists, and project managers, innovating together at the intersection of community, creativity, and client relationships. Balancing these priorities results in projects that advance the quality of life in communities across the globe.

Culture

Stantec is serious about healthy work-life balance, diversity, inclusion & equity, indigenous relations, innovation, community engagement, corporate sustainability, and social wellbeing. We have employee groups for women, LGBTQI+, neurodiversity, and more! Our employees play sport, fundraise, volunteer, learn, and have fun together.

How to apply

If this position is of interest, submit your application online.

#StantecEcologyAU

Please note that no agency applications will be accepted at this time.

  • Tertiary qualification in Freshwater Ecology / Biology, or Marine Science or equivalent
Additional Information

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