Freshwater Ecologist

Are you a freshwater ecologist who wants your work to make a practical, lasting difference? Morphum Environmental is seeking a motivated Freshwater Ecologist to join our Auckland team.

This is an opportunity to contribute to a broad and interesting mix of environmental work while developing your expertise in a cross-functional, highly collaborative consultancy. You will work closely with our principals and senior scientists through day-to-day project delivery, fieldwork, technical problem-solving and review. That direct exposure creates genuine opportunities to learn on the job and progressively take on greater responsibility.

About Morphum

Morphum Environmental works with changemakers to restore balance and enhance natural ecosystems. Our integrated team brings together environmental science, engineering, GIS and sustainability expertise to develop pragmatic, adaptable solutions that support resilient communities and sustainable outcomes for generations to come.

We are values-led and curious by nature. We care about doing work that matters, sharing knowledge generously and finding better ways to address complex environmental challenges.

The opportunity

As a Freshwater Ecologist, you will contribute to a diverse portfolio of projects and have scope to grow your skills across field assessment, monitoring, reporting and ecological impact assessment. The work will be varied, practical and connected to real environmental outcomes.

You will work within a multidisciplinary team, collaborating with ecologists, environmental scientists, environmental engineers and GIS/FME analysts. You will also have regular access to senior technical leaders who will support your development, challenge your thinking and help you build confidence as an ecological professional.

Depending on your experience and interests, your work may include freshwater and wetland assessments, stream ecological valuation, ecological monitoring, field surveys, technical reporting, peer review and ecological impact assessments. There will be opportunities to contribute to wider ecological work and develop complementary skills across vegetation, fauna, wetland ecology and geomorphology.

About you

You are an engaged and capable ecologist who enjoys combining sound science with practical problem-solving. You have a strong interest in freshwater environments and are ready for a role that will broaden your experience and accelerate your development.

You will bring:

• A Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Ecology or a closely related discipline, or equivalent experience.

• At least three years’ relevant experience, ideally including environmental consultancy.

• A sound understanding of New Zealand ecology, including plant identification and a range of field methods and survey techniques. Experience with Stream Ecological Valuations, Rapid Habiat Assessments as well as stream/wetland classifications and delineations will be an advatageExperience undertaking field assessments and preparing clear, high-quality technical reports and ecological impact assessments.

• Knowledge of New Zealand resource management legislation, policy and practice.

• Collaborative team work, providing peer reviews (internal and external), sharing expert knowledge and experience.

• Strong environmental values, sound judgement and a genuine commitment to sustainable outcomes.

• A willingness to share knowledge, learn from others and continue building your understanding of mātauranga Māori, diversity, equity and inclusion, and low-carbon practice.

Permit or competencies for bat or lizard handling would also be welcomed but is not essential.

Why Morphum?

At Morphum, you will join a team that values both strong project outcomes and the people who deliver them. We offer an environment where questions are encouraged, good ideas can be tested, and people are trusted to contribute.

Alongside a broad range of work and meaningful mentoring from experienced practitioners, we offer flexible working arrangements, a work-from-home policy, a professional development budget and a sustainable transport subsidy. We actively support your learning and growth.

We believe social change is strengthened through diversity, equity and inclusion. As proud members of Diversity Works and Diversity Agenda, we are committed to building a diverse workforce and an inclusive workplace.

Apply

If you are ready to deepen your freshwater ecology experience, work on projects with real environmental impact and learn alongside experienced practitioners, we would like to hear from you.

Please submit your CV and a cover letter outlining your relevant experience and interest in New Zealand freshwater ecology here.

Morphum Environmental provides equal employment opportunities and welcomes applications from everyone who can meet the role requirements.

Freshwater Ecologist | Tāmaki Makaurau | Auckland

Join Morphum Environmental and help deliver practical, science-led solutions for healthier freshwater environments. You will work across a varied portfolio of projects, collaborating directly with our principals and senior specialists while building your capability through meaningful day-to-day mentoring. If you bring three or more years’ ecology experience, a strong grounding in New Zealand freshwater and terrestrial ecology, and a desire to create sustainable outcomes, we would like to hear from you.