Environmental Monitoring Assistant

Location: Bridgwater, TA6

Temporary 1st April 2025 - 30th September 2025, extension may be possible

Hourly rate: £12.52 per hour (overtime may be available)

Hours: 37 hours, 5 days a week (some weekend and Bank holiday work may be required)

The role: We are looking for an Environmental Monitoring Assistant to do field-based data collection and sampling. You may also support the team with fish surveys.

The team: This is a field team, who carries out routine chemical and ecological sampling and collection of environmental data throughout Somerset and the South West. This includes statutory ecological sampling of sea water, rivers and lakes, and chemical sampling of rivers, lakes, and bathing waters. During the summer months, the team sample water quality at numerous water sights and undertake fish monitoring.

Reporting to the Field Monitoring Team Leader, the successful candidates will be assisting in the delivery of this broad range of environmental monitoring.

The position involves outdoor work (in all weathers) and travelling throughout the county therefore a valid driving licence and the ability to swim is essential. The post holders may also be required to assist in some weekend work during the busy summer months on a rotational basis. The role is physically demanding and does include lifting and carrying samples.

Experience/skills requiredWe’re seeking a Field Monitoring Assistant with some field experience if possible, although not essential as full training is given. You’ll be qualified to at GCSE standard (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline.

Desirable Skills: To possess proven ability and/or knowledge of:

• Environmental monitoring instrumentation - water quality meter (full training will be given)
• Field-based data gathering experience.
• Analysis of environmental monitoring data.
• Navigational Skills - the ability to find your way around rural and urban areas
• Proficient in the use of Microsoft Office products.

Other key requirements for this job include excellent communication skills, proficiency in Word, Excel and database management, the ability to work alone or as part of a team. You should be able to manage your own time and workload effectively. An ambition to work in the environmental field will be seen as a positive.

Additional useful information

The role will be based out of Bridgwater with travel throughout Somerset and the South West. As a result, the post requires a full UK driving licence. The candidate also needs to be able to swim.