Job Description

Location: Roermond, Netherlands
Working Hours: 32 hours per week
Contract Period: August 2026 – December 2027 (extension possible)

We are seeking an experienced Ecology Advisor with expertise in water quality and aquatic ecology to support projects focused on improving and protecting ecological water quality. The role involves advising on strategic ecological issues related to waterways, water quality, and environmental restoration measures.

The successful candidate will contribute to projects associated with water quality improvement programs and ecological restoration initiatives, ensuring compliance with environmental legislation and ecological objectives.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide specialist ecological advice on water quality and aquatic ecosystems.
• Support the development and implementation of ecological measures within water infrastructure projects.
• Advise on designs, technical specifications, and requirements for wet infrastructure and aquatic ecology.
• Assess designs and requirements against applicable legislation, policies, and technical guidelines.
• Identify technical, environmental, and project risks and propose suitable mitigation measures.
• Evaluate delivery and handover documentation.
• Coordinate with project teams, consultants, contractors, and external stakeholders.
• Contribute to sustainable, innovative, and environmentally integrated solutions.
• Consider aspects such as ecology, water quality, water quantity, landscape integration, and maintenance requirements.

Required Qualifications

• HBO (Higher Professional Education) level or equivalent in Ecology or a related field.
• Strong knowledge of aquatic ecology and water quality.
• Excellent Dutch language skills, both written and spoken.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively within multidisciplinary teams.
• Willingness to comply with integrity and confidentiality requirements.

Preferred Experience

• Experience with feasibility studies and implementation of measures within national waterway systems.
• Knowledge of the Water Framework Directive (WFD) and nature conservation legislation.
• Experience with river system management methodologies.
• Experience working within large public infrastructure or water management environments.
• Familiarity with ecological restoration and environmental improvement projects.

Key Competencies

• Analytical thinking
• Team collaboration
• Proactive approach
• Project-oriented working style
• Pragmatic problem-solving
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills
• Persuasiveness and advisory capability
• Awareness of organizational dynamics and stakeholder interests

Working Environment

The role involves working within a multidisciplinary technical project team alongside consultants, engineers, and environmental specialists. Regular coordination with project stakeholders and external partners is required, with a hybrid working arrangement and periodic on-site presence expected.