Five Years at e2m
This month marks 5 years since Jess joined the team, now a Senior Ecologist, Jess’s career reflects the value of experience, continuity and the impact long‑term team members have on both projects and culture.
From graduate to senior ecologist
Jess began her career with a strong academic foundation, completing degrees in Zoology and Geography, followed by honours research on acid frogs, and later a master’s in environmental management.
After university, she spent time working within a large engineering consultancy, gaining exposure to major projects and multidisciplinary teams. While that experience was valuable, Jess was drawn to a smaller environment – one that offered closer collaboration, greater access to fieldwork and the chance to see projects through from start to finish, this led her to e2m – then a team of 20, where she joined as a graduate ecologist.
From the outset, Jess was exposed to a wide range of work, supporting field surveys, desktop assessments and project delivery.
“You learn very quickly that the details matter,” Jess says. “Small mistakes can snowball if they’re not picked up early.”
Over time, Jess progressed into project management roles, working on large and complex projects, including the Woodstock Solar Farm and the Narrabri Gas Project. These projects required adaptability, attention to detail and the ability to manage evolving requirements, new survey methods and complex approvals pathways – experiences that strengthened both her technical capability and confidence.
Culture, collaboration and flexibility
A consistent theme in Jess’s experience at e2m has been the culture of open communication and support.
The ability to ask questions, discuss issues openly, and work through challenges collaboratively has been central to her development.
“You’re never made to feel like you shouldn’t ask a question,” Jess says. “That openness makes the work better.”
Jess’s five years at e2m have also included major life changes – relocating, transitioning to remote work and taking maternity leave.
Well before flexible work became standard practice, e2m supported working‑from‑home arrangements that reduced long commutes and allowed work to better fit around life outside the office.
After taking just under a year of maternity leave, Jess returned to work part‑time.
“The team had grown and things had changed, but the culture hadn’t,” she says. “There’s genuine understanding and flexibility.”
Adjusting hours around childcare and gradually finding a new rhythm was made easier through practical support from colleagues and leadership – helping Jess transition back to her role.
Five years on
Jess’s journey at e2m highlights the importance of mentorship, flexibility and meaningful work – not just in building careers, but in retaining experience and delivering better outcomes.
We’re proud to recognise Jess’s five years at e2m, and we look forward to the next stage of her journey with the team.
