Ecologist and Field Survey Co-ordinator

UKCEH is looking for an Ecologist and Survey Coordinator, to join our talented team of individuals, contributing to scientific discovery and generating the data, insights and solutions that researchers, businesses and governments need to solve complex environmental challenges. 

Working at UKCEH is rewarding. Our science makes a real difference, enabling people and the environment to prosper, and enriching society. We are the custodians of a wealth of environmental data, collected by UKCEH and its predecessors over the course of more than 60 years.  

As a valued member of our team, you’ll get: 

• 27 days annual leave, rising to 29 days after five years, plus 3 days for our Christmas closure  

• 10% employer pension contribution 

• Enhanced maternity and paternity leave (subject to qualifying requirements) 

• 24 hour, 365-day access to support with physical, mental, social, health or financial issues plus access to our trained Welfare Officers 

• Flexible working opportunities 

And much more... 

Are you passionate about understanding biodiversity, keen to work outdoors surveying across a variety of habitats and landscapes, and enthusiastic in communicating with a wide range of stakeholders? 

We are recruiting for an Ecologist and Survey Co-ordinator to join our dynamic Biodiversity and Land Use department, playing a vital part in a high-profile project monitoring biodiversity at landscape-scales (https://www.ceh.ac.uk/our-science/projects/landspaes). 

You'll independently carry out ecological surveys, with a focus on recording plant species and habitats, to collect high quality scientific data. You will play an integral role in survey co-ordination and management, including liaising with landowners and other stakeholders. There will be opportunities to further develop your taxonomic skills, and to develop other skills such as data management and spatial analysis. 

Your main responsibilities will include: 

• Accurately recording botanical and habitat data in the field, following scientific protocols. 

• Supporting the delivery of a large survey, by liaising with land-owners over access, helping to coordinate and train teams of surveyors, and contributing to a range of coordination tasks.  

• Maintain UKCEH’s reputation with the farming community, wider public and other stakeholders. 

• Laboratory work, including sorting insect samples and developing insect identification skills. 

• Contributing to data management and basic statistical and GIS analyses, to support writing of reports and papers. 

• Actively taking opportunities to continue developing field and laboratory skills in order to contribute further to science projects across the Biodiversity and Land Use science area at UKCEH. 

• This role will require staying away for survey work across England, for extended periods at a time. 

This is a highly collaborative role and would suit someone who enjoys a varied workload, is flexible and independent, resourceful in problem-solving, and with excellent organisational skills. 

For the role of Ecologist and Survey co-ordinator, we’re looking for somebody who has: 

• A good undergraduate degree (2:1) or Masters level qualification in ecology, biological science or a related subject.

• Demonstrable knowledge of identifying higher plants to species level in the field. 

• Experience of collecting accurate data in the field, across a range of UK habitats, with experience of Safe Systems of Work in the field/Lone Working Safety. 

• Strong communication skills, and experience of successful liaison or engagement with stakeholder groups (e.g. landowners, citizen scientists, funders). 

• Experience of taking responsibility for the delivery of administrative tasks or parts of projects. 

• Willingness to suggest solutions to problems and ideas for improvement, and knows when to seek advice and guidance. 

• Strong team-working and practical skills. 

• A full driving licence is essential, as well as a willingness to be away from home overnight for extended periods while surveying at across England. 

• Due to the nature of the role, it is important to have a good level of physical fitness as you will be required to carry heavy equipment. 

Desirable skills:

• Experience of GIS / mapping software and spatial analysis.
• Experience of recording some insect groups in the field, or enthusiasm to learn these skills.
• Previous experience working within an environmental, academic, scientific or research environment.
• Experience of report writing.
• Off-road (4x4) driving experience

This Research Associate position creates the opportunity for greater professional development within your first 3 years in post. Allocated development time is structured with a tailored training plan to enhance your skills, knowledge, and experience in an area of science we are seeking to grow. Alongside on-the-job training and self-guided learning, you’ll have access to online resources and in-person training course. 

What training can we offer you? 

Training will be tailored according to your existing skills and interests, and could include: 

• Increased skills in ecological surveying and insect identification 

• Data management and spatial analysis 

• Communication skills including presentation to academic and non-academic audiences. 

• Scientific writing including the opportunity to contribute to writing papers and reports. 

Interviews will be in person at UKCEH Wallingford and include a plant identification exercise.

Please note: Unfortunately, we are unable to offer visa sponsorship for this role.