Ecologist
Ecologists study the relationship between plants, animals and the environment.
Typical Salary
£22,000 – £42,000
per year
Working Hours
37–41
hours per week
Day-to-day tasks
As an ecologist you might:
- analyse data on plants, animals and environmental conditions
- research the impact of activities like house building and farming on land and waterways
- create and manage wildlife conservation areas and restoration projects
- advise landowners and local authorities on ecological legal matters
- study the effects of changing insect populations on agriculture
- raise awareness of ecological issues in local communities and promote involvement in schemes
We've identified this as a green job
As an ecologist, you can restore woodlands and peatlands to help tackle climate change. This can have a positive impact on the environment.
Skills needed
- science skills
- maths knowledge
- analytical thinking skills
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- the ability to use your initiative
- excellent written communication skills
- legal knowledge including court procedures and government regulations
- persistence and determination
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently
Entry requirements
You may need a driving licence to visit fieldwork sites.
How to get into this role
You can get into this job through a university course or an apprenticeship.
Career progression
You can work for:
- local authorities
- conservation organisations
- government or scientific bodies
- universities
With experience, you can:
- become a senior ecologist, leading a team of researchers
- be employed as a consultant on sustainable development projects
- act as an adviser on biodiversity policy
- work in conservation education or scientific journalism
- specialise in a particular area, for example the study of insects - entomology
You can find more job specialisms at Green Jobs for Nature.