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- Tasks: Join us as a Trainee Field Ecologist and gain hands-on experience in ecological surveys.
- Company: UKCEH is a leading independent research institute focused on environmental challenges.
- Benefits: Enjoy 27 days of annual leave, travel expenses covered, and access to mental health support.
- Why this job: This role offers exciting training and the chance to contribute to vital environmental research.
- Qualifications: A relevant degree, valid driving license, and a passion for ecology are essential.
- Other info: Must be living in Wales and available for full-time training in April.
If you are keen to expand your surveying skills and experience with us and want to know more, please contact: Glesni Williams . If this sounds like the right opportunity for you, please Apply now.
Please send us your CV, accompanied by a covering letter which highlights any relevant skills and experience, together with what excites you most about the role and working for UKCEH.
You will carry out work for the UKCEH under a contract of services agreement via Hays PLC (Company Number 02150950). You will be paid weekly by Hays PLC by submitting a timesheet to your UKCEH Line Manager.
Due to the guidelines set out by the Welsh Government as part of this community benefit programme, we are unable to accept applications from candidates living outside of Wales.
Unfortunately, we are unable to offer visa sponsorship for this position at this time.
For the role of Trainee Field Ecologist, we’re looking for someone who has:
A degree in a relevant subject area (e.g., Ecology, Environmental Science, Biology, Soil Science)
A full, valid driving license (manual)
A flexible approach to travel during the working week
A good level of physical fitness to work outdoors and carry field survey kit on uneven/rugged and varied terrain, in often remote locations
An understanding of UK Health & Safety
Good team working and communication skills
The ability to manage and coordinate time and tasks effectively
Enthusiasm, drive and passion for ecology
Desirable Skills:
Previous fieldwork experience
Experience of GIS software
Botanical ID skills
Recognition of broad habitats
Good navigational skills
IT literate, able to learn new software skills for data recording in the field
Interviews: week commencing Mon, 10th February 2025. We reserve the right to close this advert early if we find the right candidates, so we encourage you to apply early.
UKCEH is looking for two Trainee Field Ecologists to join our team of talented individuals, contributing to scientific discovery and generating the data, insights and solutions that researchers, businesses and governments need to solve complex environmental challenges.
As a valued member of our team, you’ll get:
27 days annual leave (prorated for part year working)
Travel, sustenance and accommodation paid by UKCEH for working days
24 hour, 365-day access to support with physical, mental, social, health or financial issues, plus access to our trained Welfare Officers
PAYE Pension provided by NEST (via Hays)
Access to a discount portal
You will be joining our successful Catchment to Coast research group based in Bangor, North Wales and will contribute to national field surveys which deliver into the (ERAMMP) and the of Great Britain. These long-term studies of the countryside enable us to monitor and understand the drivers of change to our environment.
This enriching and exciting 6-week training programme will provide you with an understanding of all aspects surrounding the running of long-term national field surveys; from design and planning, field data recording, sample collection, health & safety, biosecurity and much more, to start your career in ecology.
Training will take place alongside our professional surveyors in April, before shadowing them in the field as they carry out botanical surveys, habitat mapping, soil sampling and more, at a wide range of sites across Wales. You may also have the opportunity to get involved with other projects across UKCEH, to network and further develop your specific interests and career aspirations.
To meet the selection criteria for the trainee posts, applicants must be able to demonstrate they meet all three requirements:
Are currently living in Wales
Have completed undergraduate education, and not yet obtained regular employment in the field of ecology
Are available for the two weeks of full-time training (based in Bangor)
You’ll be joining a leading independent, not-for-profit research institute that’s committed to recruiting talented people like you and giving you the support you need to thrive at UKCEH.
Trainee Field Ecologist employer: UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology
Contact Detail:
UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Trainee Field Ecologist
✨Tip Number 1
Make sure to highlight your enthusiasm for ecology in your conversations with us. We love candidates who are passionate about the environment and can convey that excitement clearly.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarize yourself with the specific fieldwork techniques mentioned in the job description, such as botanical surveys and habitat mapping. This knowledge will help you stand out during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with current or former employees of UKCEH if possible. They can provide valuable insights into the company culture and expectations, which can be beneficial during your application process.
✨Tip Number 4
Be prepared to discuss your flexibility regarding travel and outdoor work. Demonstrating a willingness to adapt to various working conditions will show us that you're ready for the challenges of the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Trainee Field Ecologist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should highlight your relevant skills and experiences. Make sure to express what excites you most about the role and working for UKCEH. Personalize it to show your enthusiasm for ecology and how you can contribute to their team.
Tailor Your CV: Ensure your CV is tailored to the Trainee Field Ecologist position. Include any relevant education, fieldwork experience, and skills that align with the job description, such as GIS software knowledge or botanical identification skills.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Clearly state your degree in a relevant subject area and any additional qualifications that may set you apart. Mention your full, valid driving license and your physical fitness for outdoor work, as these are essential for the role.
Check Application Requirements: Before submitting, double-check that you meet all the application requirements, including residency in Wales and availability for the training period. Ensure all documents are complete and formatted correctly.
How to prepare for a job interview at UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology
✨Highlight Your Relevant Skills
Make sure to emphasize any skills or experiences that relate directly to ecology, environmental science, or fieldwork in your CV and covering letter. This will show your potential employer that you are a good fit for the role.
✨Demonstrate Your Enthusiasm
During the interview, express your passion for ecology and the environment. Share what excites you about the role and working with UKCEH, as enthusiasm can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Prepare for Practical Questions
Expect questions related to fieldwork scenarios, such as how you would handle specific challenges in outdoor environments. Be ready to discuss your physical fitness and ability to work in rugged terrains.
✨Showcase Teamwork and Communication Skills
Since the role involves working closely with others, be prepared to provide examples of how you've successfully collaborated in teams. Highlight your communication skills and how they contribute to effective teamwork.
