At a Glance
- Tasks: Support ecologists in wildlife surveys and data collection while gaining hands-on experience.
- Company: Join a leading ecology team with over 200 passionate professionals.
- Benefits: Flexible hours, competitive pay, travel expenses covered, and potential for permanent roles.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for mentorship and career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in wildlife conservation while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Degree in ecology or related field and previous survey experience preferred.
The predicted salary is between 12 - 15 £ per hour.
About the Opportunity
We’re looking for seasonal survey assistants to support our experienced ecologists on a variety of projects. You will work alongside specialists in protected species and habitat surveys, gaining hands‑on experience in ecological surveying and data collection. If you have experience leading surveys, we would like to hear from you. Our ecology team is over two hundred strong, providing mentoring and career support to ensure your professional development.
Primary Responsibilities
- Support the national team of ecologists on a range of projects.
- Provide survey support and logistic planning.
- Conduct ecological surveying and biological data collection.
Field‑Based Role
The role may involve early mornings, late evenings and overnight stays. All travel and accommodation expenses are covered and a subsistence budget is provided.
Key Benefits of a Zero‑Hour Contract
- Flexibility & Control – choose when you work, ideal for balancing jobs, study or family commitments.
- Statutory Rights – entitlement to the National Minimum/Living Wage, paid holiday, rest breaks, payslips, and protection from discrimination.
- Opportunity & Experience – chance to build skills, gain experience and potentially transition to a permanent role.
- Short Notice Protections – recent changes protect workers from unfair deductions if shifts are cancelled last minute.
- Variable income – earnings are not guaranteed and you are typically classified as a worker.
What You'll Need
- Enthusiasm for a career in wildlife or ecology.
- Organised, dependable and with good time‑management skills.
- Proactive mindset and drive to succeed in a dynamic environment.
- Willingness to work away from home and stay away for up to four nights a week.
- Valid driving licence.
- Right to work in the UK.
- Eligibility for CIEEM membership.
- Degree in ecology or a related subject.
- Previous experience in ecological surveys.
Employment & Contract
Immediate availability is required. Interviews will be arranged as soon as possible, with an anticipated start date of late June or early July. We are a disability confident employer and will interview disabled candidates who best meet the criteria. We welcome applications from candidates seeking flexible working and from those who may not meet all the listed requirements for the role.
Equal Opportunity
Jacobs is an equal opportunity employer. We accept people for who they are and champion the richness of different perspectives, lived experiences and backgrounds in the workplace. All are encouraged to apply.
Reasonable Adjustments
If you require reasonable adjustments for recruitment or the role, please contact the Careers Support team. We will do our best to accommodate your needs.
Seasonal Ecologist - Edinburgh employer: Jacobs Engineering Group Inc.
Join our dynamic ecology team in Edinburgh, where you will gain invaluable hands-on experience while working alongside over two hundred dedicated professionals. We pride ourselves on fostering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee growth and flexibility, offering opportunities for career development and the chance to make a meaningful impact in wildlife conservation. With travel and accommodation expenses covered, as well as a commitment to equal opportunities, we ensure that every team member feels valued and empowered.
Contact Details:
Jacobs Engineering Group Inc. Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Seasonal Ecologist - Edinburgh
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the ecology field, attend local events, and join online forums. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that seasonal ecologist gig.
✨Tip Number 2
Get hands-on experience! Volunteer for local wildlife projects or conservation efforts. This not only boosts your CV but also shows your passion for ecology, making you stand out when applying through our website.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your ecological knowledge and survey techniques. Practice common interview questions with friends or family to build your confidence before facing the panel.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay flexible and open-minded! The role may involve early mornings and late nights, so show your willingness to adapt. Highlight this during interviews to demonstrate your commitment to the job.
We think you need these skills to ace Seasonal Ecologist - Edinburgh
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Ecology:Let your enthusiasm for wildlife and ecology shine through in your application. We want to see that you’re genuinely excited about the opportunity to work with our team and contribute to important projects.
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Seasonal Ecologist role. Highlight any relevant experience you have with ecological surveys and data collection, as well as your organisational skills and proactive mindset.
Be Clear About Your Availability:Since this role involves flexibility and may require overnight stays, be upfront about your availability. Let us know when you can start and how many nights a week you’re willing to work away from home.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Jacobs Engineering Group Inc.
✨Know Your Ecology Stuff
Brush up on your ecological knowledge and be ready to discuss your previous survey experiences. Familiarise yourself with the specific species and habitats relevant to the projects you'll be supporting, as this will show your enthusiasm and preparedness.
✨Show Off Your Organisational Skills
Since the role involves logistics and planning, be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully managed projects or surveys in the past. Highlight your time-management skills and how you keep everything running smoothly, especially in dynamic environments.
✨Be Ready for Field Challenges
Expect questions about your willingness to work in various conditions, including early mornings and overnight stays. Share any relevant experiences that demonstrate your adaptability and commitment to fieldwork, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions about the ecology team and the projects you'll be involved in. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the role aligns with your career goals. Plus, it’s a great way to engage with the interviewers!
