At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our Ecology team to conduct surveys and assist with ecological studies.
- Company: Dynamic consultancy focused on ecology and biodiversity in Southampton.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, competitive salary, and 25 days annual leave.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace welcoming diverse backgrounds and offering excellent career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in conservation while developing your skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Recent ecology graduate with strong communication skills and a passion for wildlife.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 32000 £ per year.
We are looking for recent graduates to join the Ecology and Biodiversity team in Southampton as a graduate ecologist. The role begins with ecological desk studies, field surveys, protected species mitigation, basic report‑writing duties, data entry and general office tasks, and will develop into more responsibilities as you gain experience.
Responsibilities
- Assist with ecological desk studies, field surveys and protected species mitigation for proposed development projects.
- Carry out basic report writing duties and data entry.
- Assist in general office tasks, maintaining and monitoring ecological survey equipment.
- Conduct ecological surveys of fauna including reptiles, otters, badgers, bats, birds, etc.
- Carry out habitat surveys and identify habitat types in the field.
- Develop a good understanding of wildlife legislation and policy and communicate this to colleagues, clients and contractors.
- Keep accurate field notes in accordance with scientific data collection principles; handle, record, and store data effectively.
- Record time and tasks accurately on SLR’s project management software and understand the commercial nature of consultancy projects.
- Take personal responsibility for your health and safety at work, learn SLR’s procedures and conduct work safely.
- Travel as required and work in all weathers; travel may involve long days and time away from home.
Qualifications
- Recent graduate with a degree in ecology or a related subject.
- Good interpersonal and communication skills.
- Strong commitment to producing high‑quality work as part of a team.
- Willingness to learn and a drive to grow within ecological consultancy.
- Full UK driving licence required; access to a vehicle before joining (travel expenses paid).
- Experience with bats is an advantage.
Benefits and Working Conditions
- Paid overtime or time off in lieu in accordance with policy.
- 25 days annual leave with flexible bank holidays.
- Hybrid and flexible working arrangements.
- Competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package including company pension, excellent healthcare, travel and life insurance.
- Structured career framework with regular reviews.
Equal Opportunity and Inclusion
We are committed to being an equal opportunities employer and foster an inclusive environment where all people can thrive, irrespective of background. We welcome applications from all individuals, including those from groups that are under‑represented such as 2SLGBTQI+, Indigenous peoples, ethnic minorities, women, individuals with visible or invisible disabilities and neurodivergent individuals. We are a Disability Confident employer and seek to provide equitable support throughout the recruitment process.
Graduate Ecologist in Southampton employer: SLR Consulting Ltd
Join our Ecology and Biodiversity team in Southampton, where we prioritise a supportive work culture that fosters personal and professional growth. As a Graduate Ecologist, you'll benefit from flexible working arrangements, competitive salaries, and a comprehensive benefits package, all while contributing to meaningful ecological projects. We are committed to inclusivity and equal opportunities, ensuring that every employee can thrive and develop their skills in a dynamic environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Graduate Ecologist in Southampton
✨Tip Number 1: Engage with the Community
Join local biology clubs or online forums where enthusiasts, students, and professionals share insights. Sites like ResearchGate and LinkedIn groups can be real goldmines for connecting with potential future colleagues or mentors in the field.
✨Tip Number 2: Consider Volunteering
Look for volunteering opportunities at local research labs or conservation projects. It’s a fab way to get hands-on experience, and it can often lead to job openings or at least some solid references for that sweet entry-level role you’re after!
✨Tip Number 3: Attend Conferences and Workshops
Keep an eye out for biology-related conferences or workshops in your area. These events are perfect for networking with industry leaders and learning about the latest breakthroughs. Plus, don’t forget those often-overlooked small talk opportunities—striking up a chat can open doors you didn’t even know existed!
✨Tip Number 4: Apply Directly Through Our Website
When you spot an entry-level position like the one at SLR Consulting Ltd, make sure to apply directly through our website. We love to see passionate candidates eager to jump-start their careers in biology, so make your application shine!
We think you need these skills to ace Graduate Ecologist in Southampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Academic Achievements:When applying for an entry-level role in biology, make sure to showcase your relevant coursework, grades, and any lab work you've done. We love to see your passion for the subject, so don’t shy away from mentioning any projects or discoveries that gave you a taste of the real scientific world.
Tailor Your CV to Science:Your CV should reflect your biology background but also highlight any transferable skills like teamwork from group projects or critical thinking from problem-solving exercises. Include any relevant summer internships, volunteering experiences, or lab assistant roles that can show us how ready you are for this entry-level position.
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:We’re looking for a touch of personality in your cover letter! Use this space to express your enthusiasm for the role and our company, SLR Consulting Ltd. Talk about why you’re keen to start your career in biology and how this entry-level role aligns with your aspirations.
Show Off Your Technical Skills:If you’ve got experience with specific lab techniques or software that's relevant to biology, make sure to mention it in your application. We want to see that you’re not just book-smart but that you have some hands-on skills too, which will definitely make you stand out!
How to prepare for a job interview at SLR Consulting Ltd
✨Show Off Your Lab Skills
For a biology-related role, it's crucial to display any lab skills or techniques you’ve picked up during your studies. Bring up specific experiences, like working with certain cultures or conducting assays, to demonstrate your hands-on knowledge. We all know that practical skills can be just as valuable as theoretical knowledge!
✨Get Familiar with Current Biological Research
Make sure you're up-to-date with the latest trends and breakthroughs in biology. Whether it’s CRISPR technology or recent discoveries in microbiomes, being able to chat about them in your interview with SLR Consulting Ltd can really help set you apart. We recommend picking a couple of key topics to know well so you can engage in a meaningful conversation.
✨Tailor Your Motivation
As it’s an entry-level role, showing your passion and eagerness to learn is key! Think about why you want to work in biology and be ready to share what excites you the most about the field. We want to show that we’re not just good on paper but genuinely enthusiastic about contributing to the team at SLR Consulting Ltd.
✨Be Ready for Technical Questions
Interviewers often ask candidates about specific biological concepts or scenarios to assess your understanding. We should prepare for questions like explaining cellular processes or discussing ecological interactions. Practising these topics beforehand can build your confidence and show that you're ready to tackle challenges at SLR Consulting Ltd.