Biological Field Surveyor
Salary
Graduate: £18,000 - £27,000
Employee with 10-15 years in the role: £25,000 - £35,000
Senior Post: £35,000 - £45,000
Main Employers
- Government bodies and nature conservation agencies
- Local and regional government
- Consultancies
- Charities and pressure groups
- Nature reserves, national and country parks, private estates
- Water authorities
- Research and academic institutions
- The Forestry Commission
Job Profile
Biological field surveyors conduct and analyse scientific surveys of natural habitats, identifying, recording and monitoring plant and animal species. Surveys are commissioned by government, statutory bodies, private sector firms, voluntary organisations and pressure groups. Their purpose is to help clarify how habitats and species function, assist with conservation, assess the environmental impact of industry, farming and construction or changes in land use and monitor the impact of climate change on wildlife. Much of their work supports Biodiversity Action Plans (BAPs) and compliance with environmental legislation.
Role and Responsibilities
Jobs will vary according to each employer; however you could expect to be involved in:
- Surveying and monitoring areas, using existing records, maps, global information systems (GIS) and global positioning systems (GPS)
- Identifying and quantifying species present
- Analysing and interpreting data, using specialist software programs
- Writing reports on findings
Qualifications
Relevant further education subjects include: Applied Life Science; Biology; Botany; Earth Science; Ecology; Environmental Management; Environmental Science; Marine Biology; Oceanography.
A good degree is generally required, although entry with an HND may be possible if you have the required practical survey and identification skills. A postgraduate qualification in a relevant subject can be an advantage alongside a more general first degree. Pre-entry experience, either paid or voluntary, is essential and will boost your chances of securing a first position.
Career Opportunities
Biodiversity Action Plans have given rise to comprehensive lists of species requiring monitoring and protecting. Conservation sites include sites of special scientific interest, national nature reserves, property of The Wildlife Trusts, land owned by The National Trust, farmland or any habitat identified as in need of protection.
An increasing amount of biological survey work is carried out by specialist ecology consultants. Entry in field surveying is extremely competitive and many vacancies are filled by someone who has the right contacts. Environmental consultancies may offer work experience for graduates, mainly in the summer months, when they are at their busiest with surveys.
Volunteering will give you the opportunity to network and make contacts. Voluntary work can be gained with the BTCV or local wildlife trusts. You could also investigate conservation expeditions but these usually require you to raise funds to pay for the trip.
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