Field Ecologist

The Role

We are seeking a motivated Field Ecologist for a 1-year contract to conduct ground verification of our AI and satellite-powered Biodiversity Net Gain assessments. This is an exceptional opportunity to future-proof your ecology career by developing expertise at the intersection of nature and technology - spending most of your time outdoors conducting surveys while mastering cutting-edge BNGAI software that eliminates the administrative burden typically associated with ecological work.

If you love being an ecologist but dislike the endless admin, this role offers the perfect combination. Our AI and satellite technology handles habitat mapping, metric calculations, and report generation automatically, freeing you to focus on what you're passionate about: fieldwork, species identification, and habitat assessment.

You'll also work closely with our Solutions Ecology team, contributing field insights that directly improve our processes and product. This exposure to how technology is built gives you a competitive advantage as the ecology profession increasingly adopts AI-powered solutions.

What Makes This Opportunity Unique

• Technology Meets Nature: Master BNGAI software and automated reporting systems while spending the majority of your time conducting ground surveys across diverse landscapes in the UK.
• Career Future-Proofing: Build expertise in AI-powered ecological assessment early in your career - a skillset that will become increasingly valuable and set you apart from peers as technology transforms the profession.
• Learn from the Best: Work alongside experienced ecologists in our Solutions Consultant team who bring diverse expertise.
• Autonomy & Growth: Manage your own survey schedule and travel with significant independence, while having support when you need it.

How you’ll make an impact:

• Conduct field-based verification surveys across UK using our BNGAI Ground Survey app to validate AI and satellite-powered biodiversity assessments
• Support finalisation of BNG Baseline reports based on ground survey data collected through our automated systems
• Work autonomously to manage your survey schedule and travel arrangements
• Collaborate with our Solutions Ecology team to improve our technology based on your field observations
• During periods of reduced survey requirements, support customer inquiries and ecology-related tasks remotely
• Contribute practical field insights that enhance our product capabilities and assessment methodologies
• Apply your ecological knowledge to help validate and refine AI-generated habitat classifications

What we’re looking for:

Professional Credentials

• Degree in ecology, environmental science, or related field
• Associate or full member status with CIEEM (Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management)
• Valid UK driving license

Technical Skills

• Demonstrated experience conducting Biodiversity Net Gain assessments or ground verification work
• Ability to work with end customers
• Solid knowledge of UK habitat classification systems
• Understanding of BNG metrics and calculations
• Comfortable learning and using field-based technological tools and applications

Field Experience

• Proven ability to conduct ecological surveys independently
• Strong time management and self-organisation skills
• Health and safety awareness in field environments
• Comfortable working outdoors in variable British weather conditions

Mindset & Approach

• Enthusiasm for technology and innovation in ecological practice
• Curiosity about how AI can complement traditional field ecology
• Willingness to learn new tools and adapt to modern assessment approaches
• Collaborative spirit and openness to feedback
• Genuine passion for fieldwork and spending time in nature
• Any experience with GIS or digital mapping tools

Desirable Qualifications

• Field Identification Skills Certificate level 4 or equivalent
• Experience providing habitat surveys specifically for BNG purposes
• Knowledge of NVC (National Vegetation Classification)
• Current first aid training

Practical Requirements

• Willingness to travel for field surveys (expenses paid)
• Home office setup for remote work during quieter periods

What you’ll love:

Contract Details

• 1-year fixed-term contract
• Competitive salary
• All travel and accommodation expenses fully covered

Professional Development

• Comprehensive training on BNGAI technology platform and automated reporting systems
• Mentorship from experienced ecologists in our Solutions team
• Exposure to AI and satellite technology in ecological applications
• Opportunity to contribute to product development and methodology improvements
• Build a unique skillset that combines traditional field ecology with modern technology

Work Environment

• Maximum time in the field, minimum time on administration
• Genuine autonomy in managing your fieldwork
• Remote work flexibility during non-survey periods
• Supportive team environment with diverse ecological expertise
• Dynamic startup culture with opportunities to make real impact

The Future-Proof Advantage

• This role positions you ahead of the curve as ecological practice evolves. While your peers may struggle with increasing administrative demands, you'll have mastered the technology that's transforming the profession. As BNG becomes embedded in planning systems nationwide and AI-assisted assessments become standard, you'll have the unique combination of field expertise and technical knowledge that employers will increasingly seek.

• If you're an ecologist who loves being outdoors but dreads the desk work, and you're excited about being part of technology that's shaping the future of the profession, we'd love to hear from you.

We are proud to be an equal-opportunity employer. We are committed to embracing diversity and inclusion in our hiring practices, and we promote a work environment where everyone, from any race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin, can do their best work.