Ecologist: What does it take? Here’s Beth’s Experience.

Being an Ecologist is a busy and varied career choice.  There is plenty to learn and here at Contract Ecology Ltd we had the pleasure in offering a seasonal placement to Beth, a Masters Graduate from Edge Hill University.

Here’s what Beth had to say about the time she spent with us as a graduate ecologist:

“I started working as a Graduate Ecologist for Contract Ecology after graduating with an MSc in Conservation Management. My previous relevant experience in the workplace consisted of a placement with the National Trust which had equipped me with habitat management skills. With a view to further develop these skills and gain experience working with protected species I started this role and began to gain valuable experience working for a consultancy.

I was surprised by the wide range of different projects the company was involved with, offering the opportunity to develop different skills, from protected species surveying and mitigation to habitat management tasks such as invasive species control. One scheme I have been involved with is a Badger mitigation project in the Manchester area. This job involved the building of an artificial sett and the closure of the main, annex and outlier setts in an area set for construction. I acted alongside colleagues as Ecological Clerk of Works and gained experience in surveying and monitoring throughout the project.

I have also gained experience in newt fencing and mitigation, Phase 1 Habitat mapping and habitat management tasks such as Himalayan Balsam removal, woodland thinning and reed-bed control. Such tasks as the latter three have allowed me insight into managing sites as a whole and for habitats present.

After providing me with my first role in the workplace, the senior ecologists have given me valuable experience wherever possible, offered much appreciated career advice and provided training in health and safety. The entire team of Contract Ecology have been extremely supportive along the way and a real pleasure to work with. I have been very fortunate to be part of a highly skilled ecology team who not only provide me with guidance developing new skills, but also take the time to get to know me as a person and make my work enjoyable. My role with Contract Ecology has been an excellent place to start my career in ecology”.

Placements and seasonal contracts are a great way to gain relevant work experience and skills. They allow graduates to enter at ground level and acquire valuable experience in the industry.

The benefit of working at Contract Ecology Ltd is that being a smaller company, the impact of your work will really be felt around the company, you will become and be classed as an integral part of our dedicated team.

If you are interested in joining our team of ecologists and ecological contractors then get in touch, we would love to hear from you.  Email: enquiries@contractecology.co.uk

Or for more advice and resources, The Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM), have a helpful section on their website which features advice, guidance and publications on all aspects of further srudy and career guidance, including a range of career profiles.  https://www.cieem.net/students-careers