Assistant Field Ecologist

Scotlink; Southampton; On-site; GBP 28,000 - GBP 30,000; Full time

Job summary

An ecological consultancy is seeking an enthusiastic Assistant Field Ecologist based in Southampton for the 2026 survey season. This full-time temporary position includes delivering ecological survey work, supporting the team, and ensuring high-quality service to clients focused on biodiversity across the UK. The ideal candidate should have a degree in a relevant field, and at least one season of experience in ecological consultancy. Benefits include training, a relaxed work environment, and competitive pay.

Benefits

Complimentary private GP appointments

Regular training opportunities

Employee assistance programme

Increased hourly rate for evening surveys

Fixed weekdays for evening surveys

Company laptop and phone

25 days Annual Leave plus Bank Holidays

Qualifications

• One field season of post‑qualification experience in an ecological consultancy.
• Experience undertaking ecological surveys independently.
• Ability to coordinate with field ecologists.

Responsibilities

• Deliver high‑quality ecological survey work.
• Support the team in providing excellent service.
• Collect accurate field data following ECOSA procedures.

Skills

Field survey techniques

Ecological data collection

Communication

Organizational skills

MS Outlook, Word, and Excel

Driving license

Education

Degree in a relevant subject

Job description

Location: Southampton-based with travel across the region

Salary: £28,000-£30,000 depending on experience

ECOSA is seeking an enthusiastic and motivated Assistant Field Ecologist to join our growing team for the 2026 ecological survey season. This role is ideal for those looking to further develop their field skills within a supportive, experienced consultancy.

As an Assistant Field Ecologist, you will play a key role in delivering high‑quality ecological survey work and supporting our team in providing an excellent level of service to our clients and help protect and enhance biodiversity across the UK.

As a CIEEM Registered Practice, we are committed to ensuring best practice and the positive promotion of the profession.

This role is offered as full‑time position on a temporary contract available from 30th March to 13th November 2026. At the end of the season successful candidates may be considered for a longer‑term role.

Essential Skills and Qualifications

• Degree in a relevant subject.
• Minimum of one field season of post‑qualification experience in an ecologically focused role, preferably in ecological consultancy.
• Ability to undertake a variety of ecological surveys, both independently and as a lead surveyor for small teams.
• Aptitude for collecting accurate field data in line with industry standards and ECOSA procedures.
• Capability to coordinate effectively with fellow field ecologists during site work.
• Ability to maintain clear communication with project ecologists to ensure accurate and efficient survey delivery.
• Willingness to work outdoors in variable weather and at unsocial hours when required.
• Strong organisational skills and ability to manage time effectively across multiple projects.
• Sound MS Outlook, Word and Excel skills.
• A full driving licence.
• Legal entitlement to work in the UK.

What ECOSA can offer you

• Access to complimentary private GP appointments for all staff and their families.
• Regular in‑house and external training.
• An employee assistance programme to provide access to information on wellness, medical health and general life support and advice.
• An increased hourly rate for undertaking dusk bat surveys (time and a half).
• Fixed weekdays for undertaking evening surveys, with on‑going Company reductions in bat survey requirement through implementation of high quality NVA equipment
• Core working hours between 10:00‑16:00, with flexibility around these times.
• Company laptop and phone.
• A relaxed office environment and a friendly team.
• Regular social events.
• Ability to accrue TOIL or be paid overtime.
• 25 days Annual Leave plus Bank Holidays, pro‑rata for the period of your contract.
• A rural office location with free car parking, a large garden, wildlife ponds, indoor / outdoor break area.

ECOSA are committed to providing a safe and supportive working environment where all of our staff can thrive and actively encourage input from staff and contributions from the team on the direction of the company.

How to Apply

Please email your Curriculum Vitae, ensuring to highlight all relevant knowledge, experience and skills, for the attention of Simon Colenutt, Managing Principal Ecologist at [e-mail]. If you would like to informally discuss this role, please contact Simon in the first instance.

Please title your email in the subject line 'Assistant Field Ecologist Vacancy'. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, so early submission is encouraged.