We are seeking an experienced Senior Field Ecologist for a 1-year contract to lead ground verification of our AI and satellite-powered Biodiversity Net Gain assessments.
This role is perfect for ecologists who are passionate about fieldwork but frustrated by endless desk-based tasks. Your field insights will directly shape how our technology evolves, giving you genuine influence over the future of BNG assessments.
What Makes This Different
Technology Meets Nature: Master BNGAI software and automated reporting while spending most of your time outdoors conducting surveys across the UK’s diverse landscapes.
Future-Proof Your Career: Build expertise in AI-powered ecological assessment—a skillset becoming increasingly valuable as the industry evolves.
Senior Influence: Work with our solutions ecology team to improve methodologies, validate AI outputs, and contribute to product development.
Maximum Autonomy: Manage your own survey schedule and travel with complete expenses coverage and trust in your professional judgment.
How You’ll Make an Impact
Lead field verification surveys using our BNGAI Ground Survey app to validate AI-powered assessments. Provide senior-level QA on automated BNG Baseline reports and work directly with customers. Collaborate with our team to refine validation protocols based on field observations. Mentor other field ecologists and autonomously manage complex survey schedules. Act as the bridge between field reality and technology development, ensuring AI outputs meet professional standards.
Essential Requirements
- Chartered or full CIEEM membership
- Degree in ecology or environmental science
- Valid UK driving license
- 5+ years ecological fieldwork experience, ideally with developers/corporates
- Extensive BNG assessment and ground verification experience
- Expert knowledge of UK habitat classification (Phase 1, UKHab, NVC)
- Deep understanding of BNG metrics and statutory requirements
- Proven track record producing high-quality ecological reports
- Comfortable adopting field-based technology
- Independent survey delivery with excellent time management
- Strong health and safety awareness
The Right Mindset
Genuine enthusiasm for technology and innovation in ecological practice. Intellectual curiosity about how AI can enhance field ecology. Collaborative with technical teams. Adaptable to new tools and processes. Passionate about outdoor work while embracing modern solutions to administrative challenges.
Desirable: Field ID Skills Certificate Level 4, GIS experience, first aid training, mentoring experience.
This is a contractor position requiring self-employed/limited company status. You’ll be responsible for your own tax and NI contributions. Expenses paid for all field surveys.