Jennifer Loyd-Pain
What employment sector do you work in?
Public Sector
How long have you had a green job for nature?
22 years
Salary Range
£25,001 – £30,000
Please describe the work that you do.
The position involves species and habitat research, liaising with field-based specialists and collaborating closely with Natural England and external specialists to produce evidence-based definition reports for the Defining Favourable Conservation Status project.
I also served on the committee for Natural England’s Women & Girls in Science Day (February 2023) event.
Outside of this role, I am also an ecological surveyor with a focus on mammals. I spend a lot of time watching bats in the summer.
What do you most like about your job? Any dislikes?
I enjoy that I am part of a wider team working to foster biodiversity, helping to recommend ideal favourable status for recovery.
As I also work as a part-time subcontractor with consultancies, my varied work allows for a great mix of learning from others, writing (which I love) and still getting hands-on out in the field.
As I was a wildlife educator for 20 years, I am looking forward to being a part of a working group supporting the Green Jobs for Nature campaign, connecting the next generations with their own opportunities.
What inspired you into this career?
I spent most of my childhood playing in the woods and started observing and recording wildlife in journals from a young age. Life took a different career direction until I was in my early thirties when I became increasingly disillusioned with development and habitat destruction in my North American town. I decided to go back to university to try to be a part of the solution.
Have you faced any challenges in progressing your career so far?
Yes, finances. As a wildlife educator, I found it difficult to earn a living at times, putting together seasonal and grant-funded work.
What education/training did you have?
The following educational qualifications have been highly valuable. However, I have learned a great deal from just doing and learning from others who know more than I do!
PhD Wildlife Conservation Education
MSc Education for Sustainability
PgCert Biological Recording
What advice would you give to someone coming into the profession?
Keep an open mind and don’t give up. It’s essential to pursue your interests and never forget that what you do, even in a small way, makes a difference. It’s especially important to be willing to try new things, look for mentors who are willing to share their knowledge and take every opportunity that comes your way.
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Tags: England, public sector, adviser, ecologist, research
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