Paul Preston
What employment sector do you work in?
Private Sector
How long have you had a green job for nature?
6 years
Please describe the work that you do.
I undertake a range of ecological surveys, including badger, great crested newt (GCN), bat, breeding and wintering bird, water vole, habitat and UKHab, invasive species and other protected species surveys. I work across urban, brownfield, agricultural and natural sites, then use Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to map habitats, species records and survey results, undertake spatial analysis and produce ecological plans and figures to support planning, licensing and Biodiversity Net Gain.
What do you most like about your job? Any dislikes?
I particularly enjoy badger and habitat surveys, as I enjoy being out in the field and working directly with the environment. I also enjoy the GIS and mapping side of my role. Overall, it is my ideal job and I have no real dislikes. The only occasional downside is that night-time bat surveys can disrupt my normal routine and sleep pattern.
What inspired you into this career?
I have always been interested in science and particularly the connections between nature, wildlife, geography, geology and the wider environment. I was fascinated by how these different aspects of the natural world interact and influence each other, which led me towards studying environmental subjects and eventually into a career combining ecology, fieldwork and Geographic Information Systems (GIS).
Have you faced any challenges in progressing your career so far?
The final year of my PhD was interrupted by illness and the COVID-19 pandemic, which made completing my research and progressing my career more challenging. I had to adapt to difficult circumstances and manage periods of disruption while continuing to work towards completing my PhD. It taught me the importance of resilience, patience and adapting to unexpected challenges, and I was able to overcome these setbacks and continue developing my career in ecology and GIS.
What education/training did you have?
I have a BSc (Hons) in Environmental Management, an MRes in Environmental Studies and a PhD in Environmental GIS. My education has given me a strong background in ecology, environmental science, geography, GIS, remote sensing and environmental data analysis. I am also a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society (RGS) and an Associate Member of CIEEM. I have developed extensive practical experience through ecological field surveys and professional work, allowing me to combine academic knowledge with practical ecology and Geographic Information Systems (GIS).
What advice would you give to someone coming into the profession?
I would advise people not to always follow the mainstream learning or topics. Follow the subjects and areas that genuinely interest you, as developing your own interests can lead to opportunities you might not otherwise find. Ask lots of questions, be curious and never be afraid to admit when you don’t know something, there is always more to learn in this profession.
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Tags: England, Private sector, Data and mapping roles, Ecological consultant
Date profile submitted: 18/08/2026
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