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Sarah Gathergood

Seasonal Field Ecologist
What employment sector do you work in?

Private Sector

How long have you had a green job for nature?

2 months

Salary Range

< £20,000

Please describe the work that you do.

I carry out ecological surveys across East Sussex. These have included a range of survey types on dormice, bats and reptiles/amphibians.

What do you most like about your job? Any dislikes?

I love getting to work outdoors, closely with nature. I also enjoy getting to travel to new places and exploring. The people that I work with are all extremely friendly and although I am a remote worker, I feel connected to a great bunch of ecologists.

What inspired you into this career? 

My passion for our environment and a keen drive to want to work in an industry where I can make a tangible difference to supporting a sustainable future.

Have you faced any challenges in progressing your career so far? 

I am finding it hard to progress into the next stage of my career because there seems to be a huge amount of competition. I am also struggling to gain experience in the report writing side of ecology consultancy, which seems to be a requirement for roles such as Assistant Ecologist which is what I am working towards achieving. I am looking to gain skills and experience where I can, but now that the survey season is coming to a close this is also narrowing down the opportunities to do so.

What education/training did you have?

I have a degree in Geography and a Level 3 Diploma in British Wildlife Rehabilitation.

What advice would you give to someone coming into the profession? 

I would say take any opportunity you can to gain a variety of experience, and learn your botany!

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Tags: England, Private sector, Ecologist, Ecological surveyor

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