Biodiversity officer
Biodiversity officers protect, manage and enhance the local environment. They promote awareness and understanding of the natural environment among the general public.
Biodiversity officers can also be know as sustainable development officers or nature conservation officers.
Did you know?
The British Trust for Conservation Volunteers is in the middle of a three-year campaign to increase the amount of work it does with under-represented communities, such as black and minority ethnic groups.
Facts and Figures
- Starting salary:
Approx £20,000
- Senior level salary:
Experienced managers can earn more than £30,000. Higher earners are usually based in the private sector.
- Education:
Degrees in environmental, life and urban and land studies are relevant to this role. HNDs in similar areas or in land or estate management represent an alternative route, but employers will probably require experience as well
- Skills:
Someone committed to the ideas and principles of sustainable development. Someone who is outgoing and can communicate well and lead discussions on the environment.
- Likely employer type:
Local government and statutory agencies including the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA), English Nature, Environment Agency and the Countryside Agency
- Working hours:
Generally 9am to 5pm, though field work will mean some flexibility is necessary.
- Where:
A mixture of field work and office work
- Opportunities:
Demand is growing
- Number of professionals:
The Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management has around 3,000 members.
Meet a biodiversity officer
Helpful links
- www.BTCV.org.uk The British Trust for Conservation Volunteers is a useful starting point for individuals keen to build up experience in an environment-related career:
- Groundwork Trusts work with communities throughout the UK to improve quality of life and the environment
- www.eco-uk.com A recruitment agency aimed specifically at those looking for a job in an environment-related career
