Ecologist
Ecologists study how plants, animals and the environment all fit together. They work to protect endangered species and habitats, and to help people understand why nature needs looking after.
AI USED FOR18%moving to63%
THE DOOR, NOWB
THE DOOR, 20 YRSD
STARTING PAY£22,000 - £27,000
NO MOATNo physical, legal or personal barrier protects this work from software.
THE DOOR: A easy to E extremely hard, now and in 20 years
AI helps here, but has not taken over
AI is already used for some of this job, but the day-to-day work still leans on a person to decide, check and take responsibility. Nothing formally protects this job though, so the safest move is to keep building the judgement AI cannot yet copy.
Career progression path
1FIRST STEPJunior EcologistIn this entry-level role, you will assist senior ecologists in fieldwork and data collection, gaining hands-on experience in ecological research and conservation efforts.£22,000 - £27,000
2GAINING EXPERIENCEMid-level EcologistAs a mid-level ecologist, you will lead projects, conduct independent research, and mentor junior staff, while continuing to develop your expertise in specific ecological areas.£30,000 - £38,000
3PEAK CAREERSenior Ecologist/Head of EcologyIn this peak career role, you will oversee major ecological projects, influence policy decisions, and represent your organisation at national and international levels.£42,000+
The degree route
Courses in this career's subject area, from the live library of 35,000; every one is AI impact assessed through its actual graduate destinations.
All Biological Sciences courses as cards →
Real apprenticeship standards
Live UK apprenticeship standards that lead into this career, from the Institute for Apprenticeships register.
L7Ecologist (integrated degree)36 months typicalnot published
There is more than one way inYou do not have to go the university route to get here. There is also a vocational route that skips a degree entirely.
Degree subjects that lead this way
Courses in this career's subject area, from the same register that priced the degree above. Subject-matched, not a guaranteed qualifying route: check each course's own entry requirements and any professional accreditation before you rely on it.