Landscape Scientist
The Work
Landscape scientists apply their scientific expertise to practical landscaping problems. They are likely to be an expert in an area such as botany, geology, soil science, ecology or conservation.
Their work depends on their area of expertise and can involve: ecological and habitat surveys; assessment of one particular species of wildlife or plant life; advising on planting and maintenance of a site; creating new habitats and environments; drawing up wildlife management plans; analysing soil; setting up and evaluating a conservation scheme.
Landscape scientists also advise on reclamation techniques and pollution management. They may be involved in evaluating the environmental effects of planning applications and providing evidence at public enquiries.
Their work could include inviting tenders for landscaping work and maintenance contracts. Once a contract has been agreed landscape scientists may supervise the construction work to make sure that it is done on time and to the right standard.
They work closely with landscape architects, landscape managers and other professionals, such as planners and civil engineers.
Hours and Conditions
Hours of work can be long and irregular, with evening and weekend work sometimes being necessary.
Landscape scientists spend a lot of time in an office or laboratory. Some outdoor work may be necessary, and this could be in all weathers.
Those who work in the private sector may spend a lot of time travelling to sites. They may occasionally have to stay away from home. A driving licence is usually necessary.
Skills and Interests
To work as a landscape scientist, you should:
Training
Training is normally on the job.
You can apply for associate membership of the Landscape Institute (LI) if you have completed an approved degree / postgraduate qualification. Contact the LI for details of courses.
You can also become an Associate Member if you have a degree in a natural science. You will need at least two years' relevant experience.
To become a fully qualified Member of the LI (MLI) and a Chartered Landscape Architect, you need two more years of approved experience of work as an Associate Member. You must also pass a written and spoken examination.
You may be eligible to join the Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management. The Institute has Student, Affiliate and Full Membership grades. Contact the Institute for details.
Opportunities
Landscape scientists can be employed anywhere in the UK. They can work for one of a range of organisations. They include local government, large industrial companies and environmental consultancies. Some work for organisations that are involved in environmental concerns, such as English Nature, the Countryside Commission and Scottish National Heritage. Landscape scientists can also work in a private landscape practice or education.
Promotion to a senior or management job role is possible. Some may start their own business or go into partnership in private practice. It may be possible to work abroad, especially in Europe, the Middle East and the Far East.
Salary
The figures below are intended as a guideline only.
The starting salary for a graduate landscape scientist can be between £13,000 to £16,500 a year.
Most qualified landscape scientists earn £20,000 or more a year.
Almost half of all qualified scientists earn over £25,000 or more a year.
Further Information
Channel 4 is not responsible for the content of third party websites.
The Landscape Institute
Tel: 020 7350 5200
www.l-i.org.uk
Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management
Tel: 01962 868626
www.ieem.org.uk
