The interview involved typical questions including challenges encountered, times you've had to work in a team. This was followed by an informal species ID quiz and survey based scenario based questions.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
What has been the biggest challenge encountered in your career?
The interview was in person in the office. The interview team were very friendly but professional. There was one senior ecologist and one early career ecologist and they both asked questions.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
The interview included some general discussion about the role and my experience, and then about 5 general interview questions. Then there was an ecology-specific scenario question and a short ID quiz with droppings, footprints, animals and a few plants.
I applied online. I interviewed at Jacobs (Manchester, England) in Feb 2026
Interview
Around 7 questions about transferable skills such as report writing, creativity in solving problems and managing busy schedules. Followed by an ID quiz about common UK species such as Otters, badgers, bats and invasive plant species.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
What experience do you have about health and safety.
The Jacobs seasonal ecologist interview was a relaxed and friendly conversation, focused on previous field experience, teamwork, and availability. It felt more like a supportive discussion than a formal interview.
