Senior Ecologist

Senior Ecologist

Location: Renfrew, Scotland

Salary: £35,000 - £40,000

Type: Full-time | Permanent |

Flexible Options: Hybrid working

A respected environmental consultancy is seeking a Senior Ecologist to lead and deliver ecological projects across Scotland and the wider UK. This is a pivotal role within a small, close-knit team of 12, offering a balance of fieldwork, project management, and mentorship.

You’ll work on a diverse portfolio of projects-from preliminary ecological appraisals to long-term frameworks with major utilities-while helping shape the future of a consultancy that values both environmental impact and team wellbeing.

This position provides a balance of site based and desk based work.

What You’ll Do

• Lead ecological surveys, habitat assessments, and species monitoring
• Deliver Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIA), management plans, and technical reports
• Provide expert advice to clients and project teams
• Mentor junior staff and support their development
• Manage projects to meet deadlines, budgets, and quality standards
• Liaise with clients, regulators, and stakeholders
• Contribute to business development and proposal writing
• Integrate emerging ecological trends and technologies
• Attend CPD courses and contribute to a positive team culture
• Travel and overnight stays required during peak survey seasons

What You’ll Bring

• Strong knowledge of Scottish ecological legislation and consultancy experience
• Skilled in data analysis, GIS, and technical report writing
• Associate or full CIEEM membership (or eligibility)
• Excellent communication and organisational skills
• Relevant degree (e.g. ecology, zoology, environmental management) or equivalent experience
• Valid UK driving licence (min. 2 years) and access to a car
• Willingness to obtain protected species licences (e.g. bat roost visitor)
• Capable and comfortable with outdoor fieldwork in varied conditions

Team Culture & Benefits

• Friendly, collaborative team of 12 with strong links between juniors and leadership
• Over 600 hours of training delivered across the team this year
• Regular team away days and CPD sessions
• Hybrid working encouraged (at least one WFH day per week)
• TOIL and flexible working options
• Health insurance and standard pension
• 3- and 4-day week options available
• Carbon footprint audit identified commuting as the largest contributor-remote work actively supported

Project Highlights

• Preliminary ecological appraisals across Scotland
• Conservation-led surveys of sinks in North Lanarkshire-land to be designated for protection
• Framework with ScottishPower: £2M of OHL survey work over 3 years-remote, wild terrain
• Framework with Argyll and Bute Council-overnight hotel stays for fieldwork

If you’re ready to step into a senior role where your expertise, leadership, and ideas will be valued, this could be your next move. Apply now or get in touch for a confidential chat.