About the Opportunity
Embankment Group is recruiting for a Consultant Ecologist to join a leading multidisciplinary environmental and engineering consultancy in Edinburgh.
This is an excellent opportunity for an Ecologist looking to develop their career within an established and supportive team, working on a diverse portfolio of projects across infrastructure, energy, development and the wider environmental sector.
The successful candidate will work alongside experienced Ecologists and environmental specialists, contributing to ecological assessments, protected species surveys, Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) assessments and the development of practical ecological mitigation and enhancement strategies.
The position offers flexible working arrangements, structured training and mentoring, and opportunities to develop specialist ecological expertise, progress towards protected species licences and take on greater project management responsibilities.
The Role
As a Consultant Ecologist, you will support the delivery of ecological consultancy services across a range of projects, working collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams, clients and environmental specialists.
Key responsibilities include:
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Planning and undertaking ecological surveys, including Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (PEAs), habitat assessments and protected species surveys.
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Preparing ecological reports, including PEAs, protected species survey reports, method statements and ecological management plans.
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Supporting Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) assessments and biodiversity enhancement strategies.
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Applying the mitigation hierarchy and developing appropriate ecological mitigation, compensation and enhancement measures.
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Supporting the preparation of project proposals, tenders and fee estimates.
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Working closely with clients, project teams and GIS specialists to deliver high-quality ecological assessments.
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Liaising with statutory consultees, regulators and other stakeholders.
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Assisting with project management, including coordinating surveys, managing deliverables and meeting project deadlines.
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Supporting and mentoring junior Ecologists where appropriate.
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Contributing to the continued development of a collaborative and technically strong ecology team.
About You
We are looking for an enthusiastic Ecologist with professional consultancy experience, strong technical knowledge and a proactive approach to project delivery.
The ideal candidate will demonstrate:
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A relevant degree or equivalent qualification in Ecology, Environmental Science or a related discipline.
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Professional experience within ecological consultancy or a relevant environmental regulatory environment.
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Experience undertaking habitat assessments and protected species surveys.
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Strong ecological report-writing skills, including experience preparing PEAs and protected species reports.
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Knowledge of relevant UK ecological legislation, planning policy and environmental guidance.
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An understanding of Biodiversity Net Gain principles and ecological enhancement opportunities.
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Experience using digital field data collection tools, such as Survey123, Field Maps or similar platforms.
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Strong organisational, communication and client-facing skills.
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Membership of CIEEM or a commitment to working towards professional membership.
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A full UK driving licence.
Experience in project management, specialist ecological surveys or holding protected species survey licences would be advantageous.
What's on Offer?
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Competitive salary of £35,000 – £38,000, depending on experience.
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Flexible and hybrid working arrangements.
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Opportunities to work on major infrastructure and environmental projects.
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Access to experienced ecological specialists and multidisciplinary teams.
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Structured training, professional development and mentoring.
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Support towards CIEEM membership and protected species licences.
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Opportunities to develop technical specialisms and project management skills.
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Clear career progression within an established consultancy.
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A supportive and collaborative working environment.
Apply Now
If you're an Ecologist looking for your next opportunity in Edinburgh, we'd be keen to hear from you.
This position offers the chance to develop your technical expertise, work on a varied portfolio of projects and progress your career within a well-established environmental consultancy.
To apply, submit your CV through our website or contact Embankment Group for a confidential discussion about the opportunity.
Embankment Group – Specialists in Ecology & Environmental Recruitment.
