Principal Ecologist
Overview
Our client is seeking a Principal Ecologist to play a pivotal role in driving the growth and success of their Ecology and Biodiversity team in Scotland. This is an exciting opportunity to join a well-respected consultancy and contribute to a diverse range of projects across Scotland. While the role offers flexible working arrangements, the successful candidate will ideally be able to travel to the Inverness office once per week.
Responsibilities
As a Principal Ecologist, you will:
- Lead ecological assessments and ensure the delivery of high-quality outputs.
- Oversee project delivery, including client liaison, budgeting, and team coordination.
- Prepare tenders, fee proposals, and contribute to business development initiatives.
- Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior colleagues, fostering their professional growth.
- Conduct technical reviews of ecological deliverables to ensure accuracy and compliance with best practices.
- Develop innovative ecological approaches and solutions to meet client needs.
- Maintain a strong understanding of the Scottish planning system, wildlife legislation, and ecological best practices.
- Collaborate with stakeholders, including local authorities, landowners, and community groups.
Qualifications
The ideal candidate will possess the following:
Essential:
- Proven experience in delivering and leading ecological surveys and assessments across Scottish habitats and species.
- Strong project management skills, including client liaison, budgeting, and team coordination.
- Expertise in preparing tenders, fee proposals, and contributing to business development.
- Comprehensive knowledge of the Scottish planning system, wildlife legislation, and ecological best practices.
- Excellent ecological reporting skills, including EcIA, HRA, and mitigation planning.
- Ability to communicate technical issues clearly and effectively to clients.
- Experience mentoring and developing junior team members.
- Capability to undertake technical reviews of ecological deliverables.
- A creative and solutions-oriented mindset.
- Flexibility to travel, including occasional overnight stays.
- Full UK driving licence.
Desirable:
- Chartered Ecologist or Chartered Environmentalist status.
- Experience in ornithology or habitat survey work.
- Protected species survey licences (e.g., bats, great crested newt, otter, badger).
- Experience working on infrastructure, utilities, or renewable energy projects.
- Familiarity with GIS software and ecological data analysis tools.
Day-to-Day
On a typical day, you will:
- Plan and lead ecological surveys and assessments.
- Collaborate with clients and stakeholders to deliver tailored ecological solutions.
- Review and approve technical reports and deliverables.
- Mentor and support junior team members, sharing your expertise and insights.
- Develop and implement innovative approaches to ecological challenges.
- Contribute to business development by preparing tenders and fee proposals.
- Stay up-to-date with changes in legislation, policy, and best practices.
Benefits
Our client offers a competitive salary aligned with your experience, along with a comprehensive benefits package, including:
- Professional membership subscription.
- Tailored external and internal training opportunities.
- 33 days of annual leave (including public holidays), with the option to buy or sell leave.
- Employee Assistance Programme.
- Employee referral scheme.
- Paid volunteering day.
- Flexible parental leave options.
- Cycle to Work and electric vehicle schemes.
If you are an experienced ecologist with a passion for biodiversity and a desire to lead impactful projects, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity. Join a team that values innovation, collaboration, and professional growth.
