Technical Director – Ecology and Ornithology
Location: Inverness, Scotland
Overview
Embankment Group is recruiting on behalf of a dynamic and expanding environmental consultancy for a Technical Director to lead and support the continued growth of an established ecology and ornithology team based in Inverness.
This is an exceptional opportunity for a senior professional in ecology or ornithology to combine technical leadership, team development, project delivery, and business growth within a respected consultancy. The organization specializes in delivering major renewable energy and infrastructure projects across Scotland.
The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in shaping the future direction of the ecology function across the Highlands and the wider North Scotland region, while fostering a collaborative, multidisciplinary team environment.
Responsibilities
As a Technical Director, you will:
- Lead the delivery of complex ecology and ornithology projects.
- Drive the growth and strategic direction of the ecology team.
- Manage project finances, schedules, and resource planning.
- Develop and maintain strong client relationships.
- Support tenders, bids, and broader business development activities.
- Act as a technical reviewer and provide strategic ecological advice.
- Mentor and line-manage junior and senior ecology staff.
- Collaborate with directors and multidisciplinary teams across the business.
- Promote continuous improvement and uphold technical standards.
This role offers the opportunity to work on nationally significant renewable energy, infrastructure, and environmental projects throughout Scotland.
Qualifications
The ideal candidate will possess:
- Extensive consultancy experience in ecology or ornithology.
- Proven leadership and project delivery capabilities.
- Strong commercial awareness and business development skills.
- Excellent technical report writing and review expertise.
- A thorough understanding of UK environmental legislation and planning policy.
- Experience managing project budgets and multidisciplinary teams.
- Strong mentoring and leadership abilities.
- Membership of CIEEM or an equivalent professional body.
- A full UK driving licence.
Experience in renewable energy, infrastructure, peatland restoration, protected species, or ECoW (Ecological Clerk of Works) work would be highly advantageous.
Day-to-Day
Your daily responsibilities will include:
- Overseeing the delivery of high-profile ecology and ornithology projects.
- Providing technical guidance and strategic advice to clients and internal teams.
- Managing and mentoring a team of ecology professionals.
- Engaging in business development activities, including client meetings and bid preparation.
- Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to ensure seamless project delivery.
- Reviewing technical reports and ensuring compliance with environmental legislation.
- Contributing to the strategic growth and direction of the ecology function in the region.
Benefits
This role offers a comprehensive package, including:
- A senior leadership position within a growing consultancy.
- Hybrid and flexible working arrangements to support work-life balance.
- An annual bonus and a competitive benefits package.
- The opportunity to influence regional growth and strategy.
- A strong focus on professional development and career progression.
- A collaborative and supportive company culture.
- The chance to work on nationally significant renewable energy and environmental projects.
Why Join Us?
This opportunity is ideal for an established Technical Director or an experienced Associate Director ready to step into a strategic leadership role. You will have the chance to make a meaningful impact on the growth of the ecology and ornithology function while contributing to Scotland’s renewable energy and infrastructure development.
If you are passionate about ecology, ornithology, and environmental consultancy, and are ready to take the next step in your career, we encourage you to apply.
Apply today to join a forward-thinking consultancy and help shape the future of environmental projects across Scotland.



