About the Company
This boutique consultancy has built a strong reputation for delivering high-quality ecological services across Scotland, particularly within the renewables and infrastructure sectors.
With a growing pipeline of overhead line (OHL), wind, and wider infrastructure projects, the business is now looking for a Principal Ecologist (with ornithology experience preferred) to take ownership of project delivery, client relationships, and technical outputs, while supporting the development of the wider team.
About the Role
As Principal Ecologist, you will:
Responsibilities
- Lead and deliver ecological surveys across Scotland, including remote upland locations
- Manage field programmes, data analysis, and technical reporting
- Support ecological assessments for renewables, OHL, and infrastructure projects
- Collaborate with clients, project managers, and internal specialists to provide clear, practical advice
- Contribute to the growth and strategic development of the ecology function
- Represent the business with professionalism, technical credibility, and a solutions-focused approach
Qualifications
- 7+ years’ experience in ecology
- Strong technical expertise (ornithology preferred; botany or other specialisms also valuable)
- Proven experience in designing, delivering, and reporting on bird and ecological surveys
- Strong project management capability
- Full CIEEM membership (essential)
- Experience in renewables, infrastructure, or OHL projects (desirable)
- A full UK driving licence and willingness to travel frequently to remote sites
- The ability to work independently within a small, high-performing team
- CSCS card (preferred)
Required Skills
Strong technical expertise (ornithology preferred; botany or other specialisms also valuable)
Proven experience in designing, delivering, and reporting on bird and ecological surveys
Strong project management capability
Full CIEEM membership (essential)
Preferred Skills
Experience in renewables, infrastructure, or OHL projects (desirable)
CSCS card (preferred)
Pay range and compensation package
Salary: £45,000–£50,000
Annual performance bonus (c. £1,000 last year)
Paid training and development budget
Private healthcare
Access to company vehicles
Significant opportunity to influence and grow within a scaling consultancy
Supportive, collaborative team with strong industry reputation and robust ISO systems
Equal Opportunity Statement
We are committed to diversity and inclusivity in our hiring practices.
…