Ecologist

Ecologist

Full Time | Permanent | Renfrew, Scotland | £30,000 - £34,000

We are working with a growing ecological consultancy based in Renfrew, delivering high-quality ecological services across Scotland to a diverse client base, including infrastructure, utilities, local authorities, and conservation organisations.

Due to continued growth and a strong pipeline of work, they are seeking an enthusiastic Ecologist to join their expanding team. This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to develop their consultancy career within a supportive, technically strong environment.

The Role

This position offers a varied mix of fieldwork and office-based responsibilities, with the opportunity to manage your own projects while continuing to build technical expertise.

You will work across a broad portfolio of projects throughout Scotland, including:

• Gartcosh Great Crested Newt Reserve
• ScottishPower framework work (c. £2M over 3 years), including OHL surveys and remote upland fieldwork
• Argyll & Bute framework projects
• Conservation-led initiatives, supporting local communities to enhance biodiversity and progress sites towards protected status
• A strong pipeline of Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (PEAs)

Technical work is focused on:

• Protected terrestrial mammals (bats, badgers, beavers, otters, red squirrels, water voles)
• Habitat surveys (Phase 1, UKHab, NVC)

Key Responsibilities

• Manage ecological projects to a high professional and ethical standard
• Undertake PEAs, habitat surveys, and protected species surveys
• Produce clear, high-quality technical reports within agreed timeframes
• Liaise with clients, contractors, and stakeholders
• Provide practical ecological advice and recommendations
• Contribute to business growth through strong client relationships
• Ensure compliance with best practice, legislation, and health & safety requirements

About You

• Degree in Ecology or a related discipline
• Experience within ecological consultancy or a similar field
• Strong knowledge of Scottish ecology legislation, policy, and guidance
• Experience with habitat surveys and protected species work
• Good species identification skills
• Understanding of mitigation, licensing, and ecological best practice
• Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team

Desirable

• Protected species licences (e.g. bats, GCN, badger)
• Experience contributing to EPS licences
• Familiarity with QGIS
• Knowledge of NPF4 and Biodiversity Net Gain

What’s on Offer

• 4.5-day working week (finish at 1pm every Friday)
• Private healthcare scheme
• Pension scheme
• Enhanced pay for unsociable survey hours
• Ongoing training, mentoring, and CPD
• Support towards protected species licences
• Company-funded CIEEM membership
• Free flu jabs
• On-site parking
• A supportive, close-knit team environment

Location & Working Pattern

• Based in Renfrew, with travel to sites across Scotland
• Combination of fieldwork and office-based work
• Additional hours may be required during peak survey season (March–September)

Apply

To apply, please submit your up-to-date CV along with:

• Your current location
• Availability/start date