Principal Ecologist

Principal Ecologist (Remote – Scotland)

£45,000–£55,000 • £3k Car Allowance • Fully Remote • Strong CPD & Clear Progression

Join a growing ecology function with the freedom to work fully remotely from anywhere in Scotland. You’ll be part of a close-knit Scottish team (around 10 ecologists) supported by a wider UK network of 100+ specialists - giving you the best of both worlds: autonomy and influence locally, backed by national technical strength.

The Role

• Fully remote working with occasional site visits
• Lead ecological delivery across a diverse and high-profile project portfolio
• Provide senior technical oversight, review and sign-off of complex reports
• Act as a key client lead, shaping relationships and influencing project strategy
• Drive quality, consistency and best practice across the ecology team
• Mentor, support and develop junior and mid-level ecologists
• Contribute to team growth, resourcing decisions and technical direction
• Clear progression pathway into Associate Director level

What You Bring

• Strong experience delivering and overseeing ecological surveys, assessments and reporting
• Proven ability to manage projects, budgets and client expectations at a senior level
• Technical expertise in one or more specialisms (bats, botany, ornithology, mammals, etc.)
• Confidence providing strategic ecological advice internally and externally
• Collaborative, supportive leadership style
• Full UK driving licence

What You’ll Get

• £45,000–£55,000 salary
• Fully remote working across Scotland
• Car or car allowance (£3k)
• Strong CPD budget, mentoring and licence support
• Flexible working and TOIL
• Clear progression into Associate Director

Benefits Package

• 25 days annual leave + 8 bank holidays, with buy/sell options
• Pension: 3% employee minimum, 5% employer (rising to 7% after 5 years and 10% after 10 years)
• Life assurance at 3× salary
• Long-term disability insurance