Principal Ecologist

Principal Ecologist

Inverness | Hybrid Working
£45,000-£55,000 + Car Allowance + Benefits

Help Deliver Renewable Energy Projects That Drive the Energy Transition

Join a leading renewable energy and environmental consultancy and play a key role in delivering some of the UK's most significant onshore renewable energy projects.

Working within a multidisciplinary Consenting & Environment team, you'll provide expert ecological input across the full project lifecycle, from site identification and feasibility through to EIA, consenting, construction and operational support. You'll manage projects, mentor junior ecologists, maintain key client relationships and contribute to business development activities, helping to deliver projects that support the transition to a low-carbon future.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead ecological inputs to renewable energy projects across the UK and Ireland
• Design and oversee ecological surveys, assessments and reporting
• Produce and review EIA chapters, HRA reports, Habitat Management Plans and licence applications
• Manage project budgets, resources and delivery programmes
• Support and mentor Ecologists and Consultant Ecologists
• Develop client relationships and engage with regulators, landowners and stakeholders
• Contribute to tenders, proposals and wider business development initiatives
• Represent the business at industry events and conferences

Essential Requirements

• Degree in Ecology, Environmental Science or a related discipline
• CIEEM membership (or equivalent professional body)
• Significant ecological consultancy experience
• Strong knowledge of ecological surveys, impact assessments and environmental legislation
• Experience managing projects, budgets and client relationships
• Excellent report writing and communication skills
• Full UK driving licence

Desirable

• Onshore renewables and wind farm experience
• NVC and upland habitat expertise
• Habitat Regulations Appraisal (HRA) experience
• Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) knowledge
• Wind farm construction support experience
• Protected species licences
• Experience working in Ireland and/or on DCO projects

What's on Offer?

• £45,000-£55,000 salary
• Car allowance
• Hybrid working
• 37.5-hour working week
• Strong CPD and career development support
• Opportunity to work on industry-leading renewable energy projects
• Clear progression within a growing environmental team

If you're an experienced ecological consultant looking to combine technical leadership, project management and renewable energy expertise, this is an excellent opportunity to join a market-leading team shaping the future of sustainable infrastructure across the UK and Ireland.