Ecologist

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced Ecologist to contribute to impactful projects within the environmental industry. Based in Edinburgh, you will play a key role in delivering ecological assessments and providing expert guidance on biodiversity and conservation matters.

Client Details

The employer is a well-established organisation operating within the property industry. With a strong reputation for delivering high-quality services, they are focused on creating sustainable and environmentally-conscious solutions. The company offers a supportive environment and values professional expertise in its team.

Description

We are looking for an early-career ecologist to join our Environment team and support a wide range of projects across Scotland. You will work alongside experienced environmental consultants and colleagues in our planning, engineering and design teams, helping to deliver clear, practical ecological advice on multi-disciplinary projects.

You will gain hands-on experience in ecological survey, assessment and mitigation design, with structured support to develop your technical skills, report writing and project responsibilities over time.

As a Consultant Ecologist you will

Assist in planning and undertaking ecological field surveys, including Phase 1 / UKHab habitat surveys and protected species surveys under the supervision of senior ecologists.

Help to collate and analyse desk study data, prepare baseline plans and maintain accurate field records.

Contribute to the preparation of ecological reports, including survey reports, PEAs and inputs to Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIAs).

Support the design and delivery of practical mitigation and habitat enhancement measures on development and infrastructure projects.

Help with day-to-day project tasks such as preparing risk assessments, organising survey logistics and liaising with site contacts.

Take an active role in your own professional development, supported by mentoring, on-the-job learning and access to formal training.

As your experience grows, you will be supported to take on more responsibility for survey planning, client communication and technical inputs.

Profile

A degree (minimum BSc) in ecology, environmental science, biology or a related discipline.

Some experience of ecological fieldwork, gained through consultancy, seasonal roles, research projects, or volunteer work.

A basic understanding of UK wildlife legislation, policy and planning, with an interest in developing this further (experience in the Scottish context is an advantage but not essential).

Some experience assisting with ecological assessments such as Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (PEAs), constraints assessments or similar.

Practical experience of at least one type of protected species or habitat survey (for example bats, GCN, otter, badger, breeding birds or habitat/botanical surveys).

A full UK driving licence and willingness to travel to project sites

Eligibility for CIEEM membership is expected; existing membership is an advantage.

We are particularly interested in candidates who can demonstrate

Good foundational field skills, for example basic habitat classification and plant identification, or experience with one or more protected species groups.

A genuine interest in ecology and conservation, and a clear motivation to develop a career in ecological consultancy.

Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present information clearly and accurately.

Good organisational skills, attention to detail and a conscientious approach to health and safety, including willingness to prepare and follow site risk assessments.

Basic competence in Microsoft Office and AI literacy

Experience with GIS (ArcGIS or QGIS) and/or Biodiversity Net Gain tools would be an advantage but is not essential.

Any developing technical specialism (e.g. bats, herpetofauna, ornithology, botany) or progress towards a protected species survey licence would be welcomed.

Job Offer

A competitive salary ranging

A permanent position offering stability and long-term career opportunities.

Opportunities to work on meaningful projects within the property industry.

A supportive and professional work environment in Edinburgh.

Exposure to a variety of ecological and biodiversity challenges.