Associate Ecologist – Scotland

Overview

Embankment Group is proud to partner with a leading environmental consultancy in their search for an experienced Associate Ecologist to join their expanding ecology team in Scotland. This is an exciting opportunity to work on a diverse range of projects across sectors such as renewable energy, infrastructure, and the built environment.

As a senior member of the ecology team, you will play a pivotal role in managing ecological inputs to projects, mentoring junior staff, and contributing to business development initiatives. This position is ideal for a seasoned ecological consultant who thrives on balancing technical delivery, project leadership, and client engagement.

Responsibilities

As an Associate Ecologist, your key responsibilities will include:

• Managing ecological inputs for development and land management projects across various sectors, including renewable energy, infrastructure, and the built environment.
• Advising clients on ecological constraints, mitigation strategies, and biodiversity opportunities.
• Designing and implementing habitat management and monitoring strategies for post-consent projects.
• Preparing fee proposals, scopes of work, and high-quality technical reports.
• Reviewing technical reports produced by colleagues and specialist subcontractors.
• Supervising and mentoring junior ecology staff, fostering their professional growth and development.
• Scheduling and managing complex ecological survey programmes to ensure timely and budget-conscious delivery.
• Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams, including planning, hydrology, landscape, and environmental assessment specialists.
• Supporting business development activities and identifying new opportunities for ecological services.

Qualifications

The ideal candidate will possess the following qualifications and experience:

Essential:

• Proven experience conducting habitat and protected species surveys within the UK.
• Strong understanding of ecological legislation, policy, and planning processes.
• Experience contributing to Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIA), Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA), and Habitats Regulations Assessments (HRA).
• Demonstrated ability to coordinate ecological surveys and manage project workloads.
• Excellent technical report writing skills.
• Experience mentoring or supporting the development of junior ecologists.
• A degree in ecology, environmental science, or a related discipline.
• Membership, or working towards membership, of the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM).
• A full UK driving licence.

Desirable:

• Experience working on renewable energy or infrastructure projects.
• Knowledge of designing biodiversity enhancement or habitat creation measures.
• Experience in business development and client relationship management.

Day-to-Day

Your day-to-day responsibilities will include:

• Leading ecological surveys and assessments, ensuring compliance with relevant legislation and best practices.
• Engaging with clients to provide expert advice on ecological matters and project requirements.
• Overseeing the preparation of technical reports and ensuring their quality and accuracy.
• Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to integrate ecological considerations into project designs.
• Mentoring and supporting junior team members to enhance their skills and career progression.
• Managing project timelines, budgets, and resources to ensure successful delivery.
• Identifying opportunities for business growth and contributing to the development of the ecology team.

Benefits

By joining this dynamic and forward-thinking consultancy, you will enjoy:

• A competitive salary and benefits package.
• Opportunities to work on a diverse range of high-profile projects across Scotland.
• A supportive and collaborative work environment within a multidisciplinary team.
• Professional development opportunities, including mentoring and training.
• The chance to make a meaningful impact on biodiversity and environmental sustainability.

If you are an experienced ecological consultant looking to take the next step in your career, we would love to hear from you. Join us in shaping a sustainable future while advancing your professional journey.

Apply today to become an integral part of a growing and innovative team!