Ecologist

Forth Rivers Trust; City of Edinburgh; Hybrid; GBP 26,000 - 29,000; Full time

Job summary

Forth Rivers Trust is looking for a motivated Ecologist to join their Science Team. You will lead ecological monitoring projects, assist with data analysis, and implement nature-based solutions such as wetland creation. This role offers the chance to work on meaningful environmental projects and contribute to local ecosystems while enjoying flexible working arrangements.

Benefits

9% pension

32 days holiday plus 5 additional for Christmas

Flexible working arrangements

Access to training and development opportunities

Qualifications

• Experience undertaking ecological surveys and habitat monitoring.
• Strong knowledge of river ecology and freshwater ecosystems.
• Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel.

Responsibilities

• Lead and support ecological surveys and monitoring.
• Assist with report writing and data analysis.
• Support stakeholder engagement and community-based conservation efforts.

Skills

Data handling

Communication

Teamwork

Organisational skills

Education

Degree in Ecology, Environmental Science, or related subject

Tools

Ecological monitoring software

Job description

About Forth Rivers Trust

Forth Rivers Trust is an environmental charity dedicated to protecting and improving rivers, wildlife, and communities across the Forth District. We deliver projects that support climate resilience, biodiversity, and sustainable land use by working in partnership with land managers, communities, and public and private sector organisations.

Role Summary

We are seeking a motivated and skilled Ecologistto strengthen our Science Team and Consultancy. This role will play a central part in delivering ecological monitoring and reporting across our project portfolio and supporting our growing consultancy work. The postholder will also contribute to hands-on delivery of nature-based solutions such as tree planting, wetland creation, and river restoration.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and support ecological surveys and monitoring across the Forth
• Assist with report writing, data analysis, and impact evaluation
• Support our consultancy arm through contract delivery
• Undertake ecological surveys and assist in protected species work where qualified
• Deliver practical project work such as wetland construction and habitat creation
• Support stakeholder engagement and community-based conservation efforts.

Person Specification

Essential

• Degree in Ecology, Environmental Science, or a related subject
• Experience undertaking ecological surveys and habitat monitoring
• Strong data handling and reporting skills
• Strong knowledge of river ecology and freshwater ecosystems
• Excellent data collection and analysis skills, including proficiency with relevant software and tools
• Good communicator with strong teamwork, organisational skills, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively
• Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel across the Forth catchment.

Desirable

• Electrofishing certification and experience in carrying out fish rescues
• Experience in macroinvertebrate monitoring using accredited methods
• Phase 1 habitat or UKHAB experience
• Protected species licence(s)
• Working knowledge of environmental regulations relevant to freshwater habitats
• CSCS card holder
• Ecological clerk of works (ECoW) experience.

Why Join Us?

• Work on meaningful environmental projects
• Be part of a collaborative and dynamic team
• Flexible working arrangements
• Access to training and development opportunities
• 9% pension
• 32 days holiday (inc. bank holidays) and an additional 5 days set aside for Christmas.

How to Apply

Please send a CV and cover letter (max 2 pages) outlining your suitability for the role to [e-mail] Friday 20th June at 9am. Interviews will be held w/c 30thJune.

Salary: £26,480 – £28,935 dependant on experience
Requirements: Full Clean Driving license. Right to work in the UK.

Key dates

Closing date: Friday 20th June 9am
Interviews: w/c 30th June 2025
Start date: Monday 28th July 2025