Principal Aquatic Ecologist

ZipRecruiter; Glasgow; Hybrid; GBP 44,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading environmental consultancy is seeking a Principal Aquatic Ecologist to join their team in Scotland. This role involves technical leadership, project management, and team development within a purpose-led organization. The ideal candidate will have substantial experience in freshwater ecology and a collaborative approach to guide the team forward.

Benefits

25 days annual leave + Scottish bank holidays

20 days CPD annually

Paid professional membership fees

Flexible hours and hybrid working

Private healthcare

Company pension scheme

Paid lunch and TOIL scheme

UK relocation assistance

Qualifications

• 5-10 years' experience in freshwater aquatic ecology.
• In-depth understanding of EIA and water quality monitoring.
• Chartered status desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead the freshwater aquatics team ensuring quality and compliance.
• Oversee project delivery from conception to completion.
• Manage client and stakeholder relationships.

Skills

Technical expertise

People leadership

Project management

Business development

Education

Degree in Environmental Science

Professional membership (CIEEM, CIWEM, IEMA)

Job description

Job Description

Job Title: Principal Aquatic Ecologist

Location: Scotland - Glasgow or Perth (Hybrid Working Available)

Salary: £44,000 - £50,000

Sector: Environmental Consultancy | Ecology | Water Services

The Opportunity

A forward-thinking, sustainability-focused environmental consultancy is seeking an experienced Principal Aquatic Ecologist to join its growing team in Scotland. This role offers a unique opportunity to play a key leadership role within a well-established freshwater ecology team, shaping technical direction and contributing directly to the success and culture of the business.

With a strong reputation for practical, impactful solutions in environmental consultancy, the organisation is driven by a mission to deliver work that goes beyond compliance—making a genuine difference to both nature and the communities it serves.

The Role

As Principal Aquatic Ecologist, you'll take the lead in developing the Scottish aquatics practice—steering technical delivery, team development, and client engagement. This is an ideal role for a consultant looking to take the next step in their leadership journey, with the autonomy to shape your team and influence strategy.

Key responsibilities include:

1. Technical leadership of the freshwater aquatics team, ensuring quality and compliance with UK regulations
2. Oversight of project delivery, from conception to completion, across a diverse range of aquatic ecology work
3. Identification of new business opportunities and market trends
4. Management of client and stakeholder relationships
5. Mentoring and developing team members to achieve professional and personal growth
6. Leading on tenders, budgeting, and resource planning

About You

To thrive in this role, you'll need a mix of technical expertise and people leadership. You're someone who enjoys sharing knowledge, guiding others, and building positive relationships—both internally and externally.

Essential Experience & Qualifications:

• 5-10 years' experience in freshwater aquatic ecology
• Degree or equivalent in Environmental Science, Ecology, or related discipline
• Professional membership (e.g., CIEEM, CIWEM, IEMA); Chartered status desirable
• In-depth understanding of EIA, water quality monitoring, and freshwater survey methods
• Experience preparing and reviewing HRA assessments
• Demonstrated project management and business development skills
• Strong working knowledge of relevant UK legislation and best practices
• Full UK driving licence

Desirable: SFCC, Electrofishing qualification, or NatureScot protected species licences; experience managing subconsultants and multidisciplinary teams.

What's on Offer

This is more than just a job—it's a chance to become a key figure in a purpose-led, people-first business. You'll be supported by a collaborative leadership team that values your input and invests in your growth.

Benefits include:

• 25 days annual leave + Scottish bank holidays (increases with tenure)
• 20 days CPD annually
• Paid professional membership fees
• Flexible hours and hybrid working
• Private healthcare
• Company pension scheme
• Paid lunch and TOIL scheme
• UK relocation assistance available for the right candidate