Principal Ecologist: Biodiversity Lead & Project Manager

SLR Consulting; Glasgow; Hybrid; GBP 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Discretionary bonus

Company pension

Private medical insurance

Life insurance

Cycle-to-work scheme

Hybrid working

25 days leave

Job summary

SLR Consulting in Scotland is seeking a Principal Ecologist to lead the Ecology & Biodiversity team from our Glasgow base, with options for Edinburgh or remote Scotland. The role blends field ecology, project management, and client engagement in a supportive, technically strong environment.

You will mentor staff, deliver Biodiversity Net Gain work, and help develop our Scotland-wide ecology capability while maintaining high standards across renewable energy, grid infrastructure and habitat

Qualifications

• Strong experience in habitat surveys across upland habitats.
• Knowledge of ecological impact assessments and environmental planning.
• Understanding of Birds and Habitats Directives and designated sites.
• Experience with NVC/UKHab surveys and assessments.

Responsibilities

• Design, manage and deliver ecological and habitat restoration surveys.
• Coordinate specialist habitat surveys, analysis and reporting (NVC/UKHab).
• Support Biodiversity Net Gain work and expand service area.
• Lead ecology and peat projects, ensuring high technical standards and budgets.
• Prepare Ecological Assessments, Habitats Regulations Assessments and reports.
• Coordinate tender submissions and client engagement.

Skills

Habitat surveys

Project management

Mentoring & line management

Client engagement

Biodiversity Net Gain

Team leadership

Ecology expertise

Regulatory compliance

Education

Higher degree in ecology

Job description

SLR Consulting in Scotland is seeking a Principal Ecologist to lead the Ecology & Biodiversity team from our Glasgow base, with options for Edinburgh or remote Scotland. The role blends field ecology, project management, and client engagement in a supportive, technically strong environment.

You will mentor staff, deliver Biodiversity Net Gain work, and help develop our Scotland-wide ecology capability while maintaining high standards across renewable energy, grid infrastructure and habitat