Principal Ecologist - Ornithology

Eden Scott; Glasgow; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 57,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading UK-based environmental consultancy is seeking a Principal Ecologist specializing in Ornithology to join their dynamic team. This position offers a flexible working environment and is ideal for experienced ecologists looking to step into a leadership role. Responsibilities include managing fieldwork, developing survey programmes, and providing mentorship. The role also offers a competitive salary between £50,500 to £57,000, plus various benefits.

Benefits

Flexible working environment

Structured career progression

Company-paid life assurance

Contributory pension scheme

Health cash plan and discounted gym memberships

Option to purchase additional annual leave

Qualifications

• Proven experience in ornithology within a consultancy or similar environment.
• Experience producing survey reports, EcIAs, HRAs, and tenders.
• Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle.

Responsibilities

• Leading and managing ornithological fieldwork across the UK.
• Designing and delivering bird survey programmes.
• Developing mitigation strategies and ecological assessments.
• Writing tenders, reports, and managing project delivery.
• Providing high-level support to the wider ecology team.
• Financial oversight and project management responsibilities.
• Supporting and mentoring junior team members.

Skills

Experienced in bird survey methodologies

Independent worker and strong collaborator

Passionate about ecological outcomes

Education

Eligible for or a member of CIEEM

Job description

Principal Ecologist - Ornithology

Location: Glasgow or Stirling (Flexible/Home-Based)
Salary: £50,500-£57,000 (DOE) + Benefits

Ready to take the next step in your ecology career?
Are you a driven and experienced Ecologist with a passion for Ornithology, looking to move into a Principal-level role? Or perhaps you're seeking a new challenge where your expertise will be truly valued?

A leading UK-based environmental consultancy is looking for an ambitious Principal Ecologist (Ornithology) to join their dynamic ecology team.

This is an exciting opportunity to step into a senior leadership position with an organisation known for its technical excellence, collaborative culture, and commitment to high-quality ecological outcomes.

What You'll Be Doing

• Leading and managing ornithological fieldwork across the UK


• Designing and delivering bird survey programmes (BBS, winter, species-specific, vantage point, offshore, etc.)


• Developing mitigation strategies and ecological assessments (EcIAs, HRAs)


• Writing tenders, reports, and managing project delivery


• Providing high-level support to the wider ecology team


• Financial oversight and project management responsibilities


• Supporting and mentoring junior team members

Who We're Looking For

You're someone who is:

• Technically experienced in a wide range of bird survey methodologies


• Comfortable working independently, but also a strong collaborator


• Looking to grow into a Principal role or expand your impact at that level


• Passionate about high standards in fieldwork, client service, and ecology outcomes

Requirements

• Proven experience in ornithology within a consultancy or similar environment


• Experience producing survey reports, EcIAs, HRAs, and tenders


• Eligible for or already a member of CIEEM


• A full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle

What's in It for You?

• Flexible, supportive working environment


• Structured career progression with access to regular training


• Competitive salary: £50,500 to £57,000 (depending on experience)


• Company-paid life assurance


• Contributory pension scheme


• Health cash plan and discounted gym memberships


• Option to purchase additional annual leave

If you're an ambitious Senior Ecologist ready to take the next step-or already operating at Principal level-we'd love to hear from you.

Apply now to join a consultancy where your skills and ambition will be truly supported.