Seasonal Field Ecologists

Purple Plover Consulting; Inverness; On-site; GBP 25,200 - 30,800; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Starting salary from £28,000 per annum pro-rata

Flexible working options

All fieldwork equipment provided

Mileage and accommodation expenses covered

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

A progressive environmental consultancy is seeking seasonal ecologists for the 2026 field season in Scotland. The role involves conducting protected species surveys and habitat assessments across breathtaking landscapes. Candidates should possess a degree in ecology or similar, along with practical survey experience and a UK driving licence. The position offers a salary starting at £28,000 pro-rata, flexible working options, and opportunities for professional development in a small team environment.

Qualifications

• Must have a degree in ecology, environmental science, or related field.
• Practical experience in protected species survey techniques is required.
• A valid UK driving licence is essential.

Responsibilities

• Conduct protected species surveys throughout Scotland.
• Perform habitat assessments and UKHAB classification.
• Contribute to ecological reports and licensing applications.

Skills

Practical experience in protected species survey techniques

Strong field identification

Problem-solving skills

Resilient and positive attitude

Comfortable working independently in challenging terrain

Education

Degree in ecology or environmental science

Protected species survey licences

Tools

QGIS or similar GIS software

CSCS Card

First Aid Certificate

4x4 driving experience

Job description

Purple Plover Consulting is a small but progressive, environmental consultancy specialising in protected species surveys and environmental assessments for major infrastructure projects across the Scottish Highlands and islands. We’re recruiting seasonal ecologists to join us for the 2026 field season.

The Role

You’ll conduct protected species surveys and habitat assessments throughout some of Scotland’s most spectacular landscapes, from the mainland Highlands to remote island locations. We work on diverse infrastructure projects including transmission lines, substations, and renewable energy developments. This is hands‑on ecology in challenging and rewarding environments.

Projects typically involve:

• Habitat assessments and UKHAB classification
• Pre‑construction ecological surveys for major infrastructure
• Supporting Environmental Clerks of Works during construction
• Contributing to ecological reports and licensing applications

About You

We value experience, but we value attitude more. Highland fieldwork can be demanding – there will be days when you’re standing on an exposed hillside in horizontal rain questioning your life choices. If you can stay positive, keep your sense of humour, and find satisfaction in the work even when conditions are challenging, you’ll fit right in.

• Degree in ecology, environmental science, or related field (or several years of demonstrable hands‑on experience)
• Practical experience in protected species survey techniques
• Full UK driving licence (essential – many survey sites are remote)
• Comfortable working independently in challenging terrain and weather
• Resilient, positive attitude and good problem‑solving skills
• Strong field identification and attention to detail
• Eligible to work in the UK (this is not a visa sponsorship role)
• Protected species survey licences (or working toward)
• Experience with upland/island habitats
• QGIS or similar GIS software
• 4x4 driving experience
• First Aid Certificate
• CSCS Card

What We Offer

• Starting salary from £28,000 per annum pro‑rata
• Seasonal contract: March through July/August (flexible end date depending on projects)
• Flexible working – part‑time options will be considered
• Small team environment with direct mentoring and varied project experience
• Work across the North of Scotland’s most stunning landscapes – including potential travel to the Hebrides, Orkney and Shetland
• All fieldwork equipment provided
• Mileage and accommodation expenses covered for away work
• Real responsibility and professional development opportunities

As a small consultancy, you’ll gain exposure to all aspects of ecological consultancy – not just surveys, but report writing, client liaison, and regulatory compliance. You’ll work directly with the business owners and develop skills that larger consultancies might take years to offer.

To Apply

Please send your CV and a brief covering letter (no more than two sides of A4) outlining your relevant experience and what attracts you to ecology work in the Scottish Highlands to [e-mail].

We’ll be reviewing applications on a rolling basis, so apply early to avoid disappointment.