Senior Ecologist (Affric Ltd)

Affric Ltd; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading environmental consultancy based in the UK is seeking an experienced ecologist with strong knowledge of Scottish terrestrial ecology. The role involves conducting ecological surveys, writing reports, and supporting clients in the energy and infrastructure sectors. Ideal candidates will hold a degree in ecology, have 3+ years of experience, and possess excellent communication skills. Benefits include training opportunities, flexible working hours, and a supportive team environment.

Benefits

25 days of annual leave plus public holidays

Health Care Scheme

Payment of professional membership fees

Flexible working options

Qualifications

• At least 3 years of relevant work experience.
• Working towards or holding membership with an appropriate institute (e.g., CIEEM).
• Capability to complete extended Phase 1 habitat surveys.
• Possess a full, clean UK manual driving license.

Responsibilities

• Specifying and carrying out ecological surveys.
• Authoring reports and applying for protected species licenses.
• Providing Ecological Clerk of Works (ECoW) support.
• Contributing to HRA Pre-screening reports and EIA chapters.

Skills

Strong knowledge of Scottish terrestrial ecology

Advanced field skills in specialized areas

Strong report writing and communication skills

Flexible working attitude

Education

Degree in ecology or a related field

Tools

CSCS card and safety qualifications

Job description

The role is primarily based in the energy and infrastructure sectors, providing ecological input as part of multidisciplinary teams to deliver projects from initial feasibility through planning, procurement, construction, operation, and in some cases, decommissioning. The ideal candidate will have strong knowledge of Scottish terrestrial ecology and an understanding of the construction sector. Responsibilities include delivering tasks safely and on time to the required standards. Due to the dynamic nature of our client’s operations, flexible working may be required, but arrangements can be made to benefit the candidate, client, and business.

The starting position and salary will depend on the successful candidate’s experience. Future progression is encouraged and based on performance. Relevant training opportunities for personal and professional development are available.

The role includes, but is not limited to:

• Specifying ecological surveys;
• Carrying out ecological surveys (aligned with candidate’s specialization);
• Authoring reports;
• Applying for protected species licenses;
• Contributing to HRA Pre-screening reports;
• Contributing to EIA chapters; and
• Providing Ecological Clerk of Works (ECoW) support.

The successful candidate will be based in the Affric Office, Inverness/Stirling, but travel may be required to meet client needs.

Qualifications / Experience

The candidate should have at least 3 years of relevant work experience, a proactive attitude, practical mindset, and the ability to work independently and as part of a team. They should also:

• Hold a degree (or higher) in ecology or a related field;
• Be working towards or have membership with an appropriate institute (e.g., CIEEM);
• Be capable of completing extended Phase 1 habitat surveys;
• Have advanced field skills in one or more specialist areas;
• Ideally hold or be working towards a protected species license;
• Possess a good understanding of Scottish wildlife legislation;
• Have strong report writing and communication skills;
• Hold a valid CSCS card and safety qualifications such as First Aid;
• Possess a full, clean UK manual driving license; and
• Experience in undertaking an EnvCoW/ECoW role is advantageous.

Benefits of working with us include:

• A close-knit, friendly, and supportive team with a positive office environment;
• Provision of external and internal training;
• 25 days of annual leave plus public holidays;
• Health Care Scheme;
• Payment of professional membership fees; and
• Flexible working options and encouragement of work-life balance.