Senior Ecologist: Lead Surveys, Reports & Mentorship

WSP; Easter Howgate; On-site; GBP 42,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

WSP is seeking a Senior Ecologist to join our growing Nature Services team across Scotland and Ireland. You’ll plan and deliver ecology surveys, lead project tasks, mentor junior colleagues, and help secure licences and consents for complex developments.

You’ll collaborate closely with clients, regulators and stakeholders to shape positive biodiversity outcomes. With support from a multidisciplinary network, you’ll deepen technical expertise, contribute to national initiatives, and develop

Qualifications

• Relevant ecology qualification required.
• Full CIEEM membership or eligible to apply.
• Experience planning and carrying out desk-based and field ecology surveys in the UK.
• Proven ability to produce robust ecological reports and other deliverables.
• Experience in consultancy/regulatory/industrial environments with strong communication.
• GIS knowledge (ArcGIS or QGIS) advantageous.
• Specialist licence or expertise is an advantage.
• QA experience of technical deliverables is beneficial.
• Desire to develop core ecological and consultancy skills within a supportive team.

Responsibilities

• Plan and undertake ecology surveys including Phase 1/UKHab and protected species surveys.
• Prepare a range of ecological deliverables (Protected Species Reports, Preliminary Ecological Appraisals).
• Prepare tenders and reports (Ecological Impact Assessments, Habitats Regulations Appraisals, licences).
• Undertake client liaison and project management.
• Consult and negotiate with regulators and stakeholders.
• Mentor junior team members and foster a positive working environment.
• Participate in team meetings and national initiatives.
• Pursue professional development with support from colleagues.
• Share knowledge and opportunities for learning and innovation.

Skills

Ecology surveys

GIS (ArcGIS/QGIS)

Communication

Project management

Mentoring juniors

Education

Ecology or related subject

Tools

UKHab surveys

Job description

WSP is seeking a Senior Ecologist to join our growing Nature Services team across Scotland and Ireland. You’ll plan and deliver ecology surveys, lead project tasks, mentor junior colleagues, and help secure licences and consents for complex developments.

You’ll collaborate closely with clients, regulators and stakeholders to shape positive biodiversity outcomes. With support from a multidisciplinary network, you’ll deepen technical expertise, contribute to national initiatives, and develop