Senior Ecologist (Ornithology)

Eden Scott; Glasgow; Hybrid; GBP 36,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

An independent environmental consultancy is seeking a Senior Ecologist specializing in ornithology to lead impactful bird survey work. This role offers a unique opportunity to influence project design and policy decisions while mentoring junior ecologists. Join a supportive team that values flexibility and professional development, with generous CPD days and a positive culture. If you are passionate about ecology and looking for a role that balances fieldwork and leadership, this position is perfect for you.

Benefits

20 days of CPD annually

Paid professional memberships

Generous holiday allowance (25+ days + bank holidays)

Flexible hours with TOIL

5% Company pension

Qualifications

• 6+ years of experience in ecological consultancy with a focus on ornithology.
• Strong ID skills and experience with various bird survey types.

Responsibilities

• Lead bird-focused ecological assessments for planning and development projects.
• Design and deliver ornithological surveys and author technical reports.

Skills

Ornithology

Ecological Consultancy

Bird Survey Techniques

Technical Report Writing

Stakeholder Engagement

Job description

Senior Ecologist - Ornithology
? Location Flexible (Scotland-based) | ? Hybrid Working Available
? £36,000 - £48,000 + Benefits

Are you an experienced ornithologist looking to take your next step in a consultancy that values impact over box-ticking? Our client is an independent environmental consultancy on a mission to deliver practical, science-based solutions that genuinely support responsible development.

They're expanding their ecology team and looking for a Senior Ecologist with a focus on ornithology to lead bird survey work, mentor junior ecologists, and contribute to high-profile projects across the UK.

About the Role:

You'll be leading bird-focused ecological assessments for planning and development projects, with opportunities to influence project design and policy-level decisions. This includes:

• Designing, coordinating, and delivering ornithological surveys.


• Authoring technical reports, HRA/AA documents, and EcIA chapters.


• Engaging with statutory bodies and key stakeholders.


• Supporting tenders and contributing to client proposals.


• Mentoring junior team members and contributing to team development.

What You'll Bring:

• 6+ years of ecological consultancy experience, with a strong track record in ornithology.


• Excellent ID skills and experience with a range of survey types (including breeding bird, vantage point, and wintering bird surveys).


• Experience authoring ornithological impact assessments within EIAs and HRAs.


• Confident working independently and collaboratively across multi-disciplinary teams.


• Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel for fieldwork.

Why Join Us?

We offer a supportive, flexible environment where your work makes a difference. You'll benefit from:

• 20 days of CPD annually


• Paid professional memberships


• Generous holiday allowance (25+ days + bank holidays)


• Flexible hours with TOIL


• 5% Company pension


• Hybrid working and a positive, people-first culture

If you're looking for a role that balances fieldwork, leadership, and strategy-and where your voice will shape both projects and the future of the team-we'd love to hear from you.