Job Title: Principal Aquatic Ecologist
Location: Scotland - Glasgow or Perth (Hybrid Working Available)
Salary: £44,000 - £50,000 DOE
Sector: Environmental Consultancy | Ecology | Water Services
The Opportunity
A forward-thinking, sustainability-focused environmental consultancy is seeking an experienced Principal Aquatic Ecologist to join its growing team in Scotland. This role offers a unique opportunity to play a key leadership role within a well-established freshwater ecology team, shaping technical direction and contributing directly to the success and culture of the business.
With a strong reputation for practical, impactful solutions in environmental consultancy, the organisation is driven by a mission to deliver work that goes beyond compliance-making a genuine difference to both nature and the communities it serves.
The Role
As Principal Aquatic Ecologist, you'll take the lead in developing the Scottish aquatics practice-steering technical delivery, team development, and client engagement. This is an ideal role for a consultant looking to take the next step in their leadership journey, with the autonomy to shape your team and influence strategy.
Key responsibilities include:
* Technical leadership of the freshwater aquatics team, ensuring quality and compliance with UK regulations
* Oversight of project delivery, from conception to completion, across a diverse range of aquatic ecology work
* Identification of new business opportunities and market trends
* Management of client and stakeholder relationships
* Mentoring and developing team members to achieve professional and personal growth
* Leading on tenders, budgeting, and resource planning
About You
To thrive in this role, you'll need a mix of technical expertise and people leadership. You're someone who enjoys sharing knowledge, guiding others, and building positive relationships-both internally and externally.
Essential Experience & Qualifications:
* 5-10 years' experience in freshwater aquatic ecology
* Degree or equivalent in Environmental Science, Ecology, or related discipline
* Professional membership (e.g., CIEEM, CIWEM, IEMA); Chartered status desirable
* In-depth understanding of EIA, water quality monitoring, and freshwater survey methods
* Experience preparing and reviewing HRA assessments
* Demonstrated project management and business development skills
* Strong working knowledge of relevant UK legislation and best practices
* Full UK driving licence
Desirable:
* SFCC Electrofishing qualification or NatureScot protected species licences
* Experience managing subconsultants and multidisciplinary teams
What's on Offer
This is more than just a job - it's a chance to become a key figure in a purpose-led, people-first business. You'll be supported by a collaborative leadership team that values your input and invests in your growth.
Benefits include:
* 25 days annual leave + Scottish bank holidays (increases with tenure)
* 20 days CPD annually
* Paid professional membership fees
* Flexible hours and hybrid working
* Private healthcare
* Company pension scheme
* Paid lunch and TOIL scheme
* UK relocation assistance available for the right candidate
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