Senior Ecologist – Full-Time, Permanent
Location: Inverness, UK-based (with occasional travel)
Salary: £35,000 – £43,000 + benefits
A respected UK-wide environmental consultancy is seeking to appoint a Senior Ecologist to join their thriving Inverness office. With a headcount of 25 highly skilled ecologists, project managers, and senior staff, the Inverness team plays a central role in delivering diverse, high-profile projects across the country- from renewable energy and infrastructure to land development and conservation.
This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced ecologist ready to take the next step in their career. The role blends field expertise with project leadership, client engagement, and mentoring responsibilities, all within a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment.
About the Role
As a Senior Ecologist, you’ll lead the delivery of technically robust ecological surveys, assessments, and reports. You’ll manage complex projects, build strong client relationships, and support junior colleagues in their development. The consultancy encourages specialisation, so you’ll have the chance to deepen your expertise while contributing to innovation and best practice across the wider ecology team.
Staff development is a core priority. You’ll benefit from regular internal and external training, and participate in “communities of practice”- cross-office forums held both in person and via Teams to share knowledge, refine methodologies, and strengthen team cohesion across the UK.
Key Responsibilities
* Plan and manage ecological field surveys and Ecological Clerk of Works (ECoW) support
* Lead and deliver EcIA, HRA, and species/habitat reports to a high standard
* Manage medium to large-scale or complex projects, ensuring quality, timelines, and budget control
* Liaise confidently with clients, landowners, planners, and statutory agencies
* Provide mentoring and line management for 1-3 junior ecologists
* Maintain strong working knowledge of UK wildlife legislation and planning policy
* Offer technical guidance across specialist areas and contribute to internal training and quality systems
* Identify new business opportunities and help win work through proposals and client engagement
* Support marketing efforts such as thought leadership, events, and content writing
What We're Looking For
* A degree in ecology, environmental science, or a related discipline
* Proven experience in ecological consultancy, including project and client management
* Strong field skills and a good understanding of survey design, analysis, and reporting
* Membership of CIEEM (or working towards it)
* Confidence in communicating technical issues clearly, both verbally and in writing
* A proactive and adaptable approach to challenges, with strong attention to detail
* Experience supervising contractors and collaborating with multi-disciplinary teams
* A commitment to continuous professional development and ecological best practice
What’s in It for You
* £35,000 – £43,000 salary
* 25 days annual leave + bank holidays
* Flexible/hybrid working arrangements
* Structured path for professional development and progression
* Opportunities to specialise and become a recognised expert in your field
* Supportive leadership and a collaborative team culture
* Access to regular training and cross-office communities of practice
Interested?
Click apply now and send an up-to-date CV. Applications are review upon receipt.