Principal Ecologist - Ornithology
Location: Glasgow or Stirling (Flexible/Home-Based)
Salary: £50,500-£57,000 (DOE) + Benefits
Ready to take the next step in your ecology career?
Are you a driven and experienced Ecologist with a passion for Ornithology, looking to move into a Principal-level role? Or perhaps you're seeking a new challenge where your expertise will be truly valued?
A leading UK-based environmental consultancy is looking for an ambitious Principal Ecologist (Ornithology) to join their dynamic ecology team.
This is an exciting opportunity to step into a senior leadership position with an organisation known for its technical excellence, collaborative culture, and commitment to high-quality ecological outcomes.
What You'll Be Doing
1. Leading and managing ornithological fieldwork across the UK
2. Designing and delivering bird survey programmes (BBS, winter, species-specific, vantage point, offshore, etc.)
3. Developing mitigation strategies and ecological assessments (EcIAs, HRAs)
4. Writing tenders, reports, and managing project delivery
5. Providing high-level support to the wider ecology team
6. Financial oversight and project management responsibilities
7. Supporting and mentoring junior team members
Who We're Looking For
You're someone who is:
8. Technically experienced in a wide range of bird survey methodologies
9. Comfortable working independently, but also a strong collaborator
10. Looking to grow into a Principal role or expand your impact at that level
11. Passionate about high standards in fieldwork, client service, and ecology outcomes
Requirements
12. Proven experience in ornithology within a consultancy or similar environment
13. Experience producing survey reports, EcIAs, HRAs, and tenders
14. Eligible for or already a member of CIEEM
15. A full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle
What's in It for You?
16. Flexible, supportive working environment
17. Structured career progression with access to regular training
18. Competitive salary: £50,500 to £57,000 (depending on experience)
19. Company-paid life assurance
20. Contributory pension scheme
21. Health cash plan and discounted gym memberships
22. Option to purchase additional annual leave
If you're an ambitious Senior Ecologist ready to take the next step-or already operating at Principal level-we'd love to hear from you.