Senior Ecologist / Ornithologist
| Posting date: | 12 September 2025 |
|---|---|
| Salary: | £30,000.0 to £45,000.0 per year |
| Additional salary information: | £30,000 - £45,000 (DOE) |
| Hours: | Full time |
| Closing date: | 12 October 2025 |
| Location: | Edinburgh , M1 1AA |
| Company: | Hays Specialist Recruitment |
| Job type: | Permanent |
| Job reference: | 4723517_1757673696 |
Summary
Your new company
A growing ecological consultancy is seeking a skilled ecologist to support a diverse portfolio of renewable energy, residential, commercial, and infrastructure projects.
The team is involved in some of the most ambitious clean energy developments in the region, including offshore and onshore wind, solar, and biodiversity-focused planning.
Your new role
The main responsibilities of this role will include:
- Design and lead protected species surveys for major development projects
- Author ecological reports including PEA, EcIA, EIA, HRA, BNG, LEMPs, and CEMPs
- Conduct Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) assessments, including habitat condition surveys and metric calculations
- Develop and implement mitigation strategies, including licencing for bats, great crested newts, dormice, badgers, and water voles.
- Prepare fee proposals and contribute to tenders
- Manage project delivery, including client liaison and financial oversight
- Support junior team members through mentoring and work shadowing
What you'll need to succeed
- Strong knowledge of UK Habitat Classification and habitat condition assessments
- Experience designing and delivering ecological surveys and mitigation strategies
- Familiarity with protected species licencing and Ecological Clerk of Works (ECoW) duties
- Excellent communication and time management skills
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a small team
- Full UK driving licence with willingness to travel (some overnight stays may be required)
- Degree in Ecology or a related field (Bachelor's or Master's)
- Eligibility for CIEEM membership
- At least one protected species survey licence (e.g. bats or great crested newts preferred)
What you'll get in return
- Salary range: £30,000 - £45,000 (depending on experience)
- Flexible working hours and TOIL scheme
- Hybrid working options
- Ongoing training and professional development
What you need to do now
If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now.
If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career.
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