Senior Ecologist
Wild Surveys Ltd

Wild Surveys Ltd is an ecological consultancy based in Renfrew, providing services and support across Scotland to a diverse portfolio of clients ranging from government bodies and nationwide construction companies to small-scale projects for private homeowners.

We are currently welcoming applications from experienced senior ecologists to join our team on a full-time and permanent basis. Flexible working arrangements will also be considered for applicants who wish to be employed on a part-time basis. As part of this role, you will be expected to:

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct ecological surveys and assessments across Scotland, ensuring compliance with project requirements and deadlines.
• Lead and coordinate fieldwork activities, including habitat assessments, species surveys, and ecological monitoring programs.
• Provide expert advice on ecological issues, legislation, and best practices to clients and project teams.
• Prepare detailed ecological reports, management plans, and impact assessments, presenting findings clearly and accurately.
• Liaise with regulatory authorities, clients, and the public, always representing the company professionally.
• Mentor and support junior staff, providing guidance and supervision as needed.
• Stay informed about emerging trends and technologies in ecology, incorporating new knowledge into projects.
• Maintain accurate project records and documentation in accordance with company procedures.
• Flexibility in working hours, especially during bat and GCN survey seasons, with occasional periods away from home.
• Assist in preparing and submitting fee proposals, ensuring accuracy and client satisfaction.
• Monitor projects for quality assurance purposes, as delegated by senior management.
• Undertake project management responsibilities, ensuring deliverable deadlines are met.

 The role will include aspects of both field and desk work, and therefore living within a reasonable commuting distance of our head office in Renfrew is essential.

A portion of our work every year also involves carrying out bat emergence surveys and great crested newt surveys and therefore a reasonable level of fitness and a willingness to work outside sociable hours is required; as is being a confident driver and holding a full valid driving licence.

 Essential:

• Relevant degree(s) in a related field and/or relevant experience.
• In-depth knowledge of ecology-related legislation and policy in Scotland, including species protection legislation and licensing requirements.
• Sound knowledge of ecological survey/assessment methods and good habitat survey and classification skills.
• Good species identification skills across a range of taxonomic groups.
• Understanding of the mitigation hierarchy in the licence application process.
• Familiarity with NPF4 and Biodiversity Net Gain calculations.
• CIEEM Membership.
• Full, clean UK driving licence, and access to your own vehicle.

Desirable:

• Licence holder for one or more protected species (e.g., bats, great crested newts, badgers).
• Named ecologist on one or more EPS mitigation/disturbance licences.
• Experience with EIAs, EcIAs, and providing ECoW services.

Benefits of working with Wild Surveys Ltd:

• Competitive salary.
• Increased pay rate for unsociable hours.
• Increasing holiday entitlement with each year of service.
• Company healthcare scheme.
• CPD sessions for all staff throughout the year.
• Career development opportunities.

Salary:

• Up to £40k pro-rata, depending on experience.

How to Apply:

Please forward your CV and cover letter by email to emma@wildsurveys.co.uk.

Please clearly state in your application when you are available to start, and where you are based.

We will contact you after reviewing your application.