Principal Ecologist - #2163450

------------- A senior leadership role in an independent consultancy that is built around its people -------------

What our staff say:

• “The hard work you put in is always recognised, whereas in the past at larger companies it’s easier to go by unnoticed and unappreciated.”
• “I have more of a voice here than I did whilst working at larger consultancies.”
• “I am always encouraged to take my leave and my line manager always reminds me to put personal life and my family first!”
• “I always have a feeling that my thoughts, abilities, etc are trusted and respected.”

Technical Director / Associate Director / Principal Ecologist (Edinburgh)

Location: Edinburgh, with work across the Central Belt, Borders, Highlands and Northern England

Working pattern: Hybrid and flexible, with in-person time as the work requires

Salary: competitive depending on level + annual discretionary bonus + benefits

We are looking for an experienced ecologist to help lead and grow our Edinburgh ecology team.

This is a senior, hands-on role where you’ll shape the direction of the discipline across the region, work closely with the Senior Leadership Team, and have a real say in how we develop as a business.

Our client has been in business for almost 20 years! We work across wind, grid infrastructure, built environment, some minerals and research, and our clients include NatureScot, Natural England, national park authorities and local councils.

Our teams are small enough that your voice is heard and your work is seen, and large enough to offer real variety and stretching projects.

We fit the role around the person, not the other way round. Your title and remit will depend on your skills, ambitions and how you want to lead. Some colleagues focus deeply on one specialism. Others build broad skill sets across habitats, biodiversity net gain, impact assessment, peatland, ornithology and project management. We encourage both.

Why this role is different

• You won’t start from scratch. There is existing work for you to deliver, and a team of work-winning colleagues to share it with.
• Influence without a fixed mould. You’ll help set standards, develop people and shape how the team works, with the freedom to grow in the direction that suits you.
• Access to the best work. Our planning and consents teams bring in the most interesting projects, so you’ll work on a wide mix of sectors and clients.
• A one-team culture. We work closely across disciplines and offices, with regular team days, socials and training.
• Development that’s real. Annual personal development reviews, regular check-ins with your line manager and a buddying and mentoring scheme sit alongside clear progression.

What you’ll do

• Lead complex, non-routine ecology projects as project manager or director, and direct junior staff on less complex work
• Provide strategic and project-specific ecology advice to clients and project teams
• Develop and mentor the Edinburgh ecology team, and support their career goals
• Support business development, including client relationships, proposals and bids, and strategic partnerships
• Help manage team resourcing, budgets, programmes and financial performance, including order book, utilisation and profitability
• Contribute to the Atmos Communities of Practice and the wider ‘one-team’ approach across the business
• Act as a peer reviewer and champion health and safety, quality and professional standards

Who we’re looking for

• A BSc or MSc in a relevant subject and at least six years’ consultancy experience
• Experience across one or more of: habitat and protected species survey and assessment, biodiversity net gain, ornithology, peatland, hydrology, or ECoW/EnvCoW work
• Experience of species licensing (for example bats, great crested newts, otters, water voles or badgers) is a strong plus, and a bat licence would be especially valued at senior level
• CIEEM Associate or Full Member, or equivalent
• Confidence leading both technically and commercially, with a flair for client care and business development
• Good interpersonal skills, with the ability to advise clients and support junior colleagues
• A full current UK driving licence and good health and safety awareness

What we offer

• Competitive salary, plus an annual discretionary performance bonus
• 25 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays, and a pension scheme
• Flexible benefits, including an employee assistance programme, cycle to work and tax-free childcare schemes, and a cashback scheme
• A modern, friendly and flexible working environment
• Real career progression, supported by buddying and mentoring
• Time and encouragement to take your leave and look after your personal life

The next step

The process is informal and conversational. We’d rather get to know you than run a rigid interview. You can meet in person or on Teams, and you’re welcome to send questions in advance.

Please reach out to Jim Merryfield at CleanTech Talent for a confidential call.

CleanTech Talent are acting as the exclusive employment agency for this position.