Principal Ecologist

Senior-Principal Ecologist
Hybrid - Scotland
£35,000 - £45,000 DOE

Our client, a respected environmental and land management organisation, is seeking a Senior to Principal Ecologist to join their expanding Scottish team. This is an excellent opportunity for an ecology professional looking to step into a leadership-focused role within a mission-driven, forward-thinking organisation.

The Role:
As a Senior or Principal Ecologist, you will take responsibility for leading ecological projects across Scotland, providing high-quality technical input, managing client relationships, and supporting the development of junior colleagues. You'll play a key part in delivering nature-positive outcomes, strengthening ecological strategy, and shaping future service growth.

Key Responsibilities:

Lead ecological surveys, assessments, and reporting across a range of habitats and project types

Oversee project delivery, ensuring high-quality outputs and compliance with legislation and best practice

Manage and nurture client relationships, acting as a trusted technical advisor

Guide, mentor, and support the development of early-career ecologists

Contribute to tenders, proposals, and business development activities

Represent ecology expertise in collaborative, multidisciplinary project teams

About You:

Strong professional experience in ecology at Senior or Principal level

Confident in delivering and reviewing ecological assessments and reports

Solid understanding of Scottish habitats, legislation, and planning systems

Excellent communication and project management skills

Protected species licences and specialist skills are advantageous

Full UK driving licence

What's on Offer:

Competitive salary £35,000 - £45,000 DOE

Hybrid working with flexibility on office/home balance

Supportive culture with opportunities for rapid progression

Meaningful work contributing to ecological enhancement across Scotland

For more information - Please call James Hardie at Penguin Recruitment
Only candidates based in UK and eligible to work in UK are allowed