Location
Edinburgh, with projects across Scotland and Ireland.

Hours
Full Time

Salary
Negotiable

About the Role
We are currently looking for a Senior Ecologist to join our growing Nature Services team. You’ll work alongside a supportive network of technical specialists on a rich variety of projects across Scotland and Ireland. This role requires an enthusiastic and adaptable individual who is eager to learn, grow, and support the development of others. Our portfolio of ecology projects is extensive and rapidly evolving, and WSP is helping to lead this change by working with clients, government, planners, and consultees to shape better outcomes for nature, society, and the environment. Joining our team means you’ll be at the forefront of delivery while receiving full support to build your expertise, confidence, and develop into a highly skilled ecological practitioner.

As a Senior Ecologist, you will plan and undertake ecology surveys including Phase 1/UKHab habitat surveys and protected species surveys (badger, otter, bat, amphibians, reptiles, etc). You will prepare a range of ecological deliverables such as Protected Species Reports, Preliminary Ecological Appraisals, Ecological Impact Assessments, Habitats Regulations Appraisals, technical reports, and mitigation licence applications. The role involves client liaison, project management, consultation and negotiation with regulators and stakeholders. You will mentor junior team members and contribute to a supportive and productive working environment. Participation in team meetings and national initiatives is expected, alongside continuous professional development supported by colleagues and formal training. You will have the opportunity to develop specific skillsets and share technical knowledge and innovations with colleagues.

You will collaborate closely with colleagues across Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Belfast, contributing to a wide range of projects including nationally significant infrastructure projects, renewable energy developments, utility refurbishment programmes, and smaller flood defence, active travel, and green spaces projects. You will also work alongside experts in Biodiversity Net Gain, natural capital, ornithology, freshwater and marine ecology, arboriculture, landscape architecture, hydrology, engineering, and geotechnical specialisms.

Imagine a better future for you and a better future for us all. Work on landmark projects around the world and embrace opportunities to make an even bigger impact in the communities you care about. What if you could do the best work of your life and create a legacy for yourself? With us, you can. Apply today.

Experience
Proven relevant experience gained within a professional consultancy, regulatory, and/or industrial role(s). Experience planning and undertaking ecology desk-based and field surveys within the UK, including botanical survey, habitat classification, and protected species surveys across a broad range of habitats and seasons. Experience producing high quality, technically and scientifically robust ecological reports and project deliverables such as Preliminary Ecological Appraisals, Ecological Impact Assessments, Protected Species Reports, and Habitats Regulations Appraisals. Experience with client liaison, project management, and consultation with regulators and stakeholders. Experience mentoring junior team members is desirable.

Technical knowledge of relevant ecology policy and guidance, particularly within Scotland, and use of GIS (ArcGIS or QGIS) is advantageous. A technical specialism or species survey licence is a plus. Experience or interest in quality assurance of technical deliverables is also advantageous.

About you
An enthusiastic and adaptable individual with a willingness to learn, develop, and support others. Strong communication and organisation skills. A desire to develop core ecological and consultancy skills while being supported by a team of ecologists and environmental professionals.

Qualifications
A relevant academic qualification in ecology or a related subject. Full membership of CIEEM or eligibility to apply.