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- Tasks: Lead ecological surveys and manage restoration projects across Scotland.
- Company: Zulu Ecosystems focuses on regenerating natural ecosystems for a thriving planet and communities.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible work options, innovative projects, and the chance to make a real impact.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team dedicated to biodiversity and climate solutions while working in beautiful natural settings.
- Qualifications: A love for nature, survey skills, GIS proficiency, and project management experience are essential.
- Other info: Fieldwork and desk-based tasks; travel within Scotland required.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Zulu Ecosystems' mission is to responsibly regenerate natural ecosystems so that the planet and its communities can thrive. We combine proprietary technology and domain expertise with on-the-ground relationships to mobilise landowners, investors, government bodies, and communities around large-scale nature programmes. Our primary focus in Scotland is on natural regeneration of ancient woodlands, native woodland creation, and peatland restoration. All our projects seek to achieve the highest overall impact in terms of biodiversity, water regulation, carbon sequestration, and local community benefits.
As Lead Ecologist, you will oversee ecological surveys and ground truth our analytics to support the design and delivery of projects across Scotland and beyond. As a member of the Operations team, your work will contribute to planning, designing, implementing, and monitoring restoration projects. You will work closely with a multidisciplinary team including R&D and Origination teams to quantify and ensure synergy between project interventions and ecosystem outcomes.
You will:
- Support programme managers by defining and designing surveys for ecosystem restoration and creation projects.
- Design, undertake, and supervise ongoing monitoring, reporting, and verification of projects.
- Analyze survey data to derive insights for project advancement.
- Manage multiple projects concurrently.
- Maintain high standards of ecological integrity and project quality, while being adaptable and practical.
- Communicate and collaborate with stakeholders, including landowners and land managers, and guide internal stakeholders on process improvements.
- Support development of new tools/technology to enhance site assessment, project design, and monitoring.
- Contribute to research on biodiversity indicators and ecosystem uplift, translating best practices between fieldwork and academic research.
- Adhere to workplace health and safety standards.
This role involves both desk-based work and fieldwork, including baseline assessments, monitoring, and reporting. You will work directly with stakeholders and play a key role in driving innovation and efficiency.
Essential requirements
- A passion for nature and a commitment to addressing climate and biodiversity crises.
- Ability to work alone in remote environments.
- Proven skills in habitat and species survey techniques (e.g., NVC, UKHab, species-specific surveys).
- Knowledge of survey methods for managing sub-contracts.
- Proficiency in GIS, digital data collection, analysis, and report writing.
- Experience managing multiple projects and sub-contracts.
- Ability to develop new assessment methodologies with robust frameworks.
- Understanding of environmental legislation and best practices.
- Experience with Python, QGIS, or similar data analysis tools.
- Excellent communication skills for conveying complex ecological concepts.
- Driver's license and willingness to travel within Scotland and occasionally elsewhere in the UK.
Desirable skills
- Experience with NVC, breeding bird surveys, protected species, herbivore impact assessments, peatland assessments.
- Willingness to deliver survey training.
- Membership or progression towards membership of CIEEM.
- Interest in policy and industry discussions.
- Proficiency with project management tools.
- Proximity to Inverness office.
Lead Ecologist employer: Zulu Ecosystems
Contact Detail:
Zulu Ecosystems Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Ecologist
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the ecology and environmental sectors. Attend relevant conferences, workshops, or local meetups to connect with others who share your passion for nature and restoration projects. This can help you learn about job openings and gain insights into the industry.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with Zulu Ecosystems' current projects and initiatives. Understanding their mission and specific focus areas will allow you to tailor your conversations and demonstrate your genuine interest in their work during interviews or networking opportunities.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your practical experience in ecological surveys and data analysis. Engage in volunteer work or internships that allow you to apply your skills in real-world settings, as this hands-on experience can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on the latest trends and technologies in ecology and environmental restoration. Being knowledgeable about new tools and methodologies can demonstrate your commitment to innovation and efficiency, which is crucial for a role like Lead Ecologist.
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Ecologist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Lead Ecologist position. Tailor your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with Zulu Ecosystems' mission and the specific tasks outlined in the job description.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your experience with habitat and species survey techniques, project management, and any relevant tools like GIS or Python. Provide specific examples of past projects where you demonstrated these skills.
Show Your Passion: Zulu Ecosystems values a passion for nature and commitment to addressing climate and biodiversity crises. Make sure to convey your enthusiasm for ecological work and how it aligns with their mission in your application materials.
Proofread and Format: Ensure your application is well-organised and free from errors. Use clear headings, bullet points for easy reading, and a professional format. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at Zulu Ecosystems
✨Show Your Passion for Nature
Make sure to express your genuine passion for nature and commitment to addressing climate and biodiversity crises. Share personal experiences or projects that highlight your dedication to ecological restoration.
✨Demonstrate Technical Skills
Be prepared to discuss your proficiency in habitat and species survey techniques, GIS, and data analysis tools like Python and QGIS. Bring examples of past projects where you successfully applied these skills.
✨Highlight Project Management Experience
Since the role involves managing multiple projects, be ready to talk about your experience in project management. Discuss how you've handled concurrent projects and any challenges you faced, along with how you overcame them.
✨Communicate Effectively
Excellent communication skills are essential for this role. Practice explaining complex ecological concepts in a clear and concise manner. Think of ways to convey your ideas to different stakeholders, including landowners and internal teams.
