At a Glance
- Tasks: Support biodiversity targets through data analysis and collaboration with public authorities.
- Company: Join Environmental Standards Scotland, a key player in environmental law compliance.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career development, and the chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for growth in a supportive team.
- Why this job: Be part of a vital mission to protect Scotland's nature and environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in quantitative analysis and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 49401 - 59152 £ per year.
Job Type: Permanent
Region: Scotland
Vicinity: Edinburgh
Salary: £49,401 - £59,152
Salary Description: New entrants are expected to start on the minimum pay band
Start Date: confirmed following successful pre‑employment checks which can take several weeks
Recruiter: Environmental Standards Scotland
Job Ref: 466579
Closing Date: 06/07/2026
About us
Environmental Standards Scotland’s (ESS) role is to monitor, investigate and secure public authorities’ compliance with environmental law in Scotland. We also scrutinise the effectiveness of environmental law and policy in Scotland and how it is implemented and applied. In our investigative and analytical reports, we may also identify instances where we consider there to be gaps in environmental protection legislation. ESS is an independent non‑ministerial office, accountable to the Scottish Parliament and overseen by a non‑executive board. It is part of the Scottish Administration and its employees are civil servants. Full details are available on the ESS website.
Our Strategy 2026-2031 sets out how we will work as an organisation to deliver our vision that ‘by holding public authorities to account, we will ensure that Scotland’s people and nature benefit from a high‑quality, healthy environment through improved compliance with and better implementation of effective environmental law’. ESS’ role is expanding to take on two new roles:
- scrutinising the Scottish Government’s delivery against the new statutory biodiversity and nature restoration targets which will be set under the Natural Environment (Scotland) Act 2026
- scrutinising local authorities’ reporting against climate change duties as set out in the Climate Change (Scotland) Act 2009
To deliver these duties and to manage this significant organisational change, ESS will be recruiting new posts over the next twelve months to establish a new team within the organisation to lead the development of work to deliver these roles, alongside related corporate services requirements.
Job description
We are recruiting a Senior Quantitative Analyst to support the development of our new scrutiny function for the statutory biodiversity and nature restoration targets which will be set under the Natural Environment (Scotland) Act 2026. This post will be managed by the new Principal Scrutiny Officer (nature recovery) and will play a crucial role in development of a new area of work for ESS. Professional guidance and support will be provided by the Head of Data and Quantitative Analysis.
Key responsibilities
- support the new Principal Scrutiny Officer and the Head of Data and Quantitative Analysis by developing our organisational understanding of proposed indicators and the data underpinning them for the biodiversity and nature restoration targets to be set under the Natural Environment (Scotland) Act 2026
- support the new Principal Scrutiny Officer (Nature Recovery) to build effective relationships with analysts and statisticians in public authorities and NGOs within the new department’s remit, to ensure that ESS is abreast of, and able to access, the latest data and evidence
- undertake policy-facing statistical work, including ad hoc analysis and interpretation of Scottish environmental data, independent analysis of progress towards the biodiversity and nature restoration targets and preparing briefing for senior officials and the ESS’ Chair and Board
- work with the existing data team (C1 Head of Data and Quantitative Analysis and B3 Senior Analyst) to embed good analytical practices across the organisation, including strong processes for quality assurance, data management and intelligent transparency
- be an active advocate for ESS’ Voluntary Application of the Code of Practice for Statistics by guiding others in appropriate practices for preparing, managing and using data
- engage with stakeholders and share statistical and analytical techniques to increase understanding and trust in ESS’ scrutiny work
- identify opportunities to develop statistical insights and reports that support wider organisational objectives
Application Further information on the job role and interview process can be found here.
Senior Quantitative Analyst (Nature Recovery) in Edinburgh employer: Environmental Standards Scotland (ESS)
Environmental Standards Scotland (ESS) is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to contribute to the vital work of ensuring compliance with environmental law in Scotland. With a strong commitment to employee development and a collaborative work culture, ESS provides its staff with the chance to engage in meaningful projects that directly impact biodiversity and nature recovery. Located in Edinburgh, employees benefit from a vibrant city atmosphere while working within a supportive civil service environment that values transparency and innovation.
Contact Details:
Environmental Standards Scotland (ESS) Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Quantitative Analyst (Nature Recovery) in Edinburgh
✨Get Involved in Local Environmental Initiatives
Dive into your local environmental scenes, like community clean-up projects or eco-focused events. Not only will you meet like-minded people, but it's a surefire way to showcase your passion and skills in environmental engineering tech.
✨Join Industry-Specific Organisations
Check out organisations like the Institution of Environmental Engineers for networking opportunities and resources. They often host events and seminars that can help us connect with key players in the industry, including potential employers like Environmental Standards Scotland (ESS).
✨Show Off Your Projects and Passion
Create a portfolio that highlights any relevant projects, whether it's coursework, internships, or personal initiatives. Share this online, perhaps even on platforms like GitHub or your own website, to grab the attention of hiring managers looking for talent like us.
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We think you need these skills to ace Senior Quantitative Analyst (Nature Recovery) in Edinburgh
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Technical Skills:When applying for a role in environmental engineering tech, make sure to highlight your technical skills like CAD software proficiency, data analysis, or modelling techniques. These are essential for the job and should stand out in your CV and cover letter, showing how you can contribute to projects at Environmental Standards Scotland (ESS).
Demonstrate Your Passion for Sustainability:In this field, showcasing your passion for sustainability and environmental protection can set you apart. Include any relevant projects, volunteer experience, or courses that underline your commitment to these causes. Environmental Standards Scotland (ESS) will appreciate candidates who genuinely care about making a difference.
Tailor Your Application to the Role:Don't just send a generic CV and cover letter. Make sure to tailor your application to the specific role of Senior Quantitative Analyst (Nature Recovery) at Environmental Standards Scotland (ESS). Highlight experiences that align directly with the job description and give concrete examples of your work to demonstrate that you’re the right fit for a full-time position.
Include Relevant Certifications:If you have certifications related to environmental engineering or technology, like LEED Accreditation or any relevant software certifications, make sure to mention them. These qualifications can boost your application and show that you’re serious about your professional development in this competitive field.
How to prepare for a job interview at Environmental Standards Scotland (ESS)
✨Brush Up on Environmental Regulations
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest environmental regulations and standards. In an environmental engineering tech role at Environmental Standards Scotland (ESS), you might be asked specific questions about compliance measures, so understanding these will definitely give you an edge.
✨Showcase Your Technical Skills
Prepare to demonstrate your proficiency with relevant tools and software, such as AutoCAD or GIS. You might be given a practical problem to solve during the interview, so it’s a great idea to brush up on these skills and perhaps even bring a portfolio of your projects to showcase your technical prowess.
✨Highlight Your Passion for Sustainability
In a full-time role, employers are looking for commitment and enthusiasm. Share your experiences, studies, or projects that reflect your passion for environmental sustainability. This will show Environmental Standards Scotland (ESS) that you're not just qualified but genuinely invested in the field.
✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions
Be ready for behavioural questions that assess how you handle teamwork, conflict, and project management. Think of examples from your studies or practical experiences where you tackled challenges effectively, showcasing both your technical and interpersonal skills.
