Principal Ecologist in Edinburgh

We are looking for a Principal Ecologist to join our growing Ecology & Biodiversity team in Scotland. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced ecologist who shares our passion for the environment and is looking to take the next step in their career within a collaborative, supportive and technically strong team. You will join a busy team providing expert ecological advice and support across a diverse portfolio of projects, including renewable energy, grid infrastructure, natural capital and habitat restoration. The role offers considerable variety, combining technical ecology with project management, client engagement, team leadership and the opportunity to help develop our Biodiversity Net Gain capability and wider ecological services. Our preference is for this role to be based from our Glasgow office, although we will also consider candidates based in Edinburgh or working remotely elsewhere in Scotland. Office and remote-working arrangements can be discussed as part of the recruitment process.

Key responsibilities

• Designing, managing and delivering a range of ecological and habitat restoration surveys.
• Undertaking and overseeing specialist habitat survey, analysis and reporting, including National Vegetation Classification (NVC) and UKHab.
• Supporting the delivery of Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) work and working with colleagues to continue developing this area of our service.
• Project managing and coordinating the delivery of ecology and peat projects, ensuring work is delivered to a high technical standard, on time and within agreed budgets.
• Preparing and reviewing Ecological Assessments, Habitats Regulations Assessments and other technical reports.
• Preparing and coordinating high-quality tender and proposal submissions.
• Developing strong relationships with clients, regulators and statutory advisers.
• Providing line management, technical guidance and mentoring to colleagues.
• Supporting the continued development of our ecology capability in Scotland and contributing to the wider success of SLR’s Ecology & Biodiversity team.

About you

We are keen to hear from experienced ecologists who are enthusiastic about developing their careers with SLR. If you meet most, but not necessarily all, of the following requirements, we would encourage you to apply:

• Strong experience of undertaking habitat surveys across a variety of upland habitat types.
• Experience and understanding of the environmental planning system, including the preparation and delivery of ecological impact assessments.
• Demonstrable knowledge and understanding of the European Birds and Habitats Directives and assessment methods relating to European designated sites.
• Experience in NVC and/or UKHab survey and assessment.
• Proven people management and mentoring skills, combined with a flexible, collaborative and proactive approach.
• Comprehensive project management experience, with the ability to manage competing priorities across a diverse workload.
• The ability to prepare and review high-quality technical reports and deliver work to clients on time and to budget.
• A higher degree in ecology or a related subject, or an equivalent level of relevant professional experience.
• The ability to build and maintain effective working relationships with clients, regulators and statutory advisers.

Rewards & Benefits

SLR's ‘One Team’ culture is at the heart of our business, providing a collaborative and supportive environment where people can develop and grow. Through a structured career framework, regular performance reviews, and support towards chartership, professional qualifications and licences, we offer excellent opportunities for long-term career progression. Our flexible benefits and reward package includes:

• Competitive salary with discretionary bonus
• Company pension
• Private medical insurance
• Life, income, and travel insurance
• Salary sacrifice car lease and cycle‑to‑work schemes
• Flexible, hybrid and agile working
• 25 days’ annual leave plus flexible public holidays
• Buy or sell leave options
• Core working hours
• Cross‑border remote working and sabbatical opportunities
• Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption leave pay
• Workplace Nursery benefit
• Volunteering and Community Giving
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Specialist support for mental health, stress and menopause - supporting our people both professionally and personally

Culture & Inclusion

Inclusion is fundamental to who we are. We are committed to equal opportunities and foster a workplace where everyone can thrive, supported by active Culture & Inclusion Committees and Employee Networks. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and are a Disability Confident Committed employer. If you require any adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know and we will be happy to support you.