At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead ecology surveys and prepare impactful ecological reports for diverse projects.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking team dedicated to shaping better outcomes for nature and society.
- Benefits: Supportive environment, professional development, and opportunities to work on landmark projects.
- Other info: Collaborate with experts across various environmental disciplines and enjoy excellent career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in ecology while growing your skills and confidence.
- Qualifications: Relevant ecology qualification and experience in field surveys and report writing.
The predicted salary is between 40500 - 49500 £ per year.
Description
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.
We need an enthusiastic and adaptable individual to enable project delivery with a willingness to learn and grow with our team and support the growth of others.
Why This Role Matters
Our portfolio of ecology projects in Scotland and beyond is extensive and rapidly evolving, and WSP is helping to lead this change 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 grow your expertise, build your confidence, and develop into a highly skilled ecological practitioner.
We welcome applications from individuals who may not tick every box just yet but are eager to learn, develop and make a difference.
What You’ll Be Doing
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 and reptiles, etc).
- Prepare a range of ecological deliverables including Protected Species Reports and Preliminary Ecological Appraisals.
- Prepare tenders and a range of ecological deliverables including Preliminary Ecological Appraisals, Ecological Impact Assessments, Habitats Regulations Appraisals, technical reports and mitigation licence applications.
- Undertake client liaison and project management.
- Conduct consultation and negotiation with regulators and stakeholders.
- Mentor junior team members whilst helping to nurture an enthusiastic, supportive, and productive working environment.
- Participate in weekly and monthly Nature Services team meetings and national initiatives.
- Deepen your technical expertise and pursue professional development supported by colleagues and through formal training.
- Harness your potential to develop specific skillsets and share technical knowledge and opportunities for learning and innovations with colleagues.
- What We’re Looking For
- A relevant academic qualification in ecology or a related subject.
- Full membership of CIEEM or eligible to apply.
- Technical knowledge and competency in planning and undertaking ecology desk-based and field surveys within the UK such as botanical survey and habitat classification and/or protected species surveys across a broad range of habitats and seasons, and use of H&S practices including site risk assessments.
- Ability to produce high quality, technically and scientifically robust ecological reports and other project deliverables including Preliminary Ecological Appraisals, Ecological Impact Assessments, Protected Species Reports, and Habitats Regulations Appraisals.
- Proven relevant experience gained within a professional consultancy, regulatory and/or industrial role(s) with strong communication and organisation skills.
- Technical knowledge and competency of relevant ecology policy and guidance (particularly within Scotland) and use of GIS (Arc GIS or QGIS) would be an advantage.
- A technical specialism or species survey licence would be an advantage.
- Proven relevant experience in undertaking, or a desire for moving towards, quality assurance of technical deliverables would be an advantage
- A desire to develop your core ecological and consultancy skills, be supported by a team of ecologists and other environmental professionals.
- Who You’ll Work With
You will collaborate closely with colleagues across Edinburgh, Glasgow and Belfast and contribute to a wide range of projects, including:
- Nationally significant infrastructure projects
- Renewable energy developments
- Utility refurbishment programmes
- Smaller flood defence, active travel and green spaces projects
You’ll 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.
#LI-MB1
Senior Ecologist in Edinburgh employer: WSP
WSP is an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture, providing employees with the opportunity to lead impactful projects in urban drainage and wastewater modelling. With a strong focus on professional development, our team members benefit from extensive training and growth opportunities, all while working in a hybrid environment that promotes work-life balance. Located across the UK, we offer a dynamic workplace where your contributions directly influence local and national infrastructure solutions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Ecologist 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 WSP.
✨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.
✨Utilise Environmental Job Boards
Take advantage of niche job boards dedicated to environmental careers. Sites like Green Jobs, Environmental Career and EcoJobs often feature openings from companies like WSP and can help us land that full-time gig.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Ecologist 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 WSP.
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. WSP 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 Ecologist at WSP. 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 WSP
✨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 WSP, 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 WSP 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.
