Direct Ecology Limited – Senior/Principal Ecologist

Overview

Direct Ecology Ltd was established in 2008 and is a leading small Scottish ecological consultancy based in Dunblane with a team of c. 25 ecologists and associated seasonal and office staff.  We have a wide client base and have developed an excellent reputation for delivering objective, high quality work to clients in the public, private and voluntary sectors.  Our main areas of work are in habitat, bird and protected species survey (including bats), undertaking and overseeing licensed works, providing Ecological Clerk of Works (ECoW) services, BREEAM assessments, peat depth and condition assessment and biodiversity enhancement plans.  We work on a wide range of projects including large scale road, powerline and mineral projects, energy parks, leisure developments, forestry planting schemes, smaller scale building and steading developments as well as numerous preliminary ecological appraisals.  We have built up a strong client base, are on various Frameworks and have a strong pipeline of work for 2026 and beyond.

The role

We are looking for an experienced senior or principal ecologist to join our current team. We are looking for someone with excellent report writing and project management and people management skills, proven experience in writing PEAs, EcIAs along with some experience of preparing tender responses and preparing RAMS.  A specialism in either ornithology or botany with good field survey skills would be beneficial.  This position could be largely remote working or office based, from our office in Dunblane.

Essential

• Relevant degree and eligible for membership of CIEEM
• Excellent knowledge of wildlife in Scotland and comprehensive understanding of Scottish nature conservation legislation
• Experience of project management
• Wide-ranging experience in habitat and protected species survey, including survey design and data management
• Proven experience in the preparation and review of ecological consultancy reports, including preliminary ecological appraisals, protected species survey reports and Ecological Impact Assessment reports.
• Experience of line management
• Excellent communication skills

What is offered

• Starting Salary commensurate with experience (£35,000-£45,000) for F-T work (based on a 40 hour week, includes a 30 min paid lunch break).
• Auto-enrolment pension scheme and company contribution of 8%, increasing to 10% after 3 years employment
• Company life assurance policy
• Flexible working hours including some home working and a flexible toil system.
• Provision of a company laptop.
• Access as required to company 4 x 4s/ cars for work use
• Annual kit allowance (plus provision of any required PPE)
• Commitment to Continued Professional Development including paid membership of CIEEM and paid training opportunities.
• Starting annual leave at 31 days (including bank holidays) increasing with service to 33 days per annum.

We are an equal opportunities employer. We aim to treat everyone fairly, equally and with respect, irrespective of sex, marital status, age, race, ethnic origin, sexual orientation, disability, religion or belief or gender identity. We require our staff, sub-contractors and suppliers to comply with these standards.

Direct Ecology is a Living Wage Employer.