Assistant Ecology Officer x2

We have an exciting opportunity for two experienced full-time ecologists (1 permanent and 1
fixed term for 23 months) to join the Highland Council’s Ecology Survey Team, a small friendly
team that provide a wide range of ecological services to Council projects and services. The
Ecology Survey Team sits alongside the Ecology Planning Team and are part of a wider team of
specialist officers that advise the Council on issues affecting the Scottish highland’s
exceptional countryside, heritage and natural resources.

You will be a key ecological contact for a range of Council projects. You will undertake
ecological survey and prepare reports, provide ecological advice and guidance to Council
officers and contractors and deliver mitigation and enhancement requirements in relation to a
wide variety of developments and projects, including acting as an Ecological Clerk of Works
where required. You will get to work on large capital infrastructure developments, including
flood protection schemes, new roads, housing developments and new schools through to smaller
projects and schemes across the Council buildings and green spaces. You will play an
instrumental role in helping the Council tackle the climate and ecological emergency including
contributing to the delivery of the Highland Nature Biodiversity Action Plan and the emerging
Council Ecological Strategy.

You will have an excellent grasp of Highland ecology and demonstrable practical experience of
ecological survey (including Phase 1 habitat survey, protected species survey, NVC etc),
succinct written reporting skills (including Preliminary Ecological Assessments and EcIAs) and
a good understanding of environmental legislation and policy. You will have experience managing
ecological projects. Experience using biodiversity net gain metrics and protected species
licence/s would be an advantage.

You will have a degree in ecology or a related discipline, be a Member of CIEEM (or have the
commitment to work towards such) and have experience in a similar role. You will be comfortable
working safely in remote and challenging environments, including active construction sites and
be willing to undertake some survey work outwith standard hours.

You will be comfortable working with a wide range of people, including fellow officers and
Council managers and project teams, developers, agents, consultants and the public.

For full information including job specification and how to apply click
here for the permanent position or
here for the fixed term position.