Ecologist / Senior Ecologist

We are looking to employ an Ecologist with at least one year’s applied or consultancy ecology experience, and also welcome applications from more experienced ecologists seeking a Senior Ecologist role. This role would suit someone who enjoys a balanced mix of fieldwork and report writing, and who is motivated by working in a small team where work is varied, responsibilities evolve, and individual contributions are valued.

About us

Atlantic58 is a small and rapidly growing ecological and environmental consultancy based in the Isle of Lewis in the Western Isles of Scotland. We provide professional environmental and ecological consultancy and research services, with a strong focus on projects rooted in the unique social, cultural and ecological context of the Western Isles.

Our office is set within the picturesque Lews Castle Grounds in Stornoway, and is located within part of the UHI North, West, and Hebrides campus, providing close links with the University and offering opportunities for collaborative research and applied ecological projects. The office space is dog-friendly and includes a private enclosed outdoor area.

Working in the Western Isles offers the opportunity to work in one of the UK’s most wildlife-rich landscapes. Our Ecology Team (currently a team of 5 ecologists) often work with nationally and internationally designated sites, rare and protected species, and sensitive habitats, carrying out work that demands care, integrity, and a strong sense of environmental responsibility.

The Role

The role is based in the Isle of Lewis and involves delivering a wide range of ecological consultancy services across the Western Isles, with occasional work elsewhere in Scotland. Depending on experience, you will take responsibility for small to medium-sized projects and may lead aspects of larger, more complex projects, providing technical and mentoring support where appropriate.

There is scope for the role to develop over time, with increasing responsibility, project leadership and technical oversight, aligned to your strengths, interests and the evolving needs of the business. Combined with a varied consultancy workload and a supportive team environment, the role offers strong professional development alongside a distinctive island-based lifestyle.

Key Responsibilities

• Planning and undertaking ecological field surveys with particular emphasis on ornithological survey work (other specialisms considered)
• Act as Ecological Clerk of Works (ECoW) where required, appropriate to experience
• Preparation of technical reports including Preliminary Ecological Appraisals, protected species survey reports, and ecological assessments for EIAs
• Make licence applications and produce Species Protection Plans
• Assist with data handling, analysis and mapping (GIS)

Essential

• A relevant degree in Ecology, Environmental Science or a related discipline
• At least one year’s experience in consultancy or applied ecology
• A desire to progress and build upon leadership skills or to apply existing leadership experience within a small team
• Strong bird identification skills, with proven survey experience
• Experience writing or contributing to ecological reports, with good attention to detail
• A working understanding of UK and Scottish wildlife legislation, guidance and survey methods
• GIS skills (QGIS and/or ArcGIS)
• Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel for fieldwork
• Applicants must have the right to work in the UK

Desirable

• Experience as an Ecological Clerk of Works (ECoW)
• Knowledge / experience of BNG and biodiversity enhancement
• Other ecological survey experience
• Protected species licences including bat, Schedule 1 birds, otter, freshwater pearl mussel, etc
• Experience working in remote environments and willingness for workload to be field-intensive during spring / summer months (support will be provided)
• CSCS card
• Professional membership (CIEEM)

What we offer

A sustainable work-life balance is very important to us and we seek to provide a supportive, friendly and rewarding place to work. In addition, we offer:

• Permanent contract (6 months’ probation period)
• Salary range £27,000 – £37,000 pa dependent on experience with increase following probationary period
• Full time (35 hours per week) although part-time hours and flexible working considered
• Hybrid working available when field commitments allow
• Time off in lieu (TOIL)
• Company pension
• 25 days holiday plus 8 statutory/bank holidays
• Use of company vehicles for work-related travel
• Monthly personal development days (full-time) or half day (part-time)
• One paid professional membership a year
• Regular/extensive training and development opportunities
• Relocation or moving allowance (where applicable)