Ecologist / Senior Ecologist / Environmental Clerk of Works

About HED Ltd

Highland Ecology and Development Ltd (HED Ltd) is a well-established, employee-owned ecological consultancy based in Dingwall, near Inverness. We have over 30 years’ experience delivering practical ecological solutions for a wide range of small- and large-scale developments.

We work across Scotland, supporting clients in the renewable energy, construction and infrastructure sectors. Our work is varied, with opportunities to undertake ecological surveys, environmental compliance, protected species work, licensing and Environmental Clerk of Works (EnvCoW) roles on some of Scotland’s most interesting projects.

We are looking to expand our team and are interested in hearing from ecologists at all career stages – from recent graduates through to experienced Senior Ecologists.

The Role

The role will be tailored to your level of experience and interests. Depending on your experience, responsibilities may include:

• Undertaking protected species surveys, habitat surveys and ecological walkovers.
• Supporting or leading Environmental Clerk of Works (EnvCoW) duties on construction projects.
• Monitoring environmental compliance on small- and large-scale construction sites.
• Delivering toolbox talks and providing practical ecological advice to site personnel.
• Preparing ecological reports, species protection plans and other technical documentation.
• Supporting protected species licensing and mitigation/compensation projects.
• Liaising with clients, contractors, landowners and other stakeholders.
• Providing practical ecological advice to support planning and development projects.
• Working as part of a small, friendly and experienced ecology team.
• For more experienced candidates, managing projects, supervising other ecologists and taking responsibility for client relationships and project delivery.

We recognise that people at different stages of their careers will bring different skills and experience. The responsibilities, level of autonomy and salary will reflect the successful candidate’s experience and capabilities.

Who We’re Looking For

We are interested in hearing from candidates across a range of experience levels.

For Graduate / Assistant Ecologist applicants, we are looking for:

• A relevant degree in Ecology, Environmental Science or a related subject.
• An enthusiasm for field-based ecological work.
• A willingness to learn and develop practical survey and consultancy skills.
• A full driving licence.
• Good communication skills and the ability to work as part of a team.
• A willingness to travel and stay away from home when required.

For more experienced Ecologists and Senior Ecologists, we would particularly value:

• Experience undertaking protected species and habitat surveys.
• Experience working within ecological consultancy.
• Environmental Clerk of Works experience.
• Experience preparing ecological reports and species protection plans.
• Protected species survey licences and/or experience working under licence.
• Experience of ecological mitigation, licensing and construction monitoring.
• The ability to work independently and provide practical advice to clients and contractors.
• Experience managing projects, staff or client relationships would be advantageous for senior-level applicants.

For all levels, you will need to be comfortable working outdoors, travelling to sites across Scotland and, where required, working unsociable hours for surveys such as bat activity and emergence surveys.

Why Join HED?

• Competitive salary based on experience and ability.
• Annual tax-free bonus of up to £3,600.
• Highlife Leisure Membership, with family membership also available.
• Opportunities for continued professional development and career progression.
• A genuine say in the development and direction of an employee-owned company.
• A varied mix of field and office-based work.
• Use of company pool vehicles.
• Overnight accommodation provided when required for work away from home.
• The opportunity to work on a wide range of renewable energy, infrastructure and construction projects across Scotland.
• A small, friendly and relaxed team with a strong focus on practical ecology and work-life balance.

Interested?

Whether you are starting your career in ecology or are an experienced ecologist looking for your next challenge, we would be interested in hearing from you.