Principal Aquatic Ecologist

Job Title: Principal Aquatic Ecologist

Location: Scotland - Glasgow or Perth (Hybrid Working Available)
Salary: £44,000 - £50,000 DOE
Sector: Environmental Consultancy Ecology Water Services

The Opportunity
A forward-thinking, sustainability-focused environmental consultancy is seeking an experienced Principal Aquatic Ecologist to join its growing team in Scotland. This role offers a unique opportunity to play a key leadership role within a well-established freshwater ecology team, shaping technical direction and contributing directly to the success and culture of the business.

With a strong reputation for practical, impactful solutions in environmental consultancy, the organisation is driven by a mission to deliver work that goes beyond compliance-making a genuine difference to both nature and the communities it serves.

The Role
As Principal Aquatic Ecologist, you'll take the lead in developing the Scottish aquatics practice-steering technical delivery, team development, and client engagement. This is an ideal role for a consultant looking to take the next step in their leadership journey, with the autonomy to shape your team and influence strategy.

Key responsibilities include:

• Technical leadership of the freshwater aquatics team, ensuring quality and compliance with UK regulations


• Oversight of project delivery, from conception to completion, across a diverse range of aquatic ecology work


• Identification of new business opportunities and market trends


• Management of client and stakeholder relationships


• Mentoring and developing team members to achieve professional and personal growth


• Leading on tenders, budgeting, and resource planning

About You
To thrive in this role, you'll need a mix of technical expertise and people leadership. You're someone who enjoys sharing knowledge, guiding others, and building positive relationships-both internally and externally.

Essential Experience & Qualifications:

• 5-10 years' experience in freshwater aquatic ecology


• Degree or equivalent in Environmental Science, Ecology, or related discipline


• Professional membership (e.g., CIEEM, CIWEM, IEMA); Chartered status desirable


• In-depth understanding of EIA, water quality monitoring, and freshwater survey methods


• Experience preparing and reviewing HRA assessments


• Demonstrated project management and business development skills


• Strong working knowledge of relevant UK legislation and best practices


• Full UK driving licence

Desirable:

• SFCC Electrofishing qualification or NatureScot protected species licences


• Experience managing subconsultants and multidisciplinary teams

What's on Offer
This is more than just a job - it's a chance to become a key figure in a purpose-led, people-first business. You'll be supported by a collaborative leadership team that values your input and invests in your growth.

Benefits include:

• 25 days annual leave + Scottish bank holidays (increases with tenure)


• 20 days CPD annually


• Paid professional membership fees


• Flexible hours and hybrid working


• Private healthcare


• Company pension scheme


• Paid lunch and TOIL scheme


• UK relocation assistance available for the right candidate