Site Ecology Lead / Ecological Clerk of Works (ECoW)

Ocean to Earth Recruitment is working with an established and growing environmental consultancy to recruit a Site Ecology Lead / Ecological Clerk of Works (ECoW) based in Inverness.

This is an excellent opportunity for an ecologist who enjoys combining practical fieldwork with ecological consultancy, construction site support and environmental compliance.

Our client delivers ecological and environmental services across a diverse portfolio of development and land-use projects. You will work closely with contractors, clients and project teams to ensure ecological considerations are incorporated throughout construction activities, supporting compliance with environmental legislation and positive outcomes for biodiversity.

Whether you are an experienced Ecological Clerk of Works or an ecological consultant looking to develop your site-based expertise, this role offers the opportunity to broaden your experience within a supportive and collaborative consultancy.

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver Ecological Clerk of Works (ECoW) services, providing practical ecological advice and environmental compliance support on construction sites.

• Monitor construction activities to ensure compliance with planning conditions, environmental legislation and ecological mitigation requirements.

• Undertake and coordinate ecological surveys, including protected species and habitat assessments.

• Prepare ecological reports, technical assessments and supporting documentation.

• Work closely with clients, contractors and project teams to identify ecological risks and recommend practical solutions.

• Collect, analyse and map ecological data using GIS/QGIS.

• Prepare risk assessments and support safe working practices.

• Manage smaller projects, including scheduling, client liaison and reporting.

• Support the wider ecology team with technical delivery and project coordination.

About You

We are looking for a motivated and organised ecologist with a good understanding of UK ecology and an interest in construction-related environmental management.

Ideally, you will have:

• A degree in Ecology, Environmental Science or a related discipline.

• Experience undertaking ecological field surveys for British wildlife and habitats.

• Knowledge of UK environmental legislation, protected species requirements and ecological best practice.

• Previous experience within an ecological or environmental consultancy.

• Strong communication, organisational and report-writing skills.

• Confidence working independently and collaboratively, including on active construction sites.

• A full UK driving licence.

• Flexibility to undertake occasional unsociable hours or work away from home when required.

Desirable experience:

• Previous experience as an Ecological or Environmental Clerk of Works.

• Experience supporting environmental compliance on construction projects.

• Knowledge of GIS/QGIS.

• Experience working directly with contractors and providing site-based ecological advice.

• A relevant postgraduate qualification.

• A current CSCS card, although support can be provided to obtain one.

Candidates with strong ecological field experience who are keen to develop their ECoW expertise are encouraged to apply, even if they do not meet every requirement.

What's on Offer?

• Competitive salary of £32,000 to £44,000, depending on experience.

• 25 days' annual leave plus bank holidays.

• Company pension scheme.

• Hybrid working arrangements.

• Professional development, mentoring and career progression opportunities.

• Exposure to a diverse range of ecological and environmental projects.

• Supportive and collaborative working environment.

• Employee discounts, social events and volunteering opportunities.

• Opportunities to contribute to meaningful environmental projects and positive biodiversity outcomes.

Why Consider This Opportunity?

This position offers a balance of practical ecological work, technical consultancy and construction site involvement.

You will have the opportunity to develop your skills across a variety of projects, build relationships with experienced environmental professionals and contribute to the delivery of responsible development.

For ecologists looking to progress into site ecology leadership or develop specialist ECoW experience, this could be an excellent next step.

Apply Today

If you are an ecologist based in Inverness or the surrounding Highlands, or are considering relocating to the area, we would love to hear from you.

For a confidential discussion or to apply, please send your CV to:

Vicky Kenrick
Co-Founder and Director
Ocean to Earth Recruitment
vicky@oceantoearth.co.uk
07341 020135
www.oceantoearth.co.uk

Ocean to Earth Recruitment specialises in connecting environmental professionals with consultancies and organisations committed to positive environmental outcomes and long-term career development.