Job Description

Trainee Ecologist

Wild Surveys is an ecological consultancy based in Renfrew, providing services and support across Scotland to a diverse portfolio of clients ranging from government bodies and nationwide construction companies, to small scale projects for private homeowners. We specialise in providing comprehensive terrestrial ecological surveys, assessments, and consultancy services to a range of clients.

As our team continues to grow, we are looking for enthusiastic, skilled individuals who share our commitment to ecological integrity, professionalism, and continuous learning. If you're ready to make a meaningful impact in the field of ecology, we'd love to hear from you.

We are currently welcoming applications for trainee ecologists to join our team on a full time and permanent basis. Flexible working arrangements will also be considered for applicants who wish to be employed on a part time basis.

Reporting Structure:

The Trainee Ecologists report to senior members of staff and the leadership team.

Job summary:

This position entails carrying out protected species surveys and habitat surveys, as well as report writing, and client liaison, all under the mentorship of senior staff. The role may require attendance at sites and meetings across Scotland, and some periods away from home will be required as a part of the role. You will be expected to represent the company always in a professional manner, and will be asked to apply for a CIEEM membership if you do not have one already.

Main Duties and Activities:

Carry out desk studies and discuss your findings with your colleagues Produce maps using QGIS and update these as requested by your colleagues Carry out research, including desk studies, when required for specific projects Assist Ecologists with field survey work, including habitat and protected species surveys Carry out great crested newt surveys during unsociable hours, between March and June Carry out bat activity surveys during unsociable hours, between April and October Prepare licence applications for protected species Produce reports as required and to pre-agreed timescales Update and amend reports as needed in accordance with senior staffs' feedback Assist in managing projects to a high standard in a professional and ethical manner Liaise with clients at all stages of their projects Undertake the training that is provided by WSL and is relevant to your employment, with a view to developing your ecology skills and progressing into a career as an ecologist Behave in a professional manner towards your colleagues and WSL's clients always Maintain and develop good working relationships with existing and new clients, as well as local planning authorities and government bodies Ensure that you follow company policies and procedures, engage with all company H&S initiatives and communications, and actively take responsibility for your own personal safety and welfare Maintain up to date knowledge of industry changes, best practice guidelines, legislation, and policy Promote the business at all opportunities

Job Requirements:

Hold relevant qualifications for this role Be able to form sound working relationships with your colleagues Have an interest in ecology legislation, survey techniques and an enthusiasm for keeping up to date with best practice guidelines; Have good communication skills to allow effective liaison with planners, developers, professional advisors, contractors, landowners, the public and others Hold a full clean driver's licence valid in the UK with at least two years driving experience, and have access to your own car
The role will include aspects of both field and desk work, and therefore living within a reasonable commuting distance of our head office in Renfrew is essential . A portion of our work every year also involves carrying out bat emergence surveys and great crested newt surveys and therefore a reasonable level of fitness and a willingness to work outside sociable hours is required; as is being a confident driver and holding a full valid driving licence.

Working Hours:

The Trainee Ecologist is expected to work 40 hours per week. During the GCN and bat survey season (typically March to September), you may be asked to work additional hours some weeks. The working week will consist of a mix of office-based time and fieldwork, with increased fieldwork during peak seasons.

Salary:

26.5k

Work Location:

In person

Benefits of working with Wild Surveys Ltd:

Competitive salary Increased rate of pay when working unsociable hours Increasing holiday entitlement for every year of service Private healthcare scheme available Pension scheme available Opportunities to develop your career Free flu jabs On-site parking

How to apply:

Please forward your CV and cover letter by email to admin@wildsurveys.co.uk.

Please clearly state in your application when you are available to start, and where you are based.

We look forward to receiving your application and will be in touch with you after having reviewed your application.

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Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From 26,500.00 per year

Benefits:

Company pension Free flu jabs On-site parking Private medical insurance Work from home
Schedule:

Day shift Flexitime Monday to Friday Night shift No weekends
Ability to commute/relocate:

Renfrew PA4: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)
Licence/Certification:

Driving Licence (required)
Work Location: In person

Application deadline: 21/07/2025
Reference ID: Senior Ecologist