Job Description

What if you could do the kind of work the world truly needs?
At WSP, you’ll join a global consultancy where your curiosity is encouraged, your ideas are welcomed, and your work contributes to a more sustainable future. With access to world‑class expertise, diverse perspectives, and exciting career pathways, here you can shape a career as unique as you are.

We are currently looking for an Assistant Ecologist to join our growing Nature Services team. You’ll work alongside a supportive network of technical specialists on a rich variety of projects across Scotland and Ireland. We need an enthusiastic and adaptable individual to enable project delivery with a willingness to learn and grow with our team and support the growth of others.

Why This Role Matters

Our portfolio of ecology projects in Scotland and beyond is extensive and rapidly evolving, and WSP is helping to lead this change working with clients, government, planners and consultees to shape better outcomes for nature, society, and the environment

Joining our team means you’ll be at the forefront of delivery while receiving full support to grow your expertise, build your confidence, and develop into a highly skilled ecological practitioner.

We welcome applications from individuals who may not tick every box just yet but are eager to learn, develop and make a difference.

What You’ll Be Doing

As an Assistant Ecologist, you will:

• Assist with and undertake ecology surveys including Phase 1 habitat/UKHab surveys and protected species surveys (badger, otter, bats, amphibians and reptiles, etc). 

• Assist with preparing a range of tenders and ecological deliverables including protected species reports, licence applications, Preliminary Ecological Appraisals, maps and Risk Assessment Method Statements (RAMS). 

• Undertake data analysis to inform baseline surveys, such as bat call identification.

• Participate in weekly and monthly Nature Services team meetings and national initiatives.

• Deepen your technical expertise and pursue professional development supported by colleagues and through formal training.

• Harness your potential to develop specific skillsets and share technical knowledge and opportunities for learning and innovations with colleagues.

What We’re Looking For

• A relevant academic qualification in ecology or a related subject.

• Qualifying membership of CIEEM or eligible to apply.

• Some proven relevant experience of undertaking ecology desk-based and field surveys within the UK such as botanical survey and habitat classification and/or protected species surveys across a broad range of habitats and seasons, and use of H&S practices including site risk assessments.

• Strong communication and organisation skills with some proven relevant experience gained within a professional consultancy, regulatory and/or industrial role(s) would be an advantage, but other types of experience will be considered including voluntary work and/or specialist interest groups.

• Some technical knowledge of relevant ecology policy and guidance (particularly within Scotland), or a desire for moving towards species survey licenceswould be an advantage.

• A desire to develop your core ecological and consultancy skills, be supported by a team of ecologists and other environmental professionals.

Who You’ll Work With

You will collaborate closely with colleagues across Edinburgh, Glasgow and Belfast and contribute to a wide range of projects, including:

• Nationally significant infrastructure projects

• Renewable energy developments

• Utility refurbishment programmes

• Smaller flood defence, active travel and green spaces projects

• You’ll also work alongside experts in Biodiversity Net Gain, natural capital, ornithology, freshwater and marine ecology, arboriculture, landscape architecture, hydrology, engineering and geotechnical specialisms.

Why WSP?

A flexible working culture that empowers you to do your best work.
A diverse, inclusive and supportive team environment.
Global opportunities and the chance to influence meaningful environmental outcomes.
More than 69,000 colleagues worldwide working toward a better future for communities and the natural world.

Imagine a better future for you and a better future for us all.

Work on landmark projects around the world and embrace opportunities to make an even bigger impact in the communities you care about. What if you could do the

best work of your life and create a legacy for yourself?

With us, you can. Apply today.

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