Trainee Ecologist

Trainee Ecologist

Full Time \| Permanent \| Renfrew, Scotland \| £28,000

At Wild Surveys Ltd, we’re passionate about delivering high\-quality ecological consultancy services across Scotland. Based in Renfrew, we work with a diverse range of clients — from government bodies and national construction companies to private homeowners and small\-scale developments — providing trusted ecological surveys, assessments, and practical advice.

As our team continues to grow, we’re looking for enthusiastic and motivated Trainee Ecologists to join us on a permanent basis. This is an exciting opportunity for someone looking to build a long\-term career in ecology within a supportive and experienced team environment.

Whether you're recently qualified or looking to take the next step into consultancy, we’re keen to hear from people who are passionate about wildlife, eager to learn, and ready to develop their field and technical skills.

Why Join Wild Surveys?

We believe a healthy work\-life balance is important, especially in a demanding and seasonal industry like ecology. That’s why we operate a 4\.5\-day working week, with the office closing at 1pm every Friday, giving you a longer weekend every week.

Additional benefits include:

• Enhanced pay rates for unsociable survey hours


• Private healthcare scheme


• Pension scheme


• Ongoing training and career development opportunities


• Free flu jabs


• On\-site parking


• A supportive and collaborative working environment

The Role

As a Trainee Ecologist, you’ll work closely with senior members of the team to gain hands\-on experience across a variety of projects throughout Scotland. The role combines both fieldwork and office\-based responsibilities, including protected species surveys, habitat surveys, report writing, mapping, and client liaison.

This is a varied role that offers excellent opportunities for professional development and progression within the company.

Main Responsibilities

• Carry out desk studies and ecological research


• Produce and update maps using QGIS


• Assist with habitat and protected species surveys under the supervision of senior staff


• Undertake great crested newt surveys during evenings between March and June


• Undertake bat activity surveys during evenings between April and October


• Prepare protected species licence applications


• Produce and amend reports to agreed deadlines


• Support project delivery to a high professional and ethical standard


• Liaise with clients and stakeholders throughout project stages


• Attend sites and meetings across Scotland, including occasional overnight stays


• Maintain up\-to\-date knowledge of legislation, policy, and best practice guidance


• Promote safe working practices and comply with all company policies and procedures


• Represent Wild Surveys professionally at all times

What We’re Looking For

Essential requirements include:

• A relevant qualification in ecology or a related subject (e.g. HND Wildlife \& Conservation Management, BSc/MSc Ecology, or similar)


• Strong communication and interpersonal skills


• Enthusiasm for ecology, legislation, and survey methodologies


• Ability to build positive working relationships with colleagues and clients


• A full clean UK driving licence with at least two years’ driving experience


• Access to your own vehicle


• A willingness to work occasional unsociable hours during survey season


• A reasonable commuting distance to our Renfrew office

A willingness to apply for CIEEM membership will also be expected if you are not already a member.

Working Hours

This role is based on a 36\-hour working week, across our 4\.5\-day schedule.

The position includes a mix of office\-based work and field surveys. During peak survey season (typically March to September), additional hours may occasionally be required to accommodate seasonal survey work.

Location

This is an in\-person role based from our Renfrew office, with travel to sites across Scotland.

How to Apply

Please send your CV and a cover letter to:

admin@wildsurveys.co.uk

Please include:

• Your current location


• Your availability/start date

We look forward to hearing from you.

Job Type: Full\-time

Pay: From £28,000\.00 per year

Benefits:

• Company pension


• Free flu jabs


• On\-site parking


• Private medical insurance


• Work from home

Ability to commute/relocate:

• Renfrew PA4: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)

Licence/Certification:

• and relevant qualification for this role? (MSc or higher) (required)


• Driving Licence (1 year \+) (required)

Work Location: In person

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