Ecologist

Our client Scottish Power Renewables are seeking an experienced Ecologist for an initial 12 month contract role based in Glasgow but offering hybrid working,

Job Purpose Statement

The jobholder will work as part of an established team of ecologists in Scottish Power Renewables (SPR) to deliver a range of projects including the development, management and delivery of Habitat Management Plans (HMPs) covering over 10,000ha in respect of a growing portfolio of onshore renewable energy generation projects as well as innovative research projects to support policy advancement.This includes the delivery of ambitious peatland restoration projects in Scotland.  

The jobholder will contribute to research into the interaction of ecology and renewable energy installations, development of new techniques and methods, collaborations with external organisations/trade associations, stakeholder management provision of advice to development and construction teams on new development and construction projects.

Accountability Statements

To provide expert technical support and guidance on a wide range of ecological matters regarding the development of onshore renewable energy generation projects being proposed or going into the planning process to support the future growth and strategy of the business
To implement compliance with the requirements of HMPs and other ecological obligations during the construction and operation of onshore renewable energy projects, including the implementation of peatland restoration projects.  

To work closely with the Senior Ecology Manager to ensure compliance with planning conditions, practical implementation of HMPs and management of budgets.
Whilst the role does not have direct line management responsibility, you will at times be expected to guide and support more junior members of the team and the role will require direction and supervision of contractors across multiple sites.
To identify and scope potential areas of research, undertake analysis of monitoring data and determine future management requirements as the HMPs evolve over time to support the strategy of SPR

Dimensions

Support development, delivery and compliance of Habitat Management Plans over a growing portfolio of onshore renewable energy projects
With significant investment in renewable generation, it is critical to ensure optimal ecological policy aspects to support future project consents and profitability.
Particular areas of work include:
Procurement of contracts with consultants and contractors <£500k in value.
Management of c. 30 contracts pa and budget for £400k
Providing project specific support and advice to SPR including project managers in Land and Estates, Onshore Project Development and Construction to ensure work completed by third parties is of the required standard to support projects to planning consent.

Skills, Knowledge & Experience

Educated to degree level in ecology, environmental management or related science subject
A thorough understanding of terrestrial ecology and a proven track record in the ecological sector including project development and completion of ecological impact assessments
A strong understanding of legislation and policy in respect of ecology, nature conservation and environmental matters in the UK
Ability to effectively communicate relevant technical detail to a diverse range of internal and external stakeholders

Competent use of specialist GIS software (e.g. ArcGIS)
Demonstrable understanding and experience of one or more of the following subjects:
Peatland habitat ecology, hydrology and geomorphology
Native woodland restoration and management
Forestry management
Avian issues of windfarms
Bat activity, behaviour and population dynamics
Grassland creation and management
Competent use of Microsoft Office software
Prepared to work in remote upland locations on rough and/or wet terrain throughout the UK including overnight stays several days per week at certain times of the year.
Full UK driving licence

Desirable

Professional membership of a relevant organisation (e.g. CIEEM)
Knowledge of upland land management practices
Additional expertise in any of the following subjects:
Population modelling
Riparian mammals
Surface water hydrology
Hydrogeology
Upland farming practices and grazing management
Heathland management
Deer management
Commercial forestry
Understanding of complex statistics (e.g. Bayesian techniques) and competence in using statistical software (e.g. GenStat/R)
Experience of working in the renewable energy sector
First aid training
Offroad driver training
Mountain leadership training/qualifications

Minimum Criteria

Degree in ecology, environmental management or related subject
A strong understanding of legislation and policy developments in respect of ecology, nature conservation and environmental matters in UK and specifically, Scotland
Prepared to work in remote upland locations on rough and/or wet terrain across the UK
Full UK driving licence