Ecological Clerk of Works

Ecological Clerk of Works (ECoW) – Edinburgh

Salary: £35,000–£40,000. Relaxed office days policy.

This is a site‑based ecological and environmental compliance role working directly with contractors and project teams to ensure construction activities are carried out responsibly and in line with ecological and environmental requirements.

Experience is gained from several pathways:

• Assistant or Consultant Ecologist roles
• Senior Ecologists seeking more site‑based responsibility
• Env Co Ws  or Environmental Advisors with ecological experience
• Ecologists with protected species experience who enjoy practical delivery
• Environmental Officers from renewables, utilities or civil engineering

Candidates should feel confident on construction sites, understand ecological constraints, and be willing to act as the go‑to person for practical ecological advice.

• Act as on‑site ecological advisor
• Ensure compliance with ecological mitigation, planning conditions and licence requirements
• Deliver toolbox talks and advise contractors on ecological constraints
• Monitor works to protect habitats and species
• Attend site meetings and produce clear, concise reports
• Support clients throughout the construction phase
• Liaise with regulators, NGOs and stakeholders
• Contribute ecological input to site documentation (e.g., CEMPs)
• Support and mentor junior team members where needed

• 3+ years of experience in ecology or an ECoW/EnvCoW‑type role
• Good understanding of UK ecological legislation and guidance
• Experience working on construction sites or with contractors
• Strong communication and problem‑solving skills
• Ability to work independently on site
• Full driving licence
• Protected species experience or licences beneficial but not essential