Forestry and Land Scotland is recruiting an Assistant Ecologist, also titled Environment Ranger, on a full-time basis. The post sits within the Planning & Environment team at the Glenbranter office in the Cowal District of the Central Region. Applications close on 4 October 2026.

The Environment Team looks after designated sites, scheduled monuments, priority habitats and protected species across the national forest estate. It carries out ecological surveys, gives specialist advice, and feeds into land management plans and conservation projects.

The postholder will carry out baseline ecological surveys before forestry operations take place. Duties include surveying for protected species, drawing up mitigation plans, monitoring designated sites and habitats, supporting licence applications, and contributing to land management planning. Alongside fieldwork, the role covers reporting, data management and GIS mapping to inform operational decisions.

Applicants need an HND or equivalent in ecology, conservation or a related subject, plus experience of protected species surveying and mitigation design. They should be able to plan and run surveys independently, be fit enough for outdoor work in difficult terrain and weather, and hold a full UK driving licence or be able to do the job by other means. Desirable extras are knowledge of UK protected species legislation, GIS skills, CIEEM membership, protected species survey licences, specialist knowledge of particular taxonomic groups, and familiarity with the ecology of Schedule 1 breeding birds.

Applicants apply with a CV and should evidence how they meet the essential and desirable criteria set out in the job description and success profile document.

As always, best of luck!

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