Cairn Ecology

What is Cairn Ecology?

Cairn Ecology is an ecological consultancy founded in 2018 by Lorraine Hamilton, based in East Kilbride, Scotland. The company is passionate about conservation and sustainability, providing a comprehensive range of ecological services including ecological surveys, habitat assessments, environmental impact assessments, and biodiversity management plans.

Cairn Ecology works nationally and internationally, with projects spanning Scotland, England, Eastern Europe, and the Southern Caucasus. The company is a CIEEM Registered Practice, a Living Wage and Living Hours employer, and has achieved Gold accreditation from the 4 Day Week Foundation — recognising its successful adoption of a 32-hour, 4-day working week at full pay.

Where will I work?

Cairn Ecology is headquartered at 41 Markethill Road, East Kilbride, G74 4AB in Scotland. The company operates a hybrid working model, combining office-based work with fieldwork and remote working. Given the nature of ecological consultancy, team members regularly travel to project sites across Scotland, England, and occasionally overseas for survey and assessment work.

What is the team like?

With approximately 7 employees, Cairn Ecology is a small, specialist team of ecologists and environmental professionals. The company has a close-knit, collaborative culture where every team member plays a meaningful role in project delivery. Founded and led by Lorraine Hamilton, the team shares a genuine passion for ecology, conservation, and making a positive environmental impact.

Despite its small size, the company operates to high professional standards as a CIEEM Registered Practice and takes on projects of national and international significance.

Work-Life Balance

Cairn Ecology operates a genuine 4-day working week at 32 hours per week with full pay. The company has achieved 4 Day Week Foundation Gold accreditation, the highest level of recognition for organisations that have successfully implemented a reduced-hours working model without any reduction in pay.

As a Living Hours employer, Cairn Ecology also guarantees secure and predictable working hours, providing financial stability alongside the benefits of a shorter working week. This commitment to employee wellbeing is remarkable for a small consultancy operating in a sector that often demands long hours during peak survey seasons.

Perks and Benefits

• 4-day working week at full pay (32 hours)
• 4 Day Week Foundation Gold accredited
• Living Wage and Living Hours employer
• CIEEM Registered Practice
• Hybrid working model
• Professional development opportunities
• Mental health and wellbeing support
• Work on nationally and internationally significant ecological projects