Principal Ornithologist

Are you an experienced ornithologist looking to take the next step in your career? Our client, a leading environmental and ecological consultancy, is seeking a Principal Ornithologist to join their team in the North West. This is a fantastic opportunity to lead and grow ornithological services within a dynamic and collaborative organisation that prides itself on technical excellence and delivering high-quality results.

As Principal Ornithologist, you will:

• Design, lead, and oversee ornithological surveys, including breeding, wintering, migratory, and protected bird species across diverse habitats.
• Produce high-quality technical reports, impact assessments, mitigation strategies, and licence applications.
• Provide expert advice to clients, regulatory bodies, and stakeholders on ornithological matters, including biodiversity net gain.
• Liaise with statutory and non-statutory bodies to secure necessary permissions and licences.
• Ensure all deliverables meet internal standards, legal requirements, and best practices.
• Mentor and develop junior ornithologists and ecology staff, providing training and guidance.
• Contribute to business development through proposal writing, project estimation, and client relationship management.
• Stay updated on ornithological research, legislation, and best practices, integrating this knowledge into the company’s methods.
• Support cross-disciplinary ecological assessments, linking ornithology with other specialisms such as habitat, hydrology, and terrestrial ecology.

• Degree (or equivalent) in Ornithology, Ecology, Wildlife Biology, or a related discipline.
• Significant post-qualification experience in ornithology, including surveying, impact assessment, and mitigation, ideally in the North West of England.
• Proven track record of delivering ornithological assessments for infrastructure, development, or utilities projects.
• Experience preparing licence/permit applications for protected bird species.
• Strong field skills for a range of bird species and habitats, with the ability to work in various field conditions.
• Excellent technical writing skills for producing clear and rigorous reports.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage with clients, stakeholders, and regulators.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects and lead teams effectively.

• Chartered membership of relevant professional bodies (e.g., CIEEM) or equivalent recognition.
• Experience with biodiversity net gain metrics (e.g., DEFRA Metric) as applied to ornithology.
• GIS skills for spatial analysis of bird data and habitat mapping.
• Experience working on large infrastructure projects such as energy or transport.
• Knowledge of local ornithological issues and conservation priorities in the North West.

• Conduct and oversee ornithological surveys in the field.
• Prepare detailed technical reports and assessments for clients and stakeholders.
• Provide expert advice on ornithological matters, including mitigation and biodiversity net gain strategies.
• Mentor and support junior team members, fostering their professional growth.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to deliver integrated ecological solutions.
• Engage with clients and stakeholders to ensure project requirements are met.
• Stay informed on the latest developments in ornithology and ecological best practices.

• Competitive salary, commensurate with experience.
• Opportunities to lead high-profile and varied ornithological and ecological projects.
• Support for professional development, training, and career progression.
• A collaborative and supportive working environment.
• Flexible working arrangements and a balanced approach to fieldwork and travel.
• Access to a broad range of expertise across ecology, aquatic habitats, and arboriculture.