Principal Ornithologist

Overview

On behalf of our client, we’re recruiting for a Principal Ornithologist to take a senior leadership role within their ecology team. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced professional to influence technical direction, support business growth, and lead complex ornithology work at a strategic level.

You’ll be joining a consultancy that prioritises quality over volume, invests in its people, and empowers senior staff to shape the way the business operates.

Responsibilities

As the Principal Ornithologist, you will:

• Act as the lead ornithology specialist across complex and high-profile projects.
• Provide strategic advice to clients, planners, and stakeholders.
• Oversee survey methodologies, data interpretation, and ensure reporting quality.
• Review and sign off on technical deliverables.
• Lead on bids, proposals, and fee negotiations.
• Support and mentor senior and junior team members.
• Help shape company systems, standards, and operational efficiencies.
• Contribute to multidisciplinary collaboration across the business.

Qualifications

To be successful in this role, you will need:

Essential:

• A degree or master’s in ecology or a related discipline.
• Chartered or working towards Chartered Ecologist status.
• Extensive experience delivering ornithology surveys for major developments.
• In-depth understanding of UK bird legislation, planning policy, and Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA).
• Strong leadership and mentoring capabilities.
• Proven experience managing budgets, fees, and client relationships.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• A full UK driving licence.

Desirable:

• Experience operating at EIA project leadership level.
• Strong commercial awareness and a proven track record in work-winning.
• Relevant health and safety certifications for fieldwork.

Day-to-Day

Your day-to-day responsibilities will include:

• Leading and managing ornithology projects from inception to completion.
• Collaborating with clients, stakeholders, and internal teams to deliver high-quality outcomes.
• Providing expert advice on ornithological matters and ensuring compliance with relevant legislation and policies.
• Reviewing and approving technical reports and deliverables.
• Supporting the development of team members through mentoring and training.
• Contributing to business development activities, including preparing proposals and engaging with potential clients.

Benefits

This role offers a range of benefits, including:

• Senior-level influence within a growing consultancy.
• A flexible hybrid working model to support work-life balance.
• Generous annual leave entitlement plus bank holidays.
• Continuous Professional Development (CPD) allowance and paid professional memberships.
• Private healthcare and a competitive pension scheme.
• A clear route for career progression within the leadership structure.

If you are an experienced ornithologist looking for a senior leadership role where you can make a real impact, we encourage you to apply. Join a consultancy that values expertise, fosters professional growth, and offers the opportunity to shape the future of the business.

Apply now to take the next step in your career as a Principal Ornithologist.