Principal Ornithologist – Scotland

Overview
Embankment Group is proud to partner with a leading environmental consultancy in their search for a Principal Ornithologist to join their established ecology team in Scotland. This is a senior-level role that offers the opportunity to lead ornithological workstreams on high-profile renewable energy and infrastructure projects, with a particular focus on wind energy developments.

This position is ideal for an experienced ornithologist who thrives on combining technical expertise with project management and leadership. The role also offers the chance to mentor junior ecologists and contribute to the growth of the consultancy’s ecological services.

If you are passionate about delivering sustainable solutions while protecting biodiversity, this is an excellent opportunity to make a meaningful impact.

Responsibilities
As a Principal Ornithologist, you will:

• Design, manage, and oversee ornithological survey programmes and assessments for energy and infrastructure projects.
• Prepare and review technical reports, including ornithological assessments, Habitats Regulations Assessments (HRA), and Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIA).
• Coordinate complex ecological survey packages, working with internal teams and specialist subcontractors.
• Develop fee proposals, scopes of work, and support tender submissions.
• Manage project delivery, ensuring timelines, budgets, and quality standards are met.
• Provide technical leadership on ornithology-related aspects of renewable energy and infrastructure projects.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, regulators, and other stakeholders.
• Mentor and support the professional development of junior ecology staff.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including planning, landscape, hydrology, and environmental assessment specialists.
• Contribute to business development by identifying opportunities to expand ecological services and supporting marketing efforts.

Qualifications

Essential:

• Extensive experience conducting ornithological surveys and assessments.
• Strong understanding of environmental planning systems and ornithological impact assessments.
• Proven experience contributing to Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) and Habitats Regulations Assessments (HRA).
• In-depth knowledge of wildlife legislation and designated site assessments.
• Demonstrated ability to manage ecological projects, including budgets and survey planning.
• Proven track record of producing and reviewing high-quality technical reports.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with clients, regulators, and project teams.
• Degree in ecology, biological sciences, or a related discipline.
• Membership, or eligibility for membership, of the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM).
• Full UK driving licence.

Desirable:

• Experience working on renewable energy or major infrastructure projects, particularly wind energy.
• Additional ecological skills, such as expertise in protected species or habitat assessments.
• Experience in tender preparation and business development activities.

Day-to-Day

• Lead and manage ornithological surveys and assessments, ensuring high technical standards.
• Oversee project delivery, including resource allocation, timelines, and budgets.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to integrate ecological considerations into project designs.
• Provide expert advice to clients and stakeholders on ornithological and ecological matters.
• Mentor and guide junior team members, fostering their professional growth.
• Engage in business development activities, including preparing proposals and identifying new opportunities.
• Occasionally travel across Scotland to support project requirements.

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Generous annual leave entitlement.
• Flexible working arrangements, including hybrid working options.
• Opportunities for professional development and career progression.
• Access to a supportive and collaborative work environment.
• The chance to work on high-profile renewable energy and infrastructure projects that contribute to sustainable development.
• Membership support for professional bodies such as CIEEM.

Join Us
If you are an experienced ornithologist with a passion for renewable energy and ecological consultancy, we invite you to apply for this exciting opportunity. Take the next step in your career and contribute to projects that make a real difference to the environment and communities across Scotland.

Apply today to become a key part of a dynamic team shaping the future of sustainable development.