Senior Ornithologist – Leeds

Overview

Our client, a leading global environmental consultancy, is seeking a dedicated and experienced Senior Ornithologist to join their expanding team in Leeds. With a proven track record of delivering high-quality ecological services across diverse sectors, our client is looking for a professional who can contribute to their growing portfolio of projects while mentoring junior team members and maintaining strong client relationships.

This is an exciting opportunity to work with a multi-award-winning ecology team that values collaboration, innovation, and professional development. The role offers flexible working arrangements, a supportive team environment, and the chance to work on a variety of impactful projects across the UK.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage ornithological surveys, including winter, breeding, and passage bird surveys, ensuring high-quality data collection and analysis.
• Oversee the delivery of multiple projects, meeting client expectations and adhering to deadlines.
• Provide technical expertise and review project deliverables, ensuring compliance with industry standards and best practices.
• Collaborate with clients, stakeholders, and multidisciplinary teams to develop innovative and practical solutions.
• Mentor and support junior ecologists, fostering their professional growth and development.
• Contribute to the preparation of technical reports, Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs), and Habitat Regulations Assessments (HRAs).
• Maintain and build strong client relationships, ensuring repeat business and client satisfaction.
• Stay updated on industry trends, legislation, and best practices to ensure the delivery of cutting-edge ecological services.

Qualifications

• A degree in ecology, environmental science, or a related discipline.
• Proven experience in ornithology, including conducting and managing bird surveys.
• Strong project management skills, with the ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously.
• Membership of, or eligibility to join, the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM).
• A full UK driving licence and legal entitlement to work in the UK.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the confidence to liaise with clients and stakeholders.
• Financial awareness and the ability to manage project budgets effectively.
• Experience in mentoring and supporting junior staff is highly desirable.
• Additional ecological skills outside of ornithology would be advantageous.

Day-to-Day

• Conduct fieldwork, including bird surveys, across a variety of sites and sectors.
• Collaborate with colleagues and clients to deliver high-quality ecological solutions.
• Review and provide feedback on technical reports and project deliverables.
• Manage project timelines, budgets, and resources to ensure successful delivery.
• Support junior team members through mentoring and training.
• Attend meetings with clients and stakeholders to discuss project requirements and progress.
• Work closely with multidisciplinary teams to integrate ecological considerations into broader project objectives.

Benefits

• Fully flexible, hybrid working arrangements to support work-life balance.
• Opportunities for professional development, including in-house project management and technical training.
• Access to a wide range of projects across sectors such as residential, defence, energy, and transport.
• Company-provided car or car allowance for personal and professional use.
• Established Time Off in Lieu (TOIL) system to accommodate seasonal demands and personal needs.
• Collaborative and supportive team environment with a focus on innovation and excellence.
• Recognition as part of an award-winning ecology team, including recent accolades from CIEEM.

If you are a passionate and experienced ornithologist looking to take the next step in your career, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity. Join a team that values your expertise, supports your professional growth, and offers the chance to make a meaningful impact on the environment.

Apply today to become a key part of this dynamic and forward-thinking consultancy.