Senior Ornithologist

Overview

We’re working with a growing environmental consultancy in Scotland that is looking to strengthen its ecology team with an experienced Senior Ornithologist. This is a genuinely collaborative business with a refreshed leadership team, a strong technical reputation, and a clear focus on delivering practical, high-quality environmental solutions.

This role is ideal for an ornithologist who enjoys taking technical ownership of projects, values teamwork, and is eager to contribute to the continued development of a multidisciplinary ecology offering.

Responsibilities

As a Senior Ornithologist, you will:

• Lead ornithology elements of projects from scoping through to delivery.
• Design and conduct breeding and non-breeding bird surveys using appropriate methodologies.
• Produce clear, well-structured technical outputs, including survey reports, EcIAs, EIA biodiversity chapters, HRAs, and mitigation strategies.
• Provide specialist advice to clients and internal teams on ornithology constraints and solutions.
• Support fee proposals and assist with business development activities.
• Coordinate with sub-consultants and other technical disciplines.
• Mentor graduates and early-career consultants.
• Work in line with relevant professional codes of conduct.

Qualifications

Essential:

• Degree or Master’s in ecology, environmental science, or a related field.
• Membership with CIEEM, with progress towards Chartership.
• Strong ornithology survey experience on medium to large sites.
• Excellent bird identification skills across a range of habitats.
• Sound understanding of UK legislation, planning policy, and EIA processes.
• Confident report writing and technical review skills.
• Experience contributing to proposals and fee bids.
• Full UK driving licence.

Desirable:

• Experience using project management software.
• CSCS or EMSS Safety Passport.
• LANTRA 4x4 and Outdoor First Aid certifications.

Day-to-Day

Your day-to-day responsibilities will include:

• Planning and conducting ornithological surveys across diverse habitats.
• Collaborating with ecology, hydrology, aquatics, and construction colleagues across the UK.
• Preparing high-quality technical reports and assessments.
• Advising clients on ornithological constraints and mitigation strategies.
• Mentoring and supporting junior team members.
• Engaging in business development and contributing to fee proposals.
• Ensuring compliance with professional standards and environmental regulations.

Benefits

• 25 days of annual leave plus Scottish bank holidays.
• 20 CPD (Continuing Professional Development) days per year.
• Paid professional membership.
• Flexible working arrangements and a TOIL (Time Off in Lieu) policy.
• Paid lunch.
• Private healthcare.
• Pension contribution.
• £37,000 - £45,000

If you are an experienced ornithologist looking to take the next step in your career and contribute to a dynamic and collaborative team, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity. Join us in delivering high-quality environmental solutions and making a positive impact on the natural world.