Principal Ornithologist

Eden Scott; City of Edinburgh; Hybrid; GBP 50,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Principal Ornithologist to drive innovative projects focused on biodiversity and sustainable development. This role offers the flexibility to work from various locations, including Edinburgh and Inverness, and provides a unique opportunity to lead a talented team in ecological consultancy. You will be instrumental in shaping strategies that enhance habitats and support ecological innovation. If you are passionate about making a positive environmental impact and guiding junior professionals, this position is perfect for you. Join a supportive team culture that values career development and offers competitive benefits.

Benefits

33 days annual leave

Flexible working arrangements

Performance-related bonus

Career development opportunities

Enhanced maternity leave

Qualifications

• Proven experience in ecological consultancy with a focus on ornithology.
• Strong understanding of UK and European wildlife legislation.

Responsibilities

• Lead ornithological aspects of projects ensuring high-quality deliverables.
• Collaborate with multi-disciplinary teams in ecology and planning.

Skills

Ecological Consultancy

Ornithology

Biodiversity Strategies

Data Interpretation

Project Management

Education

Degree in Ecology

Membership in Professional Body (e.g., CIEEM)

Job description

Principal Ornithologist

Location: Edinburgh, Inverness - Fully Flexible Working

Position: Full-time, Permanent

Salary: £50,000 - £55,000 + Bonus

Benefits: 33 days annual leave, flexible/hybrid working, bonus scheme, career development opportunities

Are you an experienced Ornithologist with a passion for sustainable development and biodiversity? Would you like to take the lead on innovative projects focused on positive environmental outcomes and nature-based solutions? If so, this is a fantastic opportunity to step into a Principal-level role with a leading environmental consultancy committed to creating a greener future.

Our client is seeking a Principal Ornithologist to join their growing team. While the preferred base is Edinburgh, they offer true flexibility - meaning you can choose to work from Inverness or from home, with the support of a hybrid working model that fits around your lifestyle.

About the Role

As a Principal Ornithologist, you'll work closely with talented colleagues across Ecology and other environmental disciplines, leading on a variety of projects that support biodiversity enhancement, habitat restoration, and sustainable development. You'll also help shape how ornithological data is collected, analysed, and applied to real-world outcomes.

This is a fantastic opportunity for a senior professional ready to play a strategic role in delivering ecological innovation and guiding junior team members.

Key Responsibilities

1. Lead and manage ornithological aspects of projects, ensuring high-quality deliverables across planning, design, and assessment stages.
2. Collaborate across multi-disciplinary teams, especially within ecology and environmental planning.
3. Provide technical leadership in bird survey design, data interpretation, and impact assessment.
4. Contribute to the development of biodiversity strategies, habitat enhancement schemes, and nature-based solutions.
5. Mentor and support junior ecologists and consultants.
6. Build strong client relationships and represent the business in meetings and stakeholder discussions.

What We're Looking For

1. Proven experience working in ecological consultancy or a similar setting, with a strong focus on ornithology.
2. In-depth understanding of UK and European wildlife legislation, planning policy, and impact assessment guidance.
3. Experience leading bird surveys and preparing Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) and Habitats Regulations Appraisals (HRAs).
4. A passion for biodiversity, sustainability, and innovation in environmental delivery.
5. Ability to lead projects, manage budgets, and engage confidently with clients and stakeholders.
6. Relevant degree (Ecology, Environmental Science, or similar) and membership of a professional body (e.g. CIEEM).

What's on Offer

1. Competitive salary of £50,000 - £55,000, plus a performance-related bonus.
2. 33 days annual leave (including public holidays).
3. Enhanced maternity leave.
4. Truly flexible working arrangements.
5. Opportunity to work on innovative and impactful projects that support biodiversity and sustainable development.
6. Supportive, inclusive team culture with excellent career development pathways.

If you're looking for a role where you can truly influence ecological outcomes and be part of a forward-thinking consultancy, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply today to take the next step in your ecological career.