Principal Ornithologist

Antal International Network; United Kingdom; Hybrid; Confidential; Full time

Job summary

A leading environmental consultancy in the UK is seeking a Principal Ornithologist to lead bird surveys and provide technical leadership across various projects. The ideal candidate will have at least 5 years of ornithological experience, strong bird identification skills, and knowledge of UK legislation. Responsibilities include managing projects, mentoring junior staff, and liaising with stakeholders. This role offers competitive compensation and the possibility to be based near major cities such as Bristol or Sheffield.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years’ ornithological experience in consultancy, conservation, or applied research.
• Membership of CIEEM (Associate or Full); Chartered status desirable or working towards.
• Experience managing projects, budgets, and staff.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, coordination, and delivery of ornithological surveys and assessments.
• Advise clients and colleagues on legislation, mitigation, and monitoring strategies.
• Liaise with statutory bodies, NGOs, and stakeholders.

Skills

Strong bird ID skills

Project management

Excellent understanding of UK legislation

Education

Degree in Ecology, Zoology, or related subject

MSc desirable

Tools

GIS

R

Job description

The Role We are seeking an experienced Principal Ornithologist to lead bird survey, assessment, and advisory work across a wide range of projects, including infrastructure, utilities, residential development, and conservation. You will provide technical leadership, manage projects and teams, and act as the key ornithological contact for clients and stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, coordination, and delivery of ornithological surveys and assessments (breeding, wintering, vantage point, collision risk modelling, etc.).
• Provide technical input to EIAs, HRAs, Biodiversity Net Gain assessments, and planning applications.
• Analyse and interpret ornithological data; review and author high-quality reports.
• Advise clients and colleagues on legislation, mitigation, and monitoring strategies.
• Mentor and support junior ecologists, ensuring consistency and high standards.
• Liaise with statutory bodies, NGOs, and stakeholders; represent the company at meetings.
• Contribute to proposals, tenders, and business development.

About You

• Degree in Ecology, Zoology, or related subject (MSc desirable).
• Minimum 5 years’ ornithological experience in consultancy, conservation, or applied research.
• Membership of CIEEM (Associate or Full); Chartered status desirable or working towards.
• Strong bird ID skills (visual and acoustic) and proven survey experience.
• Excellent understanding of UK legislation, planning policy, and ornithological guidance.
• Experience managing projects, budgets, and staff.
• Full UK driving licence and flexibility to travel.

Desirable

• Experience with GIS, R, or ornithological modelling tools.
• Knowledge of renewable energy or infrastructure sectors.
• Published research or technical contributions in ornithology.
• Familiarity with emerging survey/monitoring technologies.

This role can be based in the vicinities of Bristol, Stafford, Sheffield, Bollington or Beeston.