Senior Ornithologist or Ecologist with Ornithology focus

ERM; Horsham; Hybrid; GBP 40,000 - 70,000; Part time

Job summary

Join a forward-thinking sustainability consultancy as an Ornithologist, where you will play a vital role in balancing clean energy needs with wildlife protection. This innovative firm is seeking an experienced professional to manage and support renewable energy projects while conducting ecological assessments and mentoring junior team members. With a focus on flexible working arrangements and a commitment to diversity, this position offers excellent opportunities for career development and a chance to make a significant impact in the Renewable Energy sector.

Benefits

25 days annual leave

6% employer pension contributions

Private medical insurance

Performance bonuses

Life assurance

Income protection

Cycle2Work scheme

Travel season ticket loans

Employee assistance programs

Discounts on gyms and retailers

Qualifications

• Experience in consent-based consultancy and ornithology.
• Relevant work experience in ecological assessments.

Responsibilities

• Manage and support renewable energy projects in the UK and internationally.
• Write and review technical ornithology reports and assessments.

Skills

Ecology

Zoology

Consent-based consultancy

Ornithology expertise

Technical report writing

Education

Undergraduate degree in ecology or zoology

Job description

Our time is NOW.

ERM, the world's largest pure play sustainability consultancy, is seeking a talented and experienced Ornithologist, at either Senior or Managing Consultant level depending on experience. We are also open to a Senior Ecologist who can offer Ornithology expertise while handling more varied/generalist tasks. You will support our growing workload and ambitious expansion within the Renewable Energy sector.

You will play a crucial role in assessing and mitigating risks to bird species from wind, solar, and battery storage facilities. Your expertise will help our clients balance the need for clean energy with wildlife and habitat protection.

This position is suitable for an Ornithologist experienced in consent-based consultancy, with a passion for or experience in the Renewable Energy sector. Applications for part-time/flexible work are welcome. We operate on a hybrid basis. Some site visits may be necessary; however, the role is predominantly desk-based (minimum 90%).

The Role

1. Manage, advise, and support renewable and energy infrastructure projects in the UK and internationally.
2. Write and review technical ornithology reports, including Ecological Impact Assessments, Habitats Regulation Appraisals, and Collision Risk Modelling.
3. Design, coordinate, and schedule ornithology surveys.
4. Engage with project managers, stakeholders, and clients, providing technical advice.
5. Mentor junior team members (potential line management).

Why join ERM?

Enjoy flexible working arrangements to suit your lifestyle—whether it's managing school runs, working from home, or traveling. Benefits include 25 days of annual leave plus public holidays, 6% employer pension contributions, biannual promotion opportunities, annual salary reviews, performance bonuses, private medical insurance, life assurance, income protection, EV car salary sacrifice scheme, Cycle2Work scheme, travel season ticket loans, volunteering and Give As You Earn programs, employee assistance, Calm app subscription, and discounts on gyms and retailers.

We foster a safety-first, diverse, and inclusive culture that values differences. Through the ERM Foundation, we support nonprofits and social enterprises committed to sustainability and equity. With a robust career framework and over 20 technical communities of global experts, ERM offers excellent opportunities for career development.

Skills & Experience

1. Undergraduate degree or equivalent in ecology, zoology, or a related field.
2. Relevant work experience in a similar consent-based consultancy role.
3. Membership of a professional body (e.g., CIEEM) or willingness to apply.
4. Full UK driving license.
5. Protected species survey license (advantageous).