Senior/Principal Ecologist (Avian Ecology)

Origin Enterprises plc; England; Hybrid; GBP 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

A consultancy focused on ecological services is seeking a Senior or Principal Ecologist. The role involves leading projects, conducting ecological assessments, and mentoring junior staff. Candidates should have strong project management skills and experience with UK environmental policies. This full-time position offers a competitive salary and flexible working options including remote work.

Benefits

Competitive remuneration package

Flexible working environment

Professional development support

Qualifications

• Strong experience in desk-based project management, reporting, and ecological assessments.
• Experience in mentoring junior staff and managing small teams.
• A clear understanding of relevant UK-wide environmental/ecological policy and legislation.
• Demonstrable ability to produce clear, succinct, and robust technical reports.

Responsibilities

• Lead projects and prepare detailed reports.
• Conduct ecological assessments and engage with clients.
• Liaise with planning authorities and stakeholders.
• Supervise junior ecologists and coordinate sub-consultants.

Skills

Project management

Ecological assessments

Mentorship

Strong communication skills

Knowledge of UK environmental policy

Education

Relevant degree

CIEEM membership

Job description

Avian Ecology is looking for an experienced Senior or Principal Ecologist to join our team of skilled professionals in response to our continued growth, particularly in the renewables sector.

About Us:

Over the last decade, Avian has earned a reputation for professional excellence and delivering services to the highest standards on projects of all scales across the UK. Our clients are from both the public and private sectors, and our project portfolio is diverse, challenging, and interesting.

Avian Ecology provides a highly professional and progressive environment while also offering the benefits associated with a medium-sized consultancy.

We are committed to attracting and retaining the highest calibre of personnel and providing them with an opportunity to flourish in an environment where excellence and progression are encouraged, supported, and rewarded.

We offer a strong remuneration package in a friendly, dynamic, and flexible working environment with home working opportunities. We also support and encourage professional development and training.

Avian Ecology has offices located in Lower Stretton (near Warrington) and Falkirk in Scotland. The successful candidate will have the flexibility to work from either office or work from home (with prior agreement).

The Role:

As a Senior or Principal Ecologist, your role will primarily focus on desk-based responsibilities, including leading projects, preparing detailed reports, and conducting ecological assessments. You will also work as part of a larger project team. While the work will be varied, there will be a strong focus on renewable energy schemes, particularly wind projects, as well as more conventional development projects.

You will engage with clients remotely, providing clear advice and robust documentation to support projects across the UK. Liaising with planning authorities, statutory agencies, and stakeholders will be a key part of the role, offering excellent opportunities to further develop your project management skills. You will also supervise junior ecologists and co-ordinate sub-consultants.

Key requirements are:

• Strong experience in desk-based project management, reporting, and ecological assessments.
• Experience in mentoring junior staff and managing small teams.
• A clear understanding of relevant UK-wide environmental/ecological policy and legislation.
• Demonstrable ability to produce clear, succinct, and robust technical reports, including Preliminary Ecological Appraisals, Ecological Impact Assessments, and Technical Appendices.
• Experience in advising clients on the ecological requirements of their projects and consulting with regulators and stakeholders.
• Strong communication skills.
• A flexible, diligent, and proactive person who is motivated to work independently or as part of a team to consistently high standards.
• Previous consultancy experience is required.
• Candidates will have a relevant degree and preferably be a CIEEM member, along with a full clean driver's license.

This is a full-time permanent role. Salary will be competitive and dependent on experience.

As with all of our team, the successful candidate will be diligent, passionate, professional, and enthusiastic with a flexible approach to working.