Ornithologist

Senior Ornithologist – Scotland
Salary: £35,000 – £45,000
Working Model: Hybrid + Fieldwork

Overview

A well-established multidisciplinary consultancy is seeking a Senior Ornithologist to join its growing ecology function. This role offers the chance to lead high-impact ornithological surveys, shape ecological strategy on major UK projects, and support the development of junior colleagues within a collaborative, supportive team.

If you’re looking for technical challenge, meaningful conservation impact and clear career progression, this is an excellent next step.

Role Purpose

The Senior Ornithologist will provide specialist ornithological advice and project management across a diverse portfolio of developments, including residential, energy, infrastructure, defence and public-sector projects.

You will lead multi-season bird surveys, contribute to impact assessments and mitigation design, support Habitat Regulations work, and collaborate closely with planners, engineers and other technical specialists to integrate ecological considerations into project delivery.

Key Responsibilities

Survey Design & Delivery

• Lead robust wintering, passage and breeding bird surveys across a range of landscapes and project types.
• Ensure data collection meets regulatory, scientific and project-specific requirements.

Technical Reporting & Review

• Produce clear, defensible ecological reports for planning and assessment stages.
• Review technical outputs prepared by colleagues to ensure accuracy and quality.

Project & Client Management

• Manage multiple projects concurrently, overseeing budgets, timelines and client expectations.
• Maintain strong relationships with clients, regulators and stakeholders.

Mentoring & Team Development

• Support junior ecologists through coaching, technical guidance and knowledge sharing.
• Contribute to internal training and help build a high-performing ecology team.

Cross-Disciplinary Collaboration

• Work closely with colleagues across planning, engineering and environmental disciplines.
• Support business development through high-quality technical and commercial input.

Qualifications & Experience

Essential

• Degree in a relevant environmental or ecological discipline.
• Strong consultancy experience with a proven track record in ornithological survey delivery.
• Experience managing projects and engaging directly with clients.
• Membership of (or eligibility for) a relevant professional body such as CIEEM.
• Full UK driving licence and the right to work in the UK.

Desirable

• Additional protected species or habitat skills.
• Experience with complex or multi-season survey programmes.
• Strong GIS or data-analysis capability.

Working Environment

• Hybrid working with a balance of fieldwork, office collaboration and remote reporting.
• Regular site visits and client meetings across the UK.
• Supportive environment with structured CPD, internal training, and clear career pathways.
• Flexible working arrangements, car or car allowance options, and incentives for licence attainment or chartership.