Ornithologist

Principal Marine Ornithologist – Glasgow (Hybrid)

Environmental Consultancy Offshore Wind UK & International Projects

A leading environmental consultancy is seeking a Principal Marine Ornithologist to join its established Marine Ornithology team. This is a key role supporting the delivery of high‑quality ornithological assessments, habitat compensation plans, and strategic advice for major renewable energy developments.

The position is based in Glasgow on a hybrid basis
, with flexibility built around team and project needs. While the core workload focuses on Scottish offshore wind and wider Scottish renewables
, there are opportunities to contribute to international projects for candidates with the right expertise.

As a Principal Marine Ornithologist, you will play a central role in delivering technical, analytical, and advisory work across a range of offshore wind and marine development projects.

Responsibilities include:

• Leading the preparation of ornithological assessments, including EIAs and HRAs
• Developing and delivering habitat compensation and monitoring plans
• Providing technical leadership on seabird ecology and offshore ornithology
• Managing projects, budgets, timelines, and client relationships
• Supporting tender submissions and business development activities
• Undertaking and overseeing seabird fieldwork and survey programmes
  
  Contributing to strategic research and guidance within the marine ornithology discipline

You will be joining a UK‑wide ecology function of around 200 ecologists
, including a dedicated ECoW team, with strong collaboration across disciplines.

We are keen to hear from candidates who can demonstrate:

• Strong experience in ornithological impact assessment and environmental planning
• Knowledge of seabird ecology, offshore survey methods, and designated site assessments
• Experience with ESAS, colony counts, or digital aerial survey data
• Excellent project management and client‑facing skills
• Ability to produce high‑quality technical reports and deliver work to deadline
• Higher degree in ecology or a related field, or equivalent experience

Desirable skills include: collision risk modelling, spatial modelling, displacement analysis, PVA, and experience with offshore wind assessments.

This organisation offers a comprehensive and competitive benefits package, including:

• 25 days annual leave + statutory holidays
• Option to buy/sell up to 5 days
• BUPA private healthcare (extendable to family at cost)
• 4x death in service
• Permanent health insurance (after 13 weeks continuous illness)
• Annual bonus (typically 2–7%, paid April/May)
• Professional fees covered
• Agile working hours (core hours 10:00–16:00)
• Hybrid working
  , tailored to individual and team needs

Progression is structured and transparent:

• Promotion windows in April and October
• Self‑submission process
  : employees put themselves forward when ready, supported by evidence
• Dedicated Learning & Development team to help identify and fill skills gaps
• Annual development meeting with your manager to plan training and progression