Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead bird surveys and assessments for diverse projects, providing expert advice and technical leadership.
- Company: Join a leading consultancy focused on ecology and conservation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in conservation while advancing your career in ornithology.
- Qualifications: Degree in Ecology or Zoology with 5+ years of relevant experience.
- Other info: Work in a dynamic environment with opportunities to mentor junior ecologists.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
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.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Principal Ornithologist employer: Antal International Network
Contact Detail:
Antal International Network Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Ornithologist
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to fellow ornithologists and industry professionals on LinkedIn or at local events. Building connections can lead to job opportunities that aren’t even advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio showcasing your best ornithological surveys and reports. When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, having tangible evidence of your expertise can really set you apart.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job openings to pop up. Reach out to companies you admire and express your interest in working with them. Sometimes, they might create a position just for you!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We make it super easy for you to submit your application directly. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our team. Don’t miss out on the chance to land that Principal Ornithologist role!
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Ornithologist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience in ornithology and consultancy. We want to see how your skills match the job description, so don’t be shy about showcasing your bird ID skills and project management experience!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about ornithology and how you can contribute to our projects. We love seeing enthusiasm and a personal touch, so let your personality come through.
Showcase Your Technical Skills: Don’t forget to mention any technical skills you have, like GIS or R. If you’ve worked with ornithological modelling tools or have experience in renewable energy sectors, make sure to highlight that. We’re looking for someone who can hit the ground running!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensures you get all the latest updates. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Antal International Network
✨Know Your Birds Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your bird identification skills, both visual and acoustic. Be prepared to discuss specific species relevant to the projects you'll be working on, and have examples ready of how you've applied your knowledge in past roles.
✨Understand the Legislation
Familiarise yourself with UK legislation, planning policy, and ornithological guidance. Being able to articulate how these regulations impact your work will show that you're not just knowledgeable but also proactive in ensuring compliance.
✨Showcase Your Project Management Skills
Be ready to discuss your experience managing projects and teams. Highlight specific examples where you've led surveys or assessments, managed budgets, or mentored junior staff. This will demonstrate your leadership capabilities and your ability to deliver high-quality results.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Prepare to talk about your experience liaising with clients, statutory bodies, and NGOs. Share examples of how you've represented your company at meetings and contributed to proposals or tenders. This will illustrate your communication skills and your ability to build relationships in the field.
