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- Tasks: Join us as a Principal Ornithologist, managing environmental assessments and engaging with clients.
- Company: ABPmer is the UK's leading marine consultancy with 75 years of experience in sustainable development.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, a matched pension plan, private health insurance, and continuous professional development.
- Why this job: Be part of exciting projects that support marine conservation and work in a collaborative, friendly team.
- Qualifications: A degree in an environmental discipline and three years' relevant experience in marine consultancy are required.
- Other info: Apply by 25th August; early applications are encouraged due to high demand.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Overview
We’re the UK\’s largest ports operator with a network of 21 ports around Britain. We handle around one quarter of the UK\’s seaborne trade and contribute £7.5 billion to our economy every year.
It’s a story we’re proud of but it doesn’t end there. We’re transforming our business and embracing the future.
We offer a vast range of roles spanning the UK, all rooted in a culture that welcomes diversity, fosters talent, encourages internal movement and progression, and places safety as our number one priority.
Do you want to work for a company enabling sustainable development in the marine environment?
Are you an experienced project manager with an understanding of marine consents?
Are you ready to extend your knowledge and experience to delivering projects at the coast and offshore?
Role
We are looking for a Principal Consultant to join our team of environment specialists, who will be responsible for managing and advising a wide range of large-scale marine and coastal projects, including Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects.
Type: Permanent
Closing Date: 27th February 2026
Location: Southampton/hybrid working (some travel required)
About us
ABPmer is a consultancy and survey company with a 75-year history helping clients sustainably develop, manage, protect and operate in the marine environment.
We deliver for clients across all marine and coastal sectors, including conservation bodies, fisheries, coastal developers, dredging companies, ports and marina facilities, renewable energy providers and utility companies, as well as government and its agencies.
We provide a wide range of services to help clients achieve their objectives. Our specialists advise on consents and licensing, infrastructure design, habitat creation and restoration, maritime risk, and marine planning and policy, supported by quality in-house data and information, including on-site physical and ecological data collected by our experienced survey team.
Our success is thanks to the knowledge, experience and skills of our people, working in an environment focussed on collaboration, continuous learning and career progression.
Role requirements
You are knowledgeable about the UK marine planning and consents regime and have demonstrable project management experience, preferably within a consultancy environment.
You are highly organised, collaborative and self-motivated, with excellent report writing and engaging presentation skills. You have a strong commitment to sustainable development in the marine environment.
You have a degree or postgraduate degree in a marine environmental discipline, and at least five years’ relevant experience in a consultancy or regulatory background.
Depending on your background, you will have skills and experience in:
- Project management and delivery
- Staff mentoring and development
- Environmental Assessments including Environmental Impact Assessments, Habitats Regulations Assessments, Water Framework Directive assessments, Marine Conservation Zone assessments and Marine Plan Conformance assessments
- Coordinating and managing projects through the marine licensing and consenting process
- Preparation and coordination of the proposal/tendering process
Our team, projects, flexibility and benefits
Our people: We are a friendly, welcoming team focussed on collaborative working. Our culture means you are encouraged to chart your own course to excellence
Our projects: We deliver a diverse portfolio of work, allowing you to apply your expertise to an array of interesting projects and locations
Our flexibility: We understand the importance of good work-life balance, offering flexible arrangements as standard, including hybrid working
Your career development: We operate a programme of continuous professional development supported by tailored, formal and on-the-job training and mentoring
Your benefits: Working for us means you benefit from a contribution-matched pension plan, private medical and dental insurance as well as paid professional subscription, and a range of discount schemes
Our team is growing: We continue to grow to meet the high demand for our bespoke services. Join us as we continue our exciting journey
Application
Please note that the closing date for this role is 27th February 2026, however we may close the vacancy early if we receive a large number of applications, so we recommend you apply as soon as possible.
Additional Information
When joining ABP you will find an environment that is both welcoming and challenging. We reward our employees well and offer a generous remuneration package, employer pension, private health insurance and a range of other benefits.
We are an equal opportunities employer and we welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of their background, which helps us to provide a diverse and inclusive working environment.
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Principal Ornithologist employer: Associated British Ports
Contact Detail:
Associated British Ports Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Ornithologist
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the marine and environmental sectors. Attend conferences, workshops, or webinars related to ornithology and marine ecology to meet potential colleagues and learn about job openings.
✨Tip Number 2
Stay updated on current trends and developments in marine policy and environmental assessments. This knowledge will not only enhance your expertise but also demonstrate your commitment to the field during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific projects you've worked on that relate to marine environments. Be ready to explain your role, the challenges faced, and how you contributed to successful outcomes, as this will showcase your practical experience.
✨Tip Number 4
Familiarise yourself with ABPmer's recent projects and initiatives. Understanding their work will allow you to tailor your discussions and show genuine interest in how you can contribute to their goals.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Ornithologist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in marine ecology, ornithology, and environmental assessments. Use specific examples that demonstrate your skills in project management and data analysis.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for sustainable development in the marine environment. Mention how your background aligns with the responsibilities of the Principal Ornithologist role and express your enthusiasm for contributing to their projects.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Clearly state your degree in an environmental discipline and any additional certifications or training you have completed. Emphasise your three years of relevant experience and any specific projects that relate to the job description.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial in consultancy roles.
How to prepare for a job interview at Associated British Ports
✨Know Your Marine Environment
Make sure to brush up on your knowledge of the marine environment, particularly in relation to ornithology and other relevant disciplines. Be prepared to discuss recent developments or case studies that demonstrate your understanding and passion for sustainable marine practices.
✨Showcase Your Project Management Skills
Since the role involves project management and client engagement, be ready to share specific examples from your past experiences. Highlight how you successfully managed projects, overcame challenges, and delivered results, especially in a consultancy or regulatory context.
✨Prepare for Data Analysis Questions
Expect questions related to data analysis and interpretation. Familiarise yourself with common methodologies and tools used in marine environmental assessments. You might be asked to explain how you would approach analysing specific datasets relevant to the role.
✨Demonstrate Collaborative Spirit
ABPmer values collaboration, so be sure to convey your ability to work well in teams. Share examples of how you've collaborated with colleagues or clients in the past, and how you contributed to a positive team dynamic while achieving project goals.
