Head of Ornithology (Avian Ecology) in Stretton

At Origin Enterprises, we are dedicated to championing sustainable land use, and our Environmental teams support a diverse range of clients and projects—from land management and development to restoration and conservation. Joining us means becoming part of a collaborative, purpose driven community where this collective expertise enables us to deliver high quality, fully integrated solutions and contribute to meaningful environmental outcomes across the UK and Ireland.

About Avian Ecology

Avian Ecology is a growing ecological consultancy delivering complex infrastructure and land-use projects across the UK, with a strong and expanding portfolio in the renewables sector including onshore wind and solar. As our workload continues to increase in technical complexity and scale, particularly across EIA developments and NSIP/DCO/S36 applications, we are investing in strengthening our internal technical leadership capability. We are therefore seeking to appoint a Head of Ornithology who will act as the ornithological technical authority within the business; supporting the delivery of robust, defensible advice and maintaining technical excellence across a growing team of Principal Ecologists and Consultants.

The successful candidate will ideally be based in our Lower Stretton office, although hybrid or remote working will be considered. The role will include:

• Acting as technical lead for complex ornithological inputs to EIA and NSIP/DCO/S36 projects
• Leading development of survey strategies for renewables projects and other developments
• Technical Document Authoring and Input, including but not limited to Bespoke Technical Documents and Notes, Inquiry and Hearing Proofs and Supporting Documentation and HRA
• Oversee and contribute to ES / EIA-R Chapters and EcIA, as required
• Impact assessment and mitigation
• Tendering of complex projects
• Leading responses to technical consultation and examination questions
• Supporting planning appeals and examination processes where required
• Leading, mentoring and developing our team of Ornithologists
• Supporting internal technical standards and consistency of approach
• Contributing to continuous improvement of survey and assessment methodologies

Key Requirements:

• Degree qualified in relevant field
• Full CIEEM Membership (desirable)
• Significant consultancy experience at Principal level or above
• Experience of managing and developing a team
• Strong knowledge of UK bird ecology and survey methodologies
• Demonstrable experience advising on ornithological requirements for infrastructure projects
• Experience of EcIA, ES and HRA authorship and technical review
• Understanding of UK ecological policy and legislation
• Strong experience of field ornithology survey techniques
• Full UK Driving License (desirable)
• Experience of Planning Appeals or DCO Examination (desirable)

Why work for us?

We offer a competitive and supportive rewards package designed to help you thrive both professionally and personally. This includes Life Assurance, access to our Employee Assistance Programme (EAP), and paid professional memberships such as CIEEM. We’re committed to continuous development, offering a blend of internal and external training opportunities to help you grow your skills and advance your career. As part of our inclusive culture, you’ll have the opportunity to join our monthly Neurodiversity Café, take part in community action days, and benefit from our family friendly policies, including enhanced family leave options. While we value time spent together in our offices to collaborate and stay connected, most roles offer hybrid working and open conversations around flexibility. New for 2026, colleagues can now purchase additional annual leave, giving you more freedom to balance work and life in a way that suits you. You’ll also enjoy 25 days’ holiday, regular performance and development reviews, and the chance to collaborate across the wider Origin Group, especially within our growing family of Environmental businesses. We actively encourage applications from all backgrounds and are proud to be building a diverse, inclusive team where everyone can grow, contribute and feel valued. Visit our website to learn more — and grow with us.