Location
Croydon

Hours
Hybrid working model offering flexibility between office, remote, and client site work

Salary
Competitive salary with a wide array of compensation, benefits and well-being programs tailored to support your future and lifestyle

About the Role
Join AECOM’s dynamic Nature team as a Principal or Associate Director specializing in Ornithology. You will lead and manage ornithological projects across the UK and Ireland, working on a diverse portfolio including large infrastructure projects in energy, water, renewables, defence, and transport sectors, as well as smaller local initiatives. Your responsibilities will include preparing high-quality and commercially astute bids and tenders, managing projects from survey scoping through to final assessment, and acting as lead verifier to ensure technical excellence. You will author and review key ornithology deliverables such as EIA chapters and HRAs, plan and organise bird survey and analysis work, and provide consultancy and advisory services to internal and external clients. This role offers the opportunity to develop pragmatic solutions to complex ecological challenges across a variety of bird habitats including grassland, woodland, moorland, wetland, and coastal environments. You will also mentor junior staff and lead strategic initiatives to enhance ornithology expertise and processes within the region. At AECOM, you will thrive in an inclusive, forward-thinking environment that values innovation, diversity, and professional growth. Benefit from career development opportunities, technical practice networks, AECOM University, volunteering days, and a flexible hybrid working model designed to support your work-life balance.

Experience
- Proven track record in planning and delivering ornithology projects in the UK or Ireland
- Excellent field skills in at least one specialist area of ornithology
- Experience managing ornithological aspects of projects including survey scoping, liaison with statutory bodies, and final assessments

About you
- Proactive approach to Health and Safety
- Strong communication skills to engage effectively with clients, project teams, and stakeholders
- Ability to mentor junior staff and lead strategic initiatives
- Commitment to innovation and continuous professional development
- Enthusiastic about working within a diverse and inclusive team environment

Qualifications
- Membership of an appropriate professional institution (e.g., CIEEM) with evidence of working towards Chartership or equivalent
- Well-developed understanding of UK or Irish wildlife conservation legislation and policy, particularly relating to bird protection