Location
Croydon

Hours
Hybrid working model with flexibility to work from an AECOM office, remote location, or client site

Salary
Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package tailored to support your future and well-being

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, supporting a diverse portfolio including large infrastructure projects in energy, water, renewables, defence, and transport sectors, as well as smaller local initiatives. Your role will involve overseeing all phases of ornithological work from bid preparation to final assessment, ensuring delivery of high-quality, commercially astute services.

Key responsibilities include managing ornithological aspects of projects, acting as lead verifier to maintain technical standards, authoring and reviewing Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) chapters and Habitat Regulations Assessments (HRA), planning and scheduling bird surveys, and delivering consultancy services to internal and external clients. You will also mentor junior staff and contribute to strategic initiatives to enhance ornithology expertise within the region.

At AECOM, you will be part of a global team of over 50,000 professionals committed to delivering sustainable infrastructure solutions that positively impact communities worldwide. Our inclusive and forward-thinking environment supports your professional growth through career development opportunities, technical practice networks, AECOM University, and volunteering days. Embrace innovation and help shape the future of environmental consultancy with us.

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 surveys, assessments, and advisory services across a range of habitats including grassland, woodland, moorland, wetland, and coastal environments

About you
- Strong understanding of UK or Irish wildlife conservation legislation and policy relating to birds
- Proactive approach to Health and Safety
- Effective communicator with the ability to engage professionally with clients, colleagues, and statutory bodies
- Committed to innovation, continuous professional development, and mentoring junior staff
- Enthusiastic about contributing to strategic initiatives and improving regional ornithology capabilities

Qualifications
- Membership of an appropriate professional institution (e.g., CIEEM) with evidence of working towards Chartered status
- Relevant academic qualifications in ecology, ornithology, or related disciplines preferred
- Commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace