Location
Liverpool, UK (Hybrid working model)

Hours
Full Time

Salary
Competitive, commensurate with experience

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 developments in energy, water, renewables, defence, and transport sectors, as well as smaller local projects. Your role will involve managing the preparation of high-quality, commercially astute bids and tenders, overseeing ornithological aspects from project conception through survey scoping, liaison with statutory bodies, and final assessment. You will act as lead verifier to ensure technical excellence, author and review Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) chapters and Habitat Regulations Assessments (HRA), and plan and organise bird survey and analysis projects to meet programme and budget requirements. You will also undertake field surveys as needed and provide consultancy and advisory services to internal and external clients. As a senior member of the team, you will mentor junior staff and lead strategic initiatives to enhance ornithology expertise and processes within the region. This role offers the opportunity to work within a forward-thinking, inclusive environment where innovation and professional development are encouraged, supported by flexible hybrid working arrangements and a comprehensive benefits package.

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 projects from survey scoping through to final assessment and reporting

About you
- Strong understanding of UK or Irish wildlife conservation legislation and policy related to birds
- Proactive approach to Health and Safety
- Excellent communication skills, able to engage professionally with clients, colleagues, and statutory bodies
- Committed to innovation, continuous professional development, and mentoring junior staff
- Enthusiastic about working collaboratively 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
- Relevant academic qualifications in ecology, ornithology, or related disciplines preferred