Location
Croydon

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

Salary
Competitive salary and benefits package tailored to individual 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 large infrastructure developments in energy, water, renewables, defence, and transport sectors, as well as smaller local projects. Your role will involve managing bids and tenders, overseeing survey design and delivery, liaising with statutory bodies, and authoring high-quality ornithological assessments including EIA chapters and HRA. You will act as lead verifier to ensure technical excellence and compliance, plan and organise bird survey projects, and provide expert consultancy and advisory services to clients. Additionally, you will mentor junior staff and contribute to strategic initiatives to enhance ornithology capabilities within the region. This is an exciting opportunity to work within a global team of over 230 ecology professionals, delivering impactful projects that support environmental sustainability and community wellbeing. AECOM offers a forward-thinking, inclusive environment with career development opportunities, flexible working arrangements, and a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your personal and professional growth.

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 complex ecological projects and delivering high-quality technical reports

About you
- Strong understanding of UK or Irish wildlife conservation legislation and policy protecting birds
- Proactive approach to Health and Safety
- Effective communicator with ability 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
- Relevant academic qualifications in ecology, ornithology, or related disciplines
- Commitment to ongoing professional development and technical excellence