Senior Ecologist

Senior/Principal Ecologist

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

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 projects.

We are led by skilled ecologists who also understand business. We deliver a professional service based on pragmatic advice, strong relationships and robust reporting. Our belief is that progressive development and the conservation of our natural heritage can co-exist, as we have demonstrated time and again through our projects across the UK.

The role will include:

As a Senior or Principal Ecologist, your role will focus on leading projects, preparing detailed reports, and conducting ecological assessments, you will also work as part of a larger project team. While the work will be varied, there will be a strong focus on renewable energy schemes, particularly wind projects, as well as more conventional development projects.

You will engage with clients remotely, providing clear advice and robust documentation to support projects across the UK. Liaising with planning authorities, statutory agencies, and stakeholders will be a key part of the role, offering excellent opportunities to further develop your project management skills. You will also supervise junior ecologists and co-ordinate sub-consultants.

Key Requirements:

Strong experience in desk-based project management, reporting, and ecological assessments.

Experience working on renewable wind projects.

Experience in mentoring junior staff and managing small teams.

A clear understanding of relevant UK-wide environmental/ecological policy and legislation.

Demonstrable ability to produce clear, succinct, and robust technical reports, including: Preliminary Ecological Appraisals, Ecological Impact Assessments, and Technical Appendices.

Experience in advising clients on the ecological requirements of their projects and consulting with regulators and stakeholders.

Strong communication skills.

A flexible, diligent, and proactive person who is motivated to work independently or as part of a team to consistently high standards.

Previous consultancy experience is required.

Candidates will have a relevant degree and preferably be a CIEEM member, along with a full clean driver’s license.

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.

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.

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