Head of Ecology

About Avian Ecology

Avian Ecology, part of the Origin Enterprises group of companies, 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.

As our workload continues to increase in technical complexity and scale, particularly across EIA developments and NSIP/DCO/S36 applications, we are investing in strengthening our internal technical leadership capability.

We are therefore seeking to appoint a Head of Ecology who will act as a technical authority within the business; supporting the delivery of robust, defensible ecological advice and maintaining technical excellence across a growing team of Principal Ecologists and Consultants.

The successful candidate will ideally be based in our Warrington office, although hybrid or remote working will be considered.

The role will include:

• Acting as technical lead for complex ecological inputs to EIA and NSIP/DCO/S36 projects
• Technical Document Authoring and Input, including but not limited to Bespoke Technical Documents and Notes, Inquiry and Hearing Proofs and Supporting Documentation and HRA
• Oversee and contribute to ES / EIA-R Chapters and EcIA, as required
• Supporting project teams in survey design, impact assessment and mitigation
• Tendering of complex projects
• Providing oversight of protected species licensing and mitigation strategies
• Supporting ecological inputs to Biodiversity Net Gain assessments
• Advising on interpretation of policy, guidance and emerging best practice
• Leading responses to technical consultation and examination questions
• Supporting planning appeals and examination processes where required
• Mentoring and supporting the technical development of internal staff
• Supporting internal technical standards and consistency of approach
• Contributing to continuous improvement of survey and assessment methodologies

Key requirements:

• Degree qualified in relevant field
• Full CIEEM Membership (desirable)
• Significant consultancy experience at Principal level or above
• Experience of EcIA, ES and HRA authorship or technical review
• Experience of working as part of a wider EIA team
• Strong working knowledge of UK ecological policy and legislation
• Experience of mitigation design and protected species licensing
• Knowledge of Biodiversity Net Gain
• Experience of Planning Appeals or DCO Examination (desirable)

What we offer:

• Salary reflecting experience and technical seniority
• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays
• Hybrid working
• Life Assurance
• Access to Employee Assistance Program
• Optional health insurance
• Ongoing professional development support
• Training opportunities