Head of Ecology (Avian Ecology)

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 Ecology 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. 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 Lower Stretton 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) 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. #growwithus