Principal Ornithologist

Salary: Commensurate with experience + benefit package

(Your experience/skills will determine where on a scale you start and no assumption of starting on the bottom rung should be made)

Location: Cardiff, Chester or Dorset

APEM Limited is Europe’s largest specialist aquatic science consultancy, offering our clients an integrated approach to every aspect of the scientific study and management of freshwater and marine habitats.  APEM’s Remote Sensing Division is a rapidly expanding part of the business and is responsible for all aspects of the company’s aerial survey programme, including offshore bird surveys.  One of the main roles of the team is to organise, undertake and analyse aerial surveys of birds – particularly offshore. Coupled with this is the need for expert advice and interpretation, including EIA and HRA.

As APEM’s Remote Sensing Division continues to expand, we are seeking an experienced and motivated Ornithologist to join our multidisciplinary teams of aquatic specialists based at our offices in Cardiff or Chester or Dorset. Reporting into the Associate Director, and working closely with them and the existing ornithology team, your work will involve a variety of tasks, including leading projects and people management.

The successful candidate will have an excellent knowledge of avian ecology and behaviour, being recognised in the field as a leading expert. They will also be experienced in regularly advising clients and other stakeholders on ornithology issues.  Established expertise in either; Environmental Impact Assessments, Strategic Environmental Assessments and Habitats Regulations Assessments, or data handling, statistical analysis and GIS skills is essential. It is expected that you will also have an outstanding academic and/or professional record.

For the role you would typically have either a PhD and seven years relevant consultancy experience or an MSc and nine years relevant consultancy experience.  However, relevant industry experience is also important.  You should be recognised by key individuals in your field and have a track record of dealing with corporate sector clients at the highest level, including the provision of expert biological advice. Excellent report writing and communication skills are essential and therefore a proven record in reviewing and delivering reports to deadlines and/or publishing in scientific literature is required.

You will be required to lead project teams drawn from our national office locations. A proven ability to lead from the front, organise efficient work schedules for yourself and for others, to meet tight deadlines and to oversee the delivery of projects within budget will be essential for achieving success in this role. Business development experience would be a distinct advantage.

The role will be primarily office-based, although client meetings will be required and therefore flexibility and a full driving licence is therefore essential.

If you think you have what it takes, click the online application form.  Completed application forms should be emailed together with a covering letter and an up-to-date copy of your CV to recruitment@apemltd.co.uk by 13th February 2012.

Please state ‘Principal Ornithologist application’ as the subject heading of the e-mail and ensure you have included all documentation as requested above.

For more information on the role please contact APEM Ltd on 0161 442 8938.