Kittiwake in flight Kittiwake in flight

Principal Marine and Coastal Ornithologist

Vacancy

Kathryn Wildman ABPmer

Type: Permanent, full time
Closing date: 31 March 2025
Location: Southampton / hybrid working

About us

We are ABPmer, a marine consultancy and survey company that specialises in understanding one of the most complex environments on earth.

We are involved in all marine and coastal sectors, from ports to offshore wind, flood risk management to marine habitat creation and restoration. Our technical teams work across industry for all kinds of clients, supporting developers, government and its regulators, statutory nature conservation bodies and non-governmental organisations, with a diverse portfolio of projects and services; no two projects or days are the same.

Known for our technical ability, professionalism, and service excellence, we have been helping clients sustainably manage, operate and develop in the marine environment for 75 years. Our quality of service and customer care is due to our staff and our culture. We offer an environment focused on collaboration, continuous learning and career progression.

Discover more about us.

About the role

We are looking for a principal marine and coastal ornithologist to join our expanding team. Our growing portfolio means you will be working with marine ecologists, oceanographers, surveyors and environmental scientists to deliver a wide range of exciting projects. These typically involve the technical assessments, developing mitigation measures and identification of enhancement opportunities to underpin development proposals as well as informing emerging marine policy. 

Objectives

You will help our clients achieve their goals as they develop, manage and operate in the marine environment. This will involve contributing to environmental assessments, marine policy and planning studies, and a wide range of research projects that support sustainable development of the marine environment. 

Your area of focus will be in ornithology with a wider appreciation of marine ecology, as well as an understanding of maritime sectors and activities.

Responsibilities

You will contribute to a range of different projects, and responsibilities may include:

  • Researching environmental literature and writing evidence reviews
  • Analysing and interpreting data
  • Delivering environmental assessments
  • Assisting with field surveys
  • Contributing to a wide range of project deliverables, including reports and presentation and representations at public hearings
  • Project management and client engagement

About you

You have:

  • A degree or postgraduate degree in a relevant environmental discipline, including a good understanding of the marine environment
  • At least five years’ relevant ornithology experience, preferably within a consultancy or regulatory setting

You have skills and experience in:

  • Ornithology including species identification, distribution and behaviours
  • Marine environmental assessments, policy and planning
  • Evidence reviews, research and assessments
  • Data analysis and mapping
  • Stakeholder engagement
  • Report writing and presentations

Why join us?

  • Our people: We are a friendly, welcoming team focussed on collaborative working. Our culture means you are encouraged to chart your own course to excellence
  • Our projects: We deliver a diverse portfolio of projects allowing you to apply your expertise to an array of interesting projects and locations
  • Our flexibility: We understand the importance of a good work-life balance offering flexible arrangements as standard including hybrid-working
  • Your career development: We offer a programme of continuous professional development supported by tailored, formal and on-the-job training and mentoring
  • Your benefits: As part of Associated British Ports Group you benefit from a contribution-matched pension plan, private medical and dental insurance as well as paid professional subscription, and a range of discount schemes
  • Our team is growing: With the Net Zero revolution we continue to grow to meet the high demand for our bespoke services. Join us as we continue our exciting journey

Applications

ABPmer is part of the Associated British Ports Group; please apply via the link below, which will take you to the ABP website:

Apply →

Header photo courtesy Andrew Pearson