Senior/Principal Botanist (Avian Ecology)

Avian Ecology is seeking an experienced Senior or Principal Botanist to join our team of skilled professionals, responding to our continuing growth, particularly in the renewables sector.

Over the last decade, Avian has earned a reputation for professional excellence, delivering services to the highest standards on projects of all scales across the UK. Our clients are from both the public and private sectors, and our project portfolio is diverse, challenging, and interesting.

We provide a highly professional and progressive environment while offering the benefits associated with a medium-sized consultancy. We are committed to attracting and retaining the highest calibre of personnel, providing opportunities to flourish in an environment where excellence and progression are encouraged, supported, and rewarded.

We offer a competitive remuneration package in a friendly, dynamic, and flexible working environment with home-working opportunities, and we support and encourage professional development and training.

Avian Ecology has offices in Lower Stretton (near Warrington) and Falkirk in Scotland. The successful candidate may work from either office or from home (with prior agreement).

The Role
As a Senior or Principal Botanist, you will lead botanical surveys, contribute specialist botanical expertise, and work as part of larger multidisciplinary project teams. Work will focus on renewable energy schemes and other infrastructure or development projects, with an emphasis on habitat and vegetation assessments, including National Vegetation Classification (NVC) surveys.

Key responsibilities include:

Leading botanical surveys and delivering high-quality outputs, including habitat classifications and assessments (e.g., NVC, Biodiversity Net Gain).

Providing clear and robust technical reports, including Habitat Management Plans and contributions to Ecological Impact Assessments.

Offering expert botanical advice to clients and colleagues, ensuring projects meet ecological requirements and legislative standards.

Liaising with planning authorities, statutory agencies, and stakeholders to secure successful project outcomes.

Managing and mentoring junior staff and coordinating sub-consultants as needed.

Key Requirements

Strong experience in botanical fieldwork, including habitat and vegetation surveys such as NVC, with an in-depth knowledge of UK flora.

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

Demonstrable experience in preparing clear, robust, and high-quality technical reports.

Proven ability to provide expert advice to clients and consult with regulators and stakeholders.

Excellent communication, project management, and organisational skills.

Previous consultancy experience is required, including managing projects and supervising junior staff.

A relevant degree, full membership of CIEEM, and a full, clean UK driving licence are essential.

Desirable

Experience with Biodiversity Net Gain assessments and delivering Habitat Management Plans.

Familiarity with Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for mapping and data analysis.

A specialism in wetland, upland, or coastal habitats.

This is a full-time permanent role. Salary will be competitive and dependent on experience.

As with all our team members, the successful candidate will be diligent, passionate, professional, and enthusiastic, with a flexible approach to working.

If you feel you have the experience and enthusiasm to work as part of our team, please submit your application.