Job Description

Principal Orthinologist

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Date: 11 Nov 2025
Location:
Southampton, Other Operations, GB
Company: ABPmer
We're the UK's largest ports operator with a network of 21 ports around Britain. We handle around one quarter of the UK's seaborne trade and contribute 7.5 billion to our economy every year.


It's a story we're proud of but it doesn't end there. We're transforming our business and embracing the future.


We offer a vast range of roles spanning the UK, all rooted in a culture that welcomes diversity, fosters talent, encourages internal movement and progression, and places safety as our number one priority.





Principal Marine and Coastal Ornithologist



Type: Permanent, full time

Closing date: 28th November 2025

Location: Southampton / hybrid working


Do you want to work for a company that supports sustainable development in the marine environment?


Are you self-motivated, ready to work both independently and as part of a team?


Are you keen to expand your knowledge and experience delivering projects at the coast and offshore?



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 ABPmer?

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 work, allowing you to apply your expertise to an array of interesting projects and locations

Our flexibility:

We understand the importance of good work-life balance, offering flexible arrangements as standard, including hybrid working

Your career development:

We operate a programme of continuous professional development supported by tailored, formal and on-the-job training and mentoring

Your benefits:

Working for us means 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:

We continue to grow to meet the high demand for our bespoke services. Join us as we continue our exciting journey

Additional Information:

When joining ABP you will find an environment that is both welcoming and challenging. We reward our employees well and offer a generous remuneration package, employer pension, private health insurance and a range of other benefits.


Please note that ABP undertake random screening for substance abuse and operate a zero-tolerance policy. A medical will be required before starting this position also.


We are an equal opportunities employer and we welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of their background, which helps us to provide a diverse and inclusive working environment.


As part of our recruitment process, all successful candidates will be subject to pre-employment screening to Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS). Please note your consent will be required and further information on this check can be found using the following link: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/united-kingdom-security-vetting-clearance-levels/national-security-vetting-clearance-levels