Ecologist - Orkney

Company Overview

Natural Power Consultants are a leading international renewable energy consultancy. We provide expert services to the renewable energy industry in the development, construction and operational phases of renewable energy projects. We have built a successful ethos for delivering environmentally rewarding projects that allow Clients to reach their economic objectives.

The Opportunity

Natural Power’s Ecology and Hydrology department seeks a highly motivated ecologist with field experience to join our team based in Orkney.  Reporting directly to the Senior Ecologist, you will be responsible for providing ecology services to various clients within the wind, wave & tidal industry.  In this role, you will primarily be responsible for the following duties and responsibilities:

Duties & Responsibilities

• To undertake ornithological fieldwork associated with onshore and offshore wind farm and wave/tidal developments throughout theUK.  Survey work will be associated with schemes that are in the development, construction and post-construction phases;
• Survey work will involve flight-activity surveys, and breeding and wintering bird surveys (including species-specific surveys);
• Survey work will also involve marine mammal surveys;
• Other terrestrial ecological field surveys may include otter, water vole and badger surveys;
• Surveys will be both land-based and boat-based. ESAS and/or MMO accreditation will be advantageous;
• Where required, to assist with technical reports and tender opportunities; and
• Where applicable, to liaise with clients, landowners and statutory consultees throughout the course of the projects.
• Attend regular team meetings and host any required by direct reports
  • Provide regular progress reports for projects and team management as required
  • Deliver and present technical reports to internal and external audiences.
  • Build and maintain positive effective working relationships

Knowledge & Experience

You will have a degree or equivalent in a biological, environmental or ecological discipline, and/or able to demonstrate a sound knowledge in the ecology and identification of a wide range of species both in theUK and internationally (birds, marine mammals, terrestrial mammals).

Ideally you will have specialist knowledge and experience in:

• Understanding of the renewable industry and client requirements
• Ecology surveys, such as onshore & offshore bird surveys, marine mammal surveys, and onshore protected species surveys.
• Writing technical survey reports
• Understanding of the issues surrounding marine ecology for offshore construction projects, and mitigation measures
• Working in ecological / environmental consultancy
• Organising surveys
• UKand European legislation in relation to protected habitats and species
• Planning system in relation to renewable energy
• Project Management skills

Knowledge of any of the following areas would be beneficial:

• Birds
• Marine mammals
• Onshore ecology
• Analysis of ecological data

You will be:

• Highly self-motivated
• Able to prioritise own work load and work to tight deadlines
• Thorough and methodical
• Calm under pressure, versatile and flexible
• Competent in IT (Microsoft Office)
• Able to manage multiple projects
• Able to travel freely

The office

This role will be based in our newest office in Kirkwall, Orkney.

Remuneration

Salary is dependent on experience and background.  We offer generous holidays, membership to our group personal pension scheme, childcare vouchers, a bike to work scheme, Friday barbeques, life assurance, critical illness cover and income protection.  You will be joining a rapidly growing business committed to your career development within Natural Power.

https://www.naturalpower.com/careers-natural-power

Closing date:  6 May 2012