Ecological Clerk Of Works (Ornithology)

Ecological Clerk of Works (Ornithology)

Here at SES, part of the RSK Group, we are looking for an Ecological Clerk of Works (Ornithology) who will provide specialist ornithological advice and on-site ecological supervision during construction, vegetation clearance and other potentially disturbing activities.

You will focus on undertaking nesting bird checks, identifying birds by sight and sound, assessing the potential effects of works on breeding, passage and wintering birds, and ensuring that project activities are carried out in accordance with approved ecological documentation, planning conditions, licences where applicable, and relevant wildlife legislation.

Main Responsibilities

• Undertake pre-works nesting bird checks of vegetation, buildings, structures, ground habitats and other suitable nesting features.
• Identify bird species accurately by sight, call, song, behaviour, flight pattern and field signs.
• Assess whether birds are actively nesting and determine the likely location, status and sensitivity of nests.
• Recognise breeding behaviour, including territorial activity, nest building, incubation, feeding of young, alarm calling and recently fledged young.
• Recognise passage and wintering behaviours of birds utilising the site and knowledge of nearby designated sites and designated species.
• Establish appropriate exclusion or protection zones around active nests, based on species, site conditions, proposed works and anticipated disturbance.
• Monitor active nests and protection zones to determine whether mitigation remains appropriate and effective.
• Advise when works may proceed, when additional controls are required, or when activities must be delayed or stopped.
• Identify situations requiring escalation to the Project Ecologist, Ecology Manager or other relevant specialist.