Marine Ornithology Adviser

Grade: D
Hours: 35 (full-time)
Vacancy type: Temporary
Location: All NatureScot offices/ homeworking considered
Closing Date: Midday 21 August
Internal Interview: 3 September 2024
External Interview: 5/6 September 2024

/ / / temporary until with possibility of extension temporary until with possibility of extension

Job Purpose Summary:

NatureScot are looking for several marine ornithology advisers to work in either NatureScot's marine teams - Marine Ecosystems or Sustainable Coasts and Seas.

These posts will provide technical support and advice on marine bird interactions with various industries including offshore wind proposals with leases awarded through ScotWind, demonstrator sites, the decarbonisation of oil and gas platforms through INTOG, and associated cable infrastructure. There is also a growing need to provide advice in relation ports and harbours and wet storage. Advice is also required for non-marine energy developments such as aquaculture, seaweed harvesting and fisheries.

Marine Ornithologists also lead on work to identify and prioritise specific site-based and wider seas conservation measures (including relating to Marine Protected Areas and Priority Marine Features) focusing on those that provide the greatest benefits to seabirds in terms of biodiversity gain, enhancing climate change resilience /adaptation and responding to impacts of avian influenza (HPAI), and commissioning research to provide evidence to inform policy changes.

Any successful post holder is expected to be a highly motivated and knowledgeable ornithologist with a good understanding of Scotland's marine environment, policy and legislation relating to its sustainable use and management. They should have experience of working with a wide range of stakeholders and be able to demonstrate strong project management and team working skills. They will work closely with NatureScot marine and terrestrial ornithologists, other specialists, caseworkers and external organisations to deliver our marine bird work. Successful candidates will also be expected to contribute to the wider work of each Activity, inputting to media, awareness raising and training initiatives as relevant.

These roles offer an opportunity to gain a wide variety of experience across multiple streams of marine ornithology. A detailed job plan for the role will be developed once candidates are appointed, but may include the following work areas:

Apply here