Ornithological Consultant Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In an era of heightened environmental awareness, the role of ornithological consultants has never been more significant.

As our understanding of avian species and their habitats advances, there is an increasing demand for knowledgeable professionals who can study, protect and manage these complex ecosystems.

But what does an ornithological consultant truly do?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the intricacies of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the field of ornithology,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a comprehensive ornithological consultant job description template, crafted for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Ornithological Consultant Duties and Responsibilities

Ornithological Consultants are specialists in the study of birds, often employed to provide expert knowledge and advice relating to avian species in various contexts such as environmental impact assessments, conservation efforts, and research projects.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Carrying out field surveys to identify and record avian species present in a specific area
• Analyzing bird populations, breeding habits, migration patterns, and habitats
• Providing expert advice on the potential impacts of development projects on bird species and habitats
• Developing and implementing mitigation strategies to minimize impacts on birds and their habitats
• Producing detailed reports and presenting findings to clients, regulatory bodies, or the public
• Working with conservationists, ecologists, and other professionals to ensure bird protection and habitat conservation
• Conducting research to contribute to the scientific understanding of bird species and their habitats
• Providing training and guidance to junior staff or volunteers
• Keeping up to date with latest ornithological research and conservation strategies

 

Ornithological Consultant Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a knowledgeable Ornithological Consultant to join our team.

Your primary role will be to provide expert advice on bird species, their habitats, and behaviors, as well as conducting field studies and compiling research reports.

The successful candidate will have a solid understanding of avian ecology, experience conducting ornithological surveys, and a passion for conservation.

This is a fantastic opportunity for a highly skilled ornithologist looking to contribute to environmental sustainability and wildlife conservation.

 

Responsibilities

• Conduct field surveys to identify and record bird species
• Analyze bird habitats and assess the impacts of various environmental factors
• Provide expert advice on bird conservation strategies
• Prepare and present ornithological reports and findings
• Collaborate with other environmental scientists and stakeholders
• Support the development and implementation of bird management plans
• Contribute to educational programs and public awareness initiatives
• Stay updated with recent ornithological research and developments
• Comply with environmental regulations and guidelines

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as an Ornithologist or similar role
• Strong knowledge of avian ecology and conservation
• Experience conducting field studies and surveys
• Familiarity with GIS software and statistical analysis
• Excellent observation and data recording skills
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• PhD or Master’s degree in Ornithology, Wildlife Biology, or related field is preferred

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Ornithological Consultant
• Work Environment: This role involves both office work and field work in a variety of weather conditions. Some travel may be required for field surveys and meetings.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Senior Ornithologist or Project Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $55,000 minimum to $85,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Ornithological Consultant Do?

An Ornithological Consultant is a specialized professional who focuses on the study and conservation of birds.

They typically work for environmental consultancies, governmental wildlife agencies, conservation charities or as self-employed individuals.

Their primary role is to conduct detailed field studies and surveys of bird populations, their habitat, and behavior.

This could involve the use of bird-watching equipment, GPS trackers, and complex data management systems to record and analyze their findings.

They provide strategic advice and recommendations based on their findings to aid conservation efforts, urban planning, wind farm projects, and other developments that may impact bird populations or habitats.

Ornithological Consultants may also be called upon to prepare and present reports, including Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) and Habitats Regulations Assessments (HRAs), to relevant stakeholders, such as project developers, local communities, and governmental agencies.

They work closely with other wildlife professionals, conservationists, and environmental agencies to develop and implement strategies for protecting and enhancing bird populations and habitats.

In addition, they may be involved in public outreach and education efforts to raise awareness about bird conservation and promote responsible behaviors towards the environment and wildlife.

 

Ornithological Consultant Qualifications and Skills

An Ornithological Consultant is required to have a unique blend of professional experience, academic knowledge, and practical skills to conduct bird-related research and consulting.

These include:

• Advanced knowledge in ornithology, ecology, or related fields. This often includes a degree in biological sciences or a related field with a focus on avian species.
• Field skills to identify bird species accurately by sight and sound. This should include familiarity with a wide variety of bird species, their behaviors, habitats, and life cycles.
• Strong analytical and research skills to conduct field studies, compile and analyze data, and write detailed reports.
• Proficiency in using various research and tracking tools, like binoculars, scopes, nets, and bird banding equipment. Familiarity with software used for data analysis and GIS may also be required.
• Excellent communication skills to present findings to clients, participate in public hearings, and collaborate with other scientists or stakeholders.
• Physical fitness and endurance for conducting fieldwork, which may involve long hours outdoors in various weather conditions, possibly in remote locations.
• Knowledge of bird-related laws and regulations, such as the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, Endangered Species Act, and other relevant legislation.
• Proven experience in environmental impact assessment, conservation planning, and habitat restoration could be advantageous for this role.

 

Ornithological Consultant Experience Requirements

Those interested in becoming an Ornithological Consultant often start their journey through a bachelor’s degree in ornithology, wildlife biology, ecology, or a related field, which provides them with a foundational understanding of bird species, their behaviors, habitats, and conservation issues.

Internships or volunteer work with wildlife agencies, bird observatories, conservation organizations, or related entities are typically the first steps to gaining hands-on experience in the field.

This could involve bird banding, surveys, habitat assessment, and other field research methods.

After graduation, entry-level roles such as Field Biologist, Research Assistant, or Wildlife Technician can provide additional practical experience, usually requiring 1 to 2 years in the role.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience have often held roles such as Ornithologist, Wildlife Biologist, or Ecologist and have developed a deeper understanding of bird ecology, conservation strategies, and have likely been involved in comprehensive field studies.

Those with more than 5 years of experience have often managed or coordinated research projects, giving them substantial experience in project management, data analysis, and reporting.

They are typically ready for consultancy roles, which require a high level of expertise and experience in advising on issues related to bird conservation, impact assessments, and habitat management.

Advanced degrees in ornithology or a related field, and publications in peer-reviewed journals are a plus, further cementing the individual’s expertise in the field.

 

Ornithological Consultant Education and Training Requirements

To become an Ornithological Consultant, a bachelor’s degree in biology, ecology, wildlife biology, zoology, or a related field is typically required.

These programs include courses on animal behavior, conservation biology, ecology, and environmental science, all of which provide a strong foundation for a career in ornithology.

Many consultants go on to earn a master’s degree or a doctorate in ornithology or a closely related field.

These advanced degrees typically involve significant research and fieldwork, allowing students to gain a deeper understanding of bird species and their behaviors, habitats, and conservation needs.

In addition to formal education, experience with bird identification, bird banding, wildlife habitat assessment, and similar fieldwork is highly beneficial.

Many ornithologists gain this experience through internships, volunteering, or working with conservation organizations or government agencies.

Certain professional certifications, such as the Certified Wildlife Biologist credential offered by The Wildlife Society, can also be beneficial.

These certifications demonstrate a high level of knowledge and competence in the field and can enhance job prospects.

Lastly, as this role often involves advising on conservation policies and strategies, strong communication and interpersonal skills are necessary.

These can be developed through a variety of avenues, including through coursework, internships, or on-the-job experience.

 

Ornithological Consultant Salary Expectations

An Ornithological Consultant earns an average salary of $62,290 (USD) per year.

However, the salary can vary based on factors such as level of expertise, years of experience in the field, location, and the hiring organization.

 

Ornithological Consultant Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Ornithological Consultant need?

An Ornithological Consultant should have excellent knowledge about birds including their behavior, habitat, and conservation needs.

They should have skills in field research, data analysis, and report writing.

Good communication and interpersonal skills are also necessary as they often need to present their findings to clients or other stakeholders.

 

Do Ornithological Consultants need a degree?

Yes, an Ornithological Consultant typically needs a degree in a related field such as ornithology, wildlife biology, environmental science, or ecology.

Higher qualifications, like a Master’s degree or PhD, can be beneficial and may make a candidate more competitive.

Practical fieldwork experience, whether gained during studies or afterwards, is also highly valuable.

 

What should you look for in an Ornithological Consultant resume?

A strong Ornithological Consultant resume should demonstrate a good blend of academic qualifications and practical field experience.

Look for evidence of bird-related research projects, survey and monitoring experience, and a demonstrated knowledge of bird ecology.

Any additional skills, such as GIS, statistical analysis, or bird ringing/banding qualifications, are also advantageous.

 

What qualities make a good Ornithological Consultant?

A good Ornithological Consultant has a passion for birds and conservation, strong analytical skills, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team.

They should be detail-oriented, able to conduct fieldwork in various weather conditions, and capable of accurately identifying different bird species.

Good problem-solving skills are also important as they often need to develop and implement strategies to address conservation issues.

 

Is it difficult to hire an Ornithological Consultant?

Hiring an Ornithological Consultant can be challenging due to the niche nature of the role and the specific set of skills required.

However, there are many passionate and qualified individuals in this field.

To attract the best candidates, you can offer opportunities for fieldwork, participation in important conservation projects, and a supportive work environment that encourages continuous learning.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve given you an exclusive peek into the life of an ornithological consultant.

Surprised?

It’s not just about observing birds.

It’s about shaping our understanding of avian ecology, one species at a time.

Armed with our comprehensive ornithological consultant job description template and real-world examples, you’re fully prepared to flap your wings.

But why just fly when you can soar?

Dive further with our job description generator. It’s your go-to resource for creating detailed job listings or honing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every bird species is a part of a larger ecosystem.

Let’s explore this avian world. Together.

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