Job Description & Person Specification
Job Title: Project Coordinator
Duration: 1 year, full time
Probationary Period: 3 months
Salary: [To be defined based on experience and budget]
Hours: 8am – 4pm
Reporting to: Board of Cairde na hEaragaile CLG
Location: Dunlewey, Co. Donegal
Start Date: November 2025
Background:
Cairde na hEaragaile CLG are a not-for-profit organisation whose vision is to "To facilitate the responsible enjoyment of Errigal in a way that protects its special qualities and benefits the local community".
The Project
Cairde na hEaragaile CLG is working with the LIFE IP Wild Atlantic Nature (WAN) and others in this community- led project which aims to extend the current rhododendron control programme within the Cloghernagore Bog and Glenveagh National Park SAC, Fawnbog Bog/Lough Nacung SAC and to targeted areas within the Dunlewey and Errigal area. It also seeks to expand local capacity to implement other peatland restoration actions and path maintenance on Errigal.
About the Role
Cairde na hEaragaile is seeking a dynamic and committed Project Coordinator to lead the day-to-day implementation of a multi-faceted environmental project. The project focuses on invasive species control, peatland restoration, community engagement, mapping, and sustainable upland access across the Errigal & Dunlewey region in Donegal.
The successful candidate will work at the intersection of conservation delivery, community engagement, and project management, coordinating a team of field staff, liaising with multiple stakeholders, and ensuring that all outputs are delivered on time, on budget, and to a high environmental standard.
Key Responsibilities
Project Management
* · Develop and implement a detailed project work plan, aligned with contractual outputs and timelines.
* · Monitor and manage day-to-day activities across all project tasks (control, restoration, mapping, training, path maintenance, reporting).
* · Manage project resources, including budget tracking and procurement processes.
* · Manage a team of five field operators in conjunction with the field supervisor.
* · Coordinate risk assessment and mitigation across all aspects of delivery.
* · Prepare monthly and interim progress reports for submission to LIFE IP Wild Atlantic Nature, NPWS, and internal oversight.
Stakeholder Liaison and Communications
* · Serve as the key point of contact between Cairde na hEaragaile and external partners, including: NPWS, LIFE IP Wild Atlantic Nature staff, Donegal County Council, landowners, local community groups, and academic advisors.
* · Organise and facilitate stakeholder meetings, site visits, and consultation workshops.
* · Build trust with local residents and landowners, supporting land access agreements and ongoing engagement.
Team Coordination and Oversight
* · Supervise and support the field team undertaking Rhododendron control, mapping, and restoration works.
* · Coordinate training schedules and ensure the field operators are certified, briefed, and equipped.
* · Promote a strong safety culture, ensure compliance with pesticide, habitat, and access regulations.
Data Management and Reporting
* · Oversee the collection and quality control of field data (GIS, photographs, survey notes, etc.).
* · Maintain clear records for audit, compliance, and knowledge-sharing purposes.
* · Contribute to the preparation of the final report and technical deliverables.
Essential Qualifications and Experience
* · Project coordination or management experience, preferably in the environmental or rural development sectors.
* · Experience working in an outdoor environment and in variable weather conditions.
* · Demonstrated ability to manage complex, multi-stakeholder projects.
* · Strong written and verbal communication skills, with experience in stakeholder engagement.
* · Proven ability to work independently, meet deadlines, and problem-solve in real time.
* · Familiarity with environmental policy, Natura 2000 site management, or invasive species control.
* · Familiarity with Health & Safety regulations and procedures. Ability to follow safety protocols and standard operating procedures.
* · Familiarity with Human Resource and Employment regulations and requirements
* · Ability to access treatment sites on foot across uneven/outdoor upland terrain, carrying necessary equipment. Reasonable accommodations will be considered in line with the Employment Equality Acts 1998–2015
* · A full clean driving licence and access to a vehicle.
* · Valid permission to work in Ireland
Desirable
* · A degree in environmental science, ecology, project management, community development, or a related field.
* · Knowledge of the Errigal area, Donegal uplands, or local stakeholder landscape.
* · Experience working with EU-funded or public conservation projects.
* · GIS and data management experience.
* · Fluency in English is required and written and conversational Irish language skills is desirable.
Working Conditions
1. Salary: Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience.
2. Duration of Contract: This is a full-time fixed-term contract for 12-months subject to probation and satisfactory performance.
3. Probation: Probation period of three months will apply.
4. Working Hours (35 hours per week)
Monday to Friday 8am – 4pm. The post will involve some out-of-hours meetings, and the company operates a Time Off In Lieu (TOIL) policy for this work.
5. Annual Leave: For new staff appointments, annual leave is 25 days per annum.
6. Travel & Subsistence: Travel and subsistence will be paid at public sector rates.
7. Location of the position
Office location: Ionad Pobail Dhún Lúiche, Dunlewey, Co. Donegal. Combination of office and field work in variable weather and upland conditions.
8. Own Transport: A full driving license and access to own transport is essential.
How to Apply
Please submit your CV and a cover letter clearly outlining how you meet the requirements for the role to
· Include Project Co-Ordinator_Application_YOURNAME in the subject line.
· Please save your CV as YOURNAME_CV and your cover letter as YOURNAME_CoverLetter.
Closing Date for applications: 6th October 2025
Selection will involve short listing of applicants for interview based on the criteria for the position as outlined in this job description and person specification.
Proposed Interview date: Week beginning 13th October 2025
IMPORTANT: Please check your junk and spam folders throughout this recruitment campaign. Cairde na hEaragaile does not accept any responsibility for missed communication during this recruitment campaign.
We are committed to Equality of Opportunity. Please contact us if you require any access to accommodations. Canvassing will disqualify.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: €37,000.00-€60,000.00 per year
Work Location: In person