Senior Ecologist
Location: Galway, Dublin, Cork, Sligo
We are seeking an experienced Senior Ecologist to join a dynamic Ecology Team working on a diverse portfolio of development and infrastructure projects across Ireland. This is an exciting opportunity for a technically strong ecologist with excellent field survey, assessment, reporting, and project delivery skills to play a key role in shaping sustainable outcomes for clients and communities.
Purpose & Scope of the Role
A Senior Ecologist is a pivotal member of the Ecology Team, responsible for the management, progression, and delivery of ecology advice and assessments for a wide range of development and infrastructure projects in Ireland. Working closely with senior colleagues, the role involves leading ecological survey, desk study, analysis, assessment, and reporting activities across projects from inception through to consenting. The successful candidate will be a competent ecological surveyor with proven experience in habitat mapping and botanical surveys, alongside at least one specialist area of ecological expertise such as bats, freshwater/aquatic ecology, large mammals, or invasive alien plant species. The role also requires confidence in using GIS tools for in‑field data capture and analysis, along with a strong understanding of the relevant Irish and European legislative and planning framework governing ecological assessment and consenting.
Your Impact in This Position
In this role, you will help shape the ecological strategy and delivery of complex projects, ensuring high‑quality advice that supports successful consenting outcomes. You will contribute directly to biodiversity assessments, including EIAR, EcIA, Appropriate Assessment, and WFD‑related work, helping clients navigate ecological constraints and mitigation requirements.
You will also have a meaningful impact through client management, project coordination, fee and scope preparation, and the delivery of technically robust reports and assessments. Your work will support both project success and the broader protection and enhancement of biodiversity.
Core Capabilities
Technical Expertise & Knowledge: Strong technical capability in ecological matters relating to the development, design, and consenting of complex projects. Competent in habitat mapping, botanical surveys, and at least one specialist ecological survey area. Able to apply ecological knowledge to project strategy, assessment, and deliverables.
Reporting, Documentation & Compliance: Produces accurate, clear, and timely reports and technical documentation to a high standard. Maintains strong attention to detail, with a clear understanding of internal procedures, regulatory requirements, and quality, safety, and environmental standards.
Project Management & Client Support: Able to manage multiple projects, prepare scopes and fee proposals, and advise clients on ecological risks and opportunities. Demonstrates a developing professional reputation and contributes to project delivery, financial management, and team collaboration.
GIS, Data Capture & Analysis: Competent in capturing, manipulating, and analysing ecological desk study and field data using GIS tools such as Fieldmaps or similar platforms. Able to support survey planning, analysis, and evidence‑based assessment.
Ecological Assessment & Consenting Support: Experienced in leading ecological assessments for complex projects and applying guidance, legislation, and the mitigation hierarchy to develop practical and effective solutions. Familiar with the consenting process in Ireland and its biodiversity implications.
Qualifications & Experience
Required
Honours Degree in Ecology
Proven experience in ecological consultancy or a related biodiversity role
Strong field survey experience, particularly habitat mapping and botanical surveys
Experience in at least one specialist ecological survey area
Competent use of GIS tools for ecological data capture and analysis
Strong understanding of Irish and European ecology‑related legislation and policy
Experience preparing or contributing to EIAR, EcIA, Appropriate Assessment, and/or WFD assessments
Full clean driving licence and access to own vehicle
Desired
Postgraduate qualification (MSc) in a relevant biological or environmental science subject with an ecological component and practical experience
Membership of CIEEM, or equivalent professional body
Working towards Chartership through CIEEM or similar
Experience managing client relationships and project finances
Experience advising on consenting risk and biodiversity strategy for complex infrastructure or development projects
Demonstrable professional reputation in biodiversity and/or ecological consultancy, experience working with agile teams and across multiple office locations
Working Environment
This role offers agile working with hybrid flexibility as standard. The position may be based from any of the listed office locations, with regular travel required to support fieldwork and project delivery across Ireland. A full clean driving licence and access to your own vehicle are required to fulfil the fieldwork element of the role.
Equality and Diversity
In alignment with the Equality Act 2010, we will make reasonable adjustments to support candidates and employees requiring additional arrangements. This could include adaptations to work schedules, training approaches, or the physical workspace.
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