Job Title: Senior Ecologist/Principal Ecologist
Location: Ireland (nationwide, with flexible/hybrid options depending on office location)
Job Type: Full-time, Permanent
Overview:
We are seeking experienced and driven Senior and Principal Ecologists to join our growing clients in Ireland. These roles are ideal for motivated professionals looking to contribute to a wide range of ecological projects, from early-stage site assessments to large-scale Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) and planning applications. You will play a key role in delivering high-quality ecological services in line with Irish legislation and international best practices.
Key Responsibilities:
For Both Roles:
* Lead and support ecological surveys and fieldwork across a range of habitats and species.
* Prepare and review high-quality ecological reports, including Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIA), Natura Impact Statements (NIS), and Biodiversity Chapters for EIAs.
* Provide technical input and advice to project teams, clients, and stakeholders.
* Ensure compliance with Irish and EU environmental legislation and planning policies.
* Liaise with statutory bodies, local authorities, and other stakeholders as required.
* Contribute to and support project management, including timelines, budgets, and quality control.
* Maintain up-to-date knowledge of ecological guidance, best practice, and relevant legislation.
Senior Ecologist (3–5 years’ experience):
* Take a lead role on small to medium-sized projects.
* Mentor junior staff and assist with training and development.
* Coordinate and deliver fieldwork and baseline assessments.
Principal Ecologist (5–7+ years’ experience):
* Lead complex and large-scale ecological projects from concept to delivery.
* Provide strategic ecological input at the project and company level.
* Oversee quality assurance and support business development and client relationships.
* Support regulatory submissions and act as lead ecologist in multi-disciplinary teams.
Required Qualifications and Experience:
* BSc (minimum) in Ecology, Environmental Science, Zoology, Botany, Natural Sciences, or a related discipline. Postgraduate qualifications are desirable.
* Senior Ecologist: Minimum of 3–5 years' relevant professional experience.
* Principal Ecologist: Minimum of 5–7 years' relevant professional experience.
* Demonstrated expertise in Irish ecological legislation, planning processes, and regulatory frameworks.
* Strong report writing skills, with proven experience in producing technical documents for planning and environmental assessments.
* Proficiency in a range of field survey techniques, with a particular focus on protected species and habitats in Ireland.
* Comprehensive knowledge of the EIA process and ecological reporting for planning applications.
* Full clean Irish or EU driving licence.
* Membership of a relevant professional body (e.g., CIEEM) is an advantage.
Desirable Skills:
* GIS and mapping skills.
* Experience with stakeholder engagement.
* Project management and team leadership skills.
* Specialism in a protected species, habitat type, or ecological methodology.
Benefits:
* Competitive salary, based on experience and qualifications
* Flexible and hybrid working arrangements, including home working options
* Private medical and health insurance
* Pension scheme with employer contributions
* Career development opportunities through mentoring, training, and CPD
* Annual performance and salary reviews
* Comprehensive annual leave
* Paid professional memberships and training support
* Employee wellbeing programme, including mental health support
* Opportunities to work on high-profile and nationally significant projects
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