About the Role
We are seeking a Senior Ecologist to join our consultancy in Ireland. As a key member of our team, you will lead surveys, mentor early-career colleagues, and deliver high-quality ecological assessments.
This is an exciting opportunity to take the next step in your career, delivering ecological assessments, leading fieldwork across diverse Irish habitats, and contributing to nationally significant environmental projects.
You will have the flexibility to work from one of our core offices in Sligo, Dublin, Galway, or Cork, or remotely/hybrid from elsewhere in Ireland.
Around 50% of your time will involve fieldwork, including travel across Ireland (and occasionally Northern Ireland or the UK), so confidence working in dynamic, outdoor settings is key.
As a Senior Ecologist, you will lead survey programmes, deliver technical reports (e.g., EcIA, AA Screening, NIS, EIAR), manage small to mid-sized projects, and guide junior ecologists.
You will also have opportunities to contribute to tender writing, service development, and cross-disciplinary collaboration with experts across the wider APEM Group.
Key Skills and Qualifications
* A third-level qualification in Ecology, Environmental Science, Zoology, Botany, or a related field
* 3–5+ years of experience in ecological consultancy or similar
* Strong field survey skills and working knowledge of Irish flora and fauna
* Experience producing ecological impact assessments and technical reports aligned with Irish planning law
* A good understanding of Irish and EU legislation (Habitats Directive, Birds Directive, Planning and Development Act)
* Excellent communication skills—both written and verbal
* Ability to manage projects independently, including budgets, schedules, and client relationships
* A full clean EU driving licence and willingness to travel for fieldwork
Bonus Points
* CIEEM Associate Membership (or eligibility), and interest in progressing toward Full Membership or Chartership
* Experience managing field teams and mentoring junior staff
* Familiarity with GIS tools (QGIS, ArcGIS)
* First Aid or remote fieldwork safety training (training can be provided)