Project Ecologist

ATG are seeking a highly motivated and skilled Project Ecologist to join our growing team in Dublin. This is an exciting opportunity to work on a variety of high-profile and ecologically significant projects across Ireland.

The ideal candidate will have a solid foundation in ecological survey work, ecological impact assessment, and habitat management, with the ability to manage projects independently and contribute to multi-disciplinary teams.

Key Responsibilities:

• Project Management: Lead and coordinate ecological inputs on a range of projects including planning applications, Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA), and Appropriate Assessments (AA).
• Fieldwork & Surveys: Plan and conduct ecological surveys including habitat surveys (e.g., Phase I, Fossitt), protected species surveys (e.g., bats, badgers, birds, amphibians), and ecological monitoring.
• Reporting & Assessment: Prepare high-quality technical reports including Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIA), Natura Impact Statements (NIS), Habitats Directive Screening Reports, and Biodiversity Chapters for EIARs.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Liaise with clients, local authorities, statutory bodies (e.g., NPWS, EPA), and other stakeholders as required.
• GIS & Mapping: Work with GIS specialists or use GIS tools to analyse and present ecological data spatially.
• Team Support: Mentor junior staff, assist with training, and support the broader ecology and environmental planning team.

Requirements Essential:

• Degree in Ecology, Environmental Science, Zoology, Botany, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 3 years’ relevant experience in ecological consultancy or conservation work.
• Strong understanding of Irish and EU environmental legislation, including the Habitats and Birds Directives.
• Proven experience in preparing ecological assessments and reports for planning.
• Proficiency in conducting fieldwork and ecological surveys.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Full clean driving licence (essential for site visits across Ireland).

Desirable:

• Postgraduate qualification in Ecology or a related field.
• Membership of CIEEM or eligibility for membership.
• Protected species licences (e.g., bat licence from NPWS).
• Experience with GIS software (e.g., QGIS, ArcGIS).
• Knowledge of Irish habitats and flora/fauna identification skills.
• Experience with Biodiversity Net Gain or Ecosystem Services assessments.