Senior Ecologist

An established environmental and engineering consultancy is seeking an experienced Senior Ecologist to join their growing team in Cork.

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced ecologist to work on a diverse portfolio of projects across Ireland, providing ecological expertise throughout the planning, assessment and delivery stages of major developments and infrastructure schemes.

The successful candidate will take a leading role in ecological assessments and fieldwork, while also supporting junior ecologists and working closely with multidisciplinary engineering and environmental teams.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead ecological surveys and field assessments across a range of habitats and species.
• Prepare and review ecological reports, technical assessments and supporting documentation.
• Undertake Appropriate Assessment (AA) and Natura Impact Statement (NIS) work.
• Contribute to Environmental Impact Assessment Reports (EIARs).
• Provide ecological input to planning applications and environmental assessments.
• Manage ecological aspects of projects from initial survey through to delivery.
• Liaise with clients, planning authorities, statutory bodies and project stakeholders.
• Provide ecological advice to multidisciplinary project teams.
• Coordinate and mentor junior and graduate ecologists.
• Manage survey programmes, budgets and project deliverables.
• Undertake site visits and ecological monitoring.
• Support the preparation of tenders and technical proposals.
• Contribute to business development and the growth of the ecology team.

Project Experience

The successful candidate will have the opportunity to work across a varied portfolio, potentially including:

• Renewable energy projects
• Roads and transport infrastructure
• Residential and commercial developments
• Water and wastewater infrastructure
• Large-scale infrastructure projects
• Habitat management and restoration
• Linear infrastructure
• Coastal and marine projects
• Quarrying and extractive industries

Requirements

• Degree in Ecology, Environmental Science, Zoology, Botany or a related discipline.
• 5+ years' relevant ecological consultancy experience.
• Strong experience undertaking ecological field surveys.
• Proven experience preparing ecological reports and assessments.
• Strong knowledge of Irish wildlife and habitats.
• Experience with AA/NIS and EIAR processes.
• Understanding of Irish environmental legislation and planning requirements.
• Excellent technical report-writing skills.
• Strong communication and stakeholder-management skills.
• Full driving licence and willingness to travel for fieldwork.
• Ability to manage projects and mentor junior team members.