Company Overview: Our clients are reputable ecological consultancies, and are currently seeking a passionate Ecologist at all levels of experience – from Juniors to Principals – to join their growing Ecology Team. These organizations are specialists in ecological projects and studies, working on nationally and internationally recognized initiatives. They offer a competitive salary and the flexibility of hybrid working, with opportunities available at multiple sites across Ireland.
About the teams: The Ecology Teams are composed of qualified and enthusiastic staff who handle a diverse range of projects for private and public sector clients. They have well-established nationwide client relationships and collaborate internally and externally.
Core Competency: The successful candidate must possess strong leadership and teamwork skills for field data collection and preparation of Biodiversity/Ornithological sections in Environmental Impact Assessment Reports (EIARs), Ecological Impact Assessment reports, and Habitats Directive Appropriate Assessment reporting. Experience in ecological surveys, including bird and protected species surveys in Ireland or the UK, habitat analysis, data interpretation, and impact assessments are essential. Knowledge and project experience across various ecological disciplines are also necessary.
Responsibilities:
Lead and collaborate with our existing Ecology team on national infrastructure, renewable energy, and private/commercial projects.
Provide expert ecological input for desktop studies, advantage point surveys, scoping studies, site selection, Ecological Impact Assessments, and Habitats Directive Appropriate Assessment Reports.
Oversee and conduct comprehensive ecological field surveys, including bird, bat, and protected species surveys, and accurately interpret and analyze
survey data.
Prepare high-quality reports, including Ecological Impact Assessment (EcIA) chapters, Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (PEA), and biodiversity sections for Environmental Impact Assessment Reports (EIAR).
Manage and coordinate ecology surveys, liaison with sub-consultants, and ensure timely delivery of project milestones.
Utilize GIS tools for data analysis and mapping, facilitating effective decision-making and impact assessment.
Engage with clients and stakeholders to present ecological findings and provide expert advice during project development.
Act as an expert witness at Oral Hearings, if required.
Contribute to project management tasks, including program and financial management, and actively participate in tender submissions.
Qualifications/Experience Required:
Relevant primary degree (Hons.) in Ecology/Environmental Biology (additional qualifications preferred).
Proven track record in ecological work, including bird and protected species surveys, with at least 5 years of post-graduate experience.
Demonstrated ecological field skills, including expertise in species identification of local birds and bats.
Experience in drafting EIAR chapters, AA Screening, and NIS Reports.
Proficiency in GIS software (e.g., ArcView, QGIS) is desirable.
Preferred membership in CIEEM (or ambition to become a member).
Experience coordinating ecological impact assessments, project management, and engaging with clients and stakeholders.
Excellent report writing and communication skills.
Physical fitness and willingness to undertake fieldwork as required.
Full driving license and ability to travel to survey sites across Ireland.
All applicants must be legally allowed to work in Ireland and possess a visa allowing them to do so.
Benefits:
Competitive salaries according to experience (Junior from Principal);
Annual medical benefit;
Contributory pension;
Bonus scheme;
Professional membership paid;
Early finish Friday;
22 – 27 annual leave days;
Hybrid working;
Employee experience benefits;
Family benefits;
Well-being benefits;
How to Apply:
If you are excited about this opportunity and meet the essential requirements, please apply through Gaia’s website or reach out directly to Isadora at [email protected].
We look forward to hearing from you and invite you to be a part of our mission to create a better and sustainable world!