We are currently seeking a Senior Ornithologist to join our growing Ecology Team within the Environment & Planning Division. This is an exciting opportunity to work on nationally recognized projects and studies. We offer a competitive salary and the flexibility of hybrid working, with office locations in Galway, Dublin, Limerick, Castlebar, or Sligo.
The team is composed of qualified and enthusiastic staff who handle a diverse project load for private and public sector clients. They have well-established nationwide client relationships and collaborate internally with other Engineering Divisions within our organization.
Core Competency:
The successful candidate must possess strong teamwork and leadership 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 designing and implementing ecological surveys, including bird and protected species surveys, habitat analysis, data interpretation, and impact assessments is required. Knowledge and project experience in various ecological disciplines are also necessary.
Duties and Responsibilities:
As a Senior Ornithologist, you will work with our existing Ecology team on ecological and environmental aspects of diverse projects, including national infrastructure, renewable energy, and private/commercial ventures. Responsibilities include providing ecological input for desktop studies, advantage point surveys, scoping studies, site selection, Ecological Impact Assessments, and Appropriate Assessment Reports. The role also involves project management tasks such as program and financial management and contributing to tender submissions.
Qualifications/Experience Required:
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Relevant primary degree (Hons.) in Ecology/Environmental Biology (additional qualifications preferred)
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Proven track record in ecological/ornithological work
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Proficiency in ecological/ornithological field skills
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Experience with GIS systems (e.g., ArcView) is desirable, but not essential, as we have specialist GIS services in-house
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Preferred membership in CIEEM (or ambition to become a member)
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Experience coordinating ecological impact assessments, project management, and engaging with clients and stakeholders
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Preferred experience as an expert witness at Oral Hearings (not essential)
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Excellent report writing and communication skills
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Physical fitness and willingness to undertake fieldwork as required
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Full driving license
They value diversity, inclusion, and employee well-being. Continuous professional development and growth opportunities are fostered within our organization.
Rest assured, all applications will be treated with strict confidentiality.
Feel free to apply through Gaia’s website or reach out directly to [email protected]. We look forward to hearing from you!