At a Glance
- Tasks: Support farmers in environmental programmes and assess habitats for biodiversity.
- Company: Join ACRES, a leader in agri-environment initiatives across Ireland.
- Benefits: Enjoy a starting salary of €37,000, annual leave, and allowances for sustainability.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the environment while developing your skills in a supportive team.
- Qualifications: A Level 8 degree in relevant fields and 2 years of experience are required.
- Other info: Opportunities for career progression and professional development in advanced technologies.
The predicted salary is between 31000 - 36000 £ per year.
Find out if this opportunity is a good fit by reading all of the information that follows below.
Closing date for applications is August 17th 2025. This is a fixed-term contract running until December 31st 2027.
The Hen Harrier Programme Ltd have been contracted by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine to operate 3 of the ACRES Co operation Projects that are part of Irelands CAP Strategic Plan. Our company is delivering this initiative across ACRES Breifne, ACRES Leinster and ACRES Munster South Connacht.
Location
We are looking for a Project Officer for a new office in Lismore, Co. Waterford. This office will work with our participant farmers in the Knockmealdowns, Nagles, Galtee and Comeragh Mountains. Successful applicants will be required to complete one months training period in another regional office.
Role Overview
Project Officers are the primary farmer facing role within the Co-operation Project. They have a key role in the delivery of a locally relevant agri-environment programme that addresses the many challenges for our environment. The Project Officer is there to support farmers in the programme and ensure that the outputs from a farmer\’s participation in the scheme are optimised.
Key Responsibilities
- Assess habitats and participate in the quality control of habitat assessments submitted by farm advisors
- Produce farm plans
- Participate in the monitoring of key species/habitats and chemical physical parameters as required
- Assist in the assessment of risks to biodiversity, archaeological heritage, and water quality
- Assess fire, flooding, and nest predation risks at a local level
- Assist in the selection and design of landscape actions
- Participate in commonage assessments throughout the country
- Assist the Remote Sensing officer with drone surveys
- Develop engagement with local communities, NGOs and other local stakeholders
- Provide support to staff, DAFM, NPWS and other stakeholders as directed
- Screen proposed non-productive investments and landscape actions
- Deliver training to farmers, advisors, and other stakeholders
Professional Development
Following initial training, Project Officers will undergo a detailed Continuous Professional Development Programme, including opportunities in:
- Wildlife Monitoring
- Nest Protection
- Habitat remediation
- Rewetting
- Wildfire Resilience
- Control of Invasive Species
- Methods of Instruction
- Mountain Safety
- Small Boat Handling
You\’ll also gain experience with advanced Remote Sensing, Machine Learning, and Artificial Intelligence technologies.
Career Progression
Opportunities to progress to Senior Project Officer or Team Lead level may be available for suitable candidates after a period of service.
Requirements
- Level 8 degree in Agriculture, Botany, Ecology, Environmental Science, Hydrology, Zoology or similar
- Full clean driving licence
- Eligible to work in Ireland
- 2 years of relevant experience
Desirable Qualifications
- FAS Approval as a Farm Advisor
- Approval as a Pesticide Advisor
- Membership of Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM)
- Experience in Bat/Bird Monitoring, Hydrology or Environmental Impact Assessment
- GIS especially ArcGIS and QGIS
Compensation & Benefits
- Starting salary: €37,000 per year rising to €41,000 on successful completion of year 1.
- Mileage and other allowances
- €1000 personal equipment allowance on appointment
- €300 annual replenishment allowance
- €500 sustainability allowance for plug-in hybrid or electric vehicle users
- 24 days annual leave
- Pension scheme with matching employers contribution of up to 4%
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Project Officer – ACRES Co-operation Project (Lismore, Waterford) employer: ACRES
Contact Detail:
ACRES Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Project Officer – ACRES Co-operation Project (Lismore, Waterford)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the ACRES Co-operation Project and its objectives. Understanding the specific challenges faced by farmers in the regions you’ll be working in, such as the Knockmealdowns and Comeragh Mountains, will help you engage more effectively during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the agriculture and environmental sectors. Attend local events or join online forums related to agri-environmental initiatives. This can provide valuable insights and connections that may enhance your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your relevant experience in biodiversity, habitat assessment, or community engagement. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've contributed to similar projects or initiatives in the past.
✨Tip Number 4
Show enthusiasm for continuous professional development. Highlight any additional training or certifications you have that relate to wildlife monitoring, habitat remediation, or GIS technologies, as these are key components of the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Project Officer – ACRES Co-operation Project (Lismore, Waterford)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in agriculture, ecology, or environmental science. Emphasise any specific projects or roles that align with the responsibilities of a Project Officer.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for environmental conservation and your understanding of the ACRES Co-operation Project. Mention how your skills can contribute to supporting farmers and enhancing biodiversity.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Clearly list your qualifications, especially your Level 8 degree and any additional certifications like FAS Approval as a Farm Advisor or membership in CIEEM. This will demonstrate your suitability for the role.
Showcase Your Experience: Detail your two years of relevant experience in your application. Include specific examples of your work in habitat assessments, community engagement, or any other related activities that would be beneficial for the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at ACRES
✨Know Your Role
Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities of a Project Officer in the ACRES Co-operation Project. Understand the key tasks such as habitat assessments, farmer engagement, and monitoring biodiversity. This will help you demonstrate your knowledge and enthusiasm during the interview.
✨Showcase Relevant Experience
Prepare to discuss your previous experience related to agriculture, ecology, or environmental science. Highlight specific projects or roles where you've successfully contributed to similar initiatives, especially those involving community engagement or environmental monitoring.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the ACRES project and its impact on local communities and environments. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you understand how you can contribute effectively.
✨Demonstrate Continuous Learning
Express your commitment to professional development, especially in areas like wildlife monitoring and habitat remediation. Mention any relevant training or certifications you have, and be open about your eagerness to learn new skills that align with the role.