Principle Ecologist

Working Arrangement: Hybrid and flexible working options available

The Opportunity

An established environmental and engineering consultancy is seeking an experienced Principal Ecologist to join its growing ecology team.

This senior position offers the opportunity to lead complex ecological projects across the renewable energy, waste management, environmental and civil infrastructure sectors. You will work alongside a multidisciplinary team while supporting client relationships, project delivery and the continued growth of the ecology service.

The position would suit an accomplished ecological consultant with extensive knowledge of Irish environmental legislation and experience managing high-quality technical assessments.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage ecological consultancy contracts from initial planning through to successful delivery.
• Provide specialist ecological advice across a diverse portfolio of projects.
• Plan, undertake and supervise ecological surveys and fieldwork.
• Lead the preparation of Appropriate Assessments, Ecological Impact Assessments and biodiversity chapters for Environmental Impact Assessment Reports.
• Prepare and oversee the implementation of Construction Environmental Management Plans.
• Produce and review detailed technical reports and environmental documentation.
• Maintain strong quality-control standards across all project outputs.
• Act as an expert witness and participate in oral hearings where required.
• Build and maintain effective relationships with clients, stakeholders and design teams.
• Support, guide and mentor other members of the ecology team.
• Contribute to business development and the continued growth of the ecology function.

Skills and Experience

• A degree in ecology, environmental science or a related discipline.
• A minimum of ten years' relevant postgraduate experience, ideally within environmental consultancy.
• Membership of CIEEM, CIWEM or another relevant professional body.
• Strong knowledge of Irish wildlife, planning and conservation legislation.
• Experience preparing Appropriate Assessments, EcIAs, EIAR biodiversity chapters and CEMPs.
• Previous experience acting as an expert witness or participating in oral hearings.
• Excellent technical report-writing and quality-assurance capabilities.
• Strong project management, organisational and communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively within multidisciplinary project teams.

What Is Offered

• A clear and structured career-development pathway.
• Continuous professional development and dedicated learning days.
• Hybrid working and flexible start times.
• Shorter working hours on Fridays.
• Professional membership support.
• Annual leave and additional company days.
• Health, wellbeing and employee-assistance benefits.
• Regular social, volunteering and sustainability initiatives.
• The opportunity to contribute to high-profile environmental and infrastructure projects across Ireland.