Position: Principal Ecologist
Location: Dublin, Cork, Galway or Limerick (with hybrid/flexible arrangements available)
Type: Full-time, Permanent
About the Role:
Our client is expanding their ecology team across Ireland and has an opening for a Principal Ecologist. Whether you’re an emerging professional ready to take on more responsibility or a senior leader seeking to shape large-scale ecological strategy, this is your opportunity to make a measurable impact in biodiversity protection and sustainable development.
You’ll contribute to projects spanning infrastructure, renewable energy, land development, and conservation planning, working alongside multidisciplinary teams of planners, engineers, and environmental specialists.
Key responsibilities:
- Oversee complex, multi-site ecological projects.
- Provide strategic ecological input and business development leadership.
- Manage client relationships and direct project delivery.
- Drive innovation, mentoring, and continuous improvement within the ecology team.
What You’ll Bring:
- 6-10 years working experience in consultancy
- Degree (minimum BSc) in Ecology, Biology, Environmental Science, or related field (MSc desirable).
- Strong understanding of Irish and EU environmental legislation.
- Excellent report writing (including EIAs, NIS, AAs) and communication skills.
- Field survey expertise in all or one of the following is more than welcome: birds, bats, mammals, habitats, freshwater, biodiversity, peatlands.
- Membership (or eligibility) of CIEEM or a relevant professional body.
- Full clean Irish or EU driving licence.
Benefits:
- Competitive range: €60K - €70K
- Hybrid/flexible working options
- Locations available: Dublin, Cork, Galway or Limerick
- Private health insurance & employer pension
- Annual CPD budget and professional memberships paid
- Mentoring and structured career progression
- Comprehensive annual leave and wellbeing initiatives