Senior Ecologist – Freshwater/Aquatic Specialist responsible for managing and delivering ecological advice and assessments across complex development and infrastructure projects throughout Ireland, with specialist responsibility for freshwater and aquatic ecology. The role involves providing technical input into project design, consenting and implementation while identifying ecological constraints, assessing potential impacts and developing practical mitigation strategies to support sustainable project delivery.
Key responsibilities include undertaking and overseeing freshwater and aquatic habitat and species surveys, including Q-value, RHAT, species-specific, aquatic botany and eDNA surveys. Experience in electrofishing and Stage 1–4 freshwater pearl mussel surveys is desirable. The role also involves advising on hydrogeomorphological matters affecting aquatic systems and contributing to complex projects involving in-stream works, flood relief schemes, barrier removal projects and infrastructure upgrades.
The position requires the preparation and review of accurate technical reports and ecological assessments, analysis and interpretation of ecological survey data, and the use of GIS tools for ecological data capture and analysis. The successful candidate will work closely with internal and external stakeholders, provide specialist ecological advice, support consenting strategies and apply the mitigation hierarchy to help manage biodiversity and freshwater risks.
Candidates should have an Honours Degree in Ecology and proven experience in freshwater/aquatic ecology or ecological consultancy, together with strong practical freshwater survey experience, GIS competency and a strong understanding of Irish and European environmental legislation and consenting processes. Strong report writing and peer review skills are required. A relevant MSc, CIEEM membership or progression towards Chartership, experience with electrofishing or freshwater pearl mussel surveys, and additional ecological specialisms such as bats, ornithology, mammals or invasive species are desirable.
The role offers hybrid and agile working and can be based from Galway, Dublin, Cork, Kilkenny or Sligo, with regular travel across Ireland for fieldwork and project delivery. A full clean driving licence and access to your own vehicle are required.
