Consultant Ecologist

Consultant Ecologist

Position Overview: We are seeking a skilled and versatile Consultant Ecologist to join our growing team at FitzGerald Ecology. As a Consultant Ecologist, your primary responsibility will be to complete habitat mapping, botanical and other specialist surveys and reporting, appropriate assessments, ecological monitoring, and additional ecology surveys or tasks for projects and clients across the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. This position involves both fieldwork and reporting elements. Ideally, candidates should be based in Leinster.

Positions for Graduate Ecologists are also available.

• Habitat Mapping, Botanical and Other Specialist Surveys
  • Plan and conduct habitat mapping surveys (including Annex I habitat surveys and Irish Vegetation Classification surveys) as well as botanical surveys to assess the diversity, abundance, and quality of plant species. These may include protected plant species surveys.
  • Perform other specialist surveys such as bird surveys, bat surveys, etc., as required by project needs.
  • Collect and analyse data on flora, fauna, and habitats, including rare and protected species. This will include extensive use of QGIS mapping software.
  • Prepare comprehensive reports summarising survey findings, methodology, and recommendations.
• Appropriate Assessments
  • Conduct appropriate assessments, in compliance with the EU Habitats Directive.
  • Evaluate potential impacts on designated sites, protected species, and habitats of conservation importance.
  • Provide expert advice on measures to avoid or mitigate adverse effects on protected areas and species.
  • Liaise with regulatory bodies and stakeholders to ensure adherence to environmental requirements.
• Ecological Monitoring
  • Design and implement ecological monitoring programs to assess the effectiveness of management changes/mitigation measures.
  • Collect and analyse data on key ecological indicators, including species abundance, population trends, and habitat quality.
  • Monitor and report on the success of restoration and habitat enhancement projects.
  • Provide recommendations for adaptive management and conservation strategies based on monitoring results.
• Additional Ecology Surveys or Tasks
  • Undertake other ecology surveys or tasks as required, such as protected species surveys, camera trap surveys, etc.
  • Analyse and interpret data collected during surveys using appropriate statistical methods and software, e.g. bat recording data analysis.
  • Prepare accurate and detailed reports documenting survey methods, findings, and recommendations. Reports may include summaries of fieldwork completed by others colleagues.
• Other Activities
  • Collaborate with colleagues on multidisciplinary projects, providing ecological expertise and insights.
  • Contribute to the development and improvement of internal processes, methodologies, and tools.

• A degree (or higher) in ecology, environmental science, biology, or a related field. Extensive practical/field experience without a nominal degree may also be considered sufficient.
• Proven experience in conducting habitat surveys, ecological monitoring, appropriate assessments, and additional ecology surveys or tasks.
• Sound knowledge of the flora, fauna, and ecosystems of Ireland.
• Familiarity with relevant legislation, regulations, and guidelines governing ecological assessments in Ireland.
• Strong analytical skills and proficiency in GIS mapping software, and ideally vegetation statistical analysis software.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including report writing and presentation abilities.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team environment.
• Experience in client management is desirable.
• A valid and clean driving license and willingness to travel to project sites across the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland.

Note: This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. The consultant ecologist may be required to perform other related duties as necessary to meet the ongoing needs of the organisation.

To Apply please email your CV to: afitzgerald(AT)fitzgeraldecology.ie

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