Senior/Principal Ecologist

Ocean to Earth Recruitment is delighted to be representing a highly respected and award-winning planning and environmental consultancy, currently seeking an experienced Senior or Principal Ecologist to join their growing team in County Galway, with remote and fleixble working. 

This is an exciting opportunity to work across a diverse range of projects, with a strong emphasis on renewable energy. The role offers the perfect blend of autonomy and support, with excellent opportunities for professional development through mentoring, ongoing training, and involvement in high-impact work throughout Ireland and Northern Ireland.

🐾 What You’ll Be Doing:

You’ll play a key role in both fieldwork and report writing, contributing to a broad spectrum of ecological and planning projects. The successful candidate will thrive working independently while also contributing within collaborative teams.

Key Responsibilities:

• Leading and supporting ecological surveys, including:

  • Phase 1 / Fossitt habitat surveys and IVCs

  • Protected species scoping surveys

  • Bat surveys

• Producing high-quality reports and assessments:

  • Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (PEAs)

  • Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIA)

  • EIA chapters

  • Biodiversity Management Plans

  • Appropriate Assessments / Natura Impact Statements

• Liaising confidently with clients and statutory consultees

• Attending client and site meetings

• Undertaking Ecological Clerk of Works (ECoW) duties where required

✅ What We’re Looking For:

• Degree in Ecology or a related discipline

• Strong track record in professional ecological report writing

• In-depth knowledge of Irish ecological legislation and regulatory frameworks

• Practical experience with Phase 1 / Fossitt habitat surveys and IVCs

• Technically competent with excellent attention to detail

• Highly organised, reliable, and self-motivated

• Willingness to travel throughout ROI and NI, with some overnight stays

• Full driving licence and access to own vehicle

🌟 Bonus Skills & Experience (Desirable):

• CIEEM membership or eligibility

• Post-graduate experience in ecological survey work

• Experience with bats, birds, or other protected species

• Familiarity with GWDTE assessments

• ECoW experience

• GIS skills (ArcGIS or similar)

🎁 Benefits:

• Competitive salary (€35,000 – €50,000, depending on experience)

• Company pension scheme

• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)

• Monday to Friday schedule – no weekend work

• Supportive and inclusive team culture