A leading, long-established ecological consultancy in Ireland is seeking an experienced Principal Ecologist to join its growing team. Renowned for delivering innovative, best-practice solutions, the organisation works across a wide range of sectors including transport, energy, utilities, residential, pharmaceutical, industrial, and technology—supporting projects that protect, enhance, and restore biodiversity. This is an excellent opportunity to take a senior role on nationally important, nature-positive projects while contributing to a collaborative and forward-thinking team environment. The organisation places strong emphasis on professional development, employee wellbeing, and career progression, offering a supportive culture, competitive benefits, and flexible hybrid working arrangements.
About You You are a motivated and solution-focused ecologist with a passion for biodiversity and environmental protection. You enjoy leading projects and working collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams, while also being confident working on your own initiative. You will bring:
Strong leadership capability with a proactive and organised approach
Excellent communication skills and confidence engaging with clients and stakeholders
A commitment to high-quality project delivery and continuous professional development
A collaborative mindset aligned with values such as excellence, growth, partnership, and positive culture
You will also have:
Proven experience designing and delivering ecological surveys, Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIA), and Appropriate Assessments (AA)
Strong knowledge of Irish and EU environmental legislation, planning policy, and guidance
A track record of managing complex projects and working within multidisciplinary teams
A full driving licence, access to a car, and flexibility to travel across Ireland (including occasional overnight stays)
Role Overview As a Principal Ecologist, you will play a key leadership role in managing and delivering complex ecological projects while supporting and mentoring team members. You will contribute to technical excellence, project performance, and client relationships.
Key Responsibilities
Lead the scoping, coordination, and delivery of large-scale and complex ecological projects
Manage and analyse ecological data using advanced survey techniques, GIS, and related tools
Oversee and produce high-quality technical reports (EcIA, AA, Biodiversity Management Plans, etc.)
Conduct technical reviews and sign off on project deliverables
Act as a key point of contact for clients, stakeholders, and project teams
Provide expert input at oral hearings and contribute to legal and judicial review processes (where required)
Manage project budgets, timelines, and resources effectively
Lead, mentor, and line manage team members, supporting their development and performance
Promote best practice, innovation, and continuous improvement within the ecology team
Contribute to business development activities including tendering and technical input
Qualifications & Experience
Degree in ecology, environmental science, or a related discipline (postgraduate qualification desirable)
Membership of a relevant professional body (e.g. CIEEM) desirable
Extensive experience in ecological consultancy, including fieldwork, reporting, and project management
Strong technical report writing and review experience
Experience delivering EcIA and AA for complex projects
Excellent knowledge of planning systems, environmental legislation, and policy
Experience in team leadership and mentoring
Strong commercial awareness and project delivery focus
What's on Offer
Opportunity to lead on high-impact, nationally significant projects
Clear career progression within a growing organisation
