Senior Ecologist – Freshwater / Aquatic Specialist
Location: Galway, Dublin, Cork, Kilkenny, or Sligo
Shape the Future of Freshwater Ecology
We are seeking an experienced Senior Ecologist – Freshwater/Aquatic Specialist to join a collaborative Ecology Team delivering high-quality assessments and advice on complex development and infrastructure projects across Ireland. This is an excellent opportunity to apply specialist expertise, influence project outcomes, and help deliver sustainable solutions for clients and the environment.
Role Overview
This is a key role within the Ecology Team, responsible for managing, progressing, and delivering ecological assessments, with a strong focus on freshwater and aquatic environments. You will provide specialist input to a variety of projects while working closely with multidisciplinary teams.
The position requires strong technical capability in freshwater ecology, including habitat and species surveys (Q-value, RHAT, aquatic botany, eDNA). Experience in electrofishing and/or freshwater pearl mussel surveys is desirable. Knowledge of hydrogeomorphology and in-stream works (e.g. flood relief, barrier removal) is advantageous.
Alongside aquatic expertise, broader ecological skills such as habitat mapping, botanical surveys, and GIS analysis are important. A solid understanding of Irish and European environmental legislation, consenting processes, and mitigation requirements is essential.
Key Contributions
In this role, you will:
- Deliver high-quality freshwater and ecological surveys
- Analyse and interpret ecological data to inform assessments
- Prepare clear, robust technical reports
- Support project design, consenting strategies, and mitigation planning
- Identify biodiversity constraints early to improve project outcomes
- Provide expert advice to internal teams and external stakeholders
Your work will directly support sustainable project delivery while protecting aquatic ecosystems.
Core Capabilities
Technical Expertise
Strong understanding of freshwater ecology and experience supporting complex development projects.
Survey Delivery
Competence in freshwater habitat and species surveys, including Q-value, RHAT, aquatic botany, eDNA, and species-specific methods.
Reporting & Compliance
Accurate, high-quality reporting aligned with regulatory and quality standards.
GIS & Data Analysis
Experience using GIS tools (e.g. Fieldmaps) for data capture, analysis, and interpretation.
Project Delivery & Collaboration
Ability to lead ecological inputs, apply mitigation strategies, and collaborate effectively with teams and stakeholders.
Qualifications & Experience
Essential:
- Degree in Ecology or related field
- Proven experience in freshwater/aquatic ecology or consultancy
- Strong field survey experience
- Knowledge of environmental legislation and consenting
- Experience contributing to complex ecological assessments
- Strong report writing skills
- Full clean driving licence and access to a vehicle
Desirable:
- MSc in a relevant discipline
- Electrofishing and/or freshwater pearl mussel survey experience
- Knowledge of hydrogeomorphology
- Experience with in-stream projects
- Additional ecological specialisms (e.g. bats, mammals, birds, invasive species)
- CIEEM membership or working towards Chartership
Working Environment
This role offers flexible hybrid working and can be based in any listed office location, with travel required for fieldwork and project delivery across Ireland.