Consultant Ecologist

We are seeking a Consultant Ecologist to join our growing Nature Services Team in Belfast and work on some engaging projects within a supportive team of technical experts. You will work closely with our Belfast Team Leader and colleagues to deliver a diverse range of projects and work on nationally significant infrastructure projects, renewable energy projects and utility refurbishment projects.

You will collaborate with a range of interrelated disciplines including ornithology, freshwater and marine ecologists, Biodiversity Net Gain and Natural Capital specialists, arboriculturists, landscape architects, hydrologists, environmental scientists, engineers and geotechnical specialists. 

You will be involved in the following activities: 

• Planning and undertaking ecology surveys including Extended Phase 1 Habitat, and protected species surveys (red squirrel, pine marten, badger, otter, bat, smooth newt, etc). 
• Preparation of tenders and a range of ecological deliverables including; Preliminary Ecological Appraisals, EIAR chapters and Appropriate Assessments. 
• Following the mitigation hierarchy and being involved in design of mitigation and compensation measures including BNG and biodiversity enhancements. 
• Client liaison and project management. 
• Consultation and negotiation with regulators and stakeholders.
• Mentoring junior team members.
• Helping to nurture an enthusiastic, supportive, and productive working environment.
• Attending and contributing to regular weekly and monthly Ecology team meetings.
• Taking advantage of a generous training and career development budget to complete training (in-house and external).

What we are looking for you to demonstrate…

• An appropriate academic qualification and/or experience in a related discipline. 
• Membership of CIEEM, IEMA or similar.
• Experience working in a consultancy or similar environment and a deep understanding of UK and NI wildlife legislation and policy.
• Experience across a range of Irish habitats and species. 
• Experience of Ecological Impact Assessment and writing EIAR chapters.
• Experience of Appropriate Assessments.
• Strong communication skills and is solution-focussed and proactive. 

We are passionate about creating a diverse and inclusive team, so even if you’re not sure you match everything in our job description, we are still keen for you to make an application.