Southern Scientific Services Ltd. is an Irish-owned environmental consultancy and accredited testing facility. We are passionate about applying science to deliver integrated, practical, and sustainable environmental solutions for clients across the ecological, agricultural, food, pharmaceutical, and environmental sectors.
As part of our continued growth, we are seeking a mid-level Ecologist to join our dynamic and multidisciplinary team. This is an excellent opportunity for an ecologist with 2+ years of post-qualification experience to work on a broad range of terrestrial ecology projects across Ireland, contributing to high-quality survey work, data analysis, reporting, and project delivery.
About the Role
You will be involved in a wide variety of ecology projects, with an emphasis on field surveys, data interpretation, and report preparation. While some work will focus on bat ecology (including night surveys), your role will extend to habitat surveys, mammal and bird monitoring, reptiles and amphibians and protected species assessments.
Fieldwork will take place across Ireland and the successful candidate must be available to travel and work outside normal office hours. The position offers the chance to broaden your ecological skillset and play a key role in delivering diverse environmental projects.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct a wide range of field surveys including:
- Bat activity surveys
- Breeding bird surveys
- Mammal surveys (e.g. otter, badger)
- Habitat mapping (using Fossitt and/or Phase I systems)
- Invasive species and amphibian/reptile surveys
- Water quality surveys
- Site surveys to inform Appropriate Assessments reports and Natura Impact Statements
- Prepare clear, high-quality ecological reports, including baseline reports, screening and Appropriate Assessment reports.
- Carry out data analysis, mapping and interpretation using tools such as QGIS or ArcGIS.
- Manage and maintain accurate field records and data logs.
- Assist senior staff with project delivery, client liaison, and coordination with statutory bodies and planning authorities.
- Contribute to project planning, timelines, and tracking of deliverables.
- Help maintain and calibrate ecological field equipment and manage field logistics.
- Participate in regular team meetings and contribute to continuous improvement and knowledge sharing within the team.
- Support the wider ecology/consultancy team as needed during peak survey seasons.
Person Specification
Essential:
- Bachelor’s degree (or higher) in Ecology, Environmental Science, Zoology, or related discipline.
- Minimum of 2 years’ post-graduate experience working in ecological consultancy or a similar field.
- Experience conducting and reporting on a variety of ecological surveys (e.g. habitat, mammal, bird, and bat).
- Familiarity with Irish and EU wildlife legislation and ecological survey guidelines.
- Proven ability to write detailed, accurate, and well-structured reports.
- Strong time management skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
- Comfortable working both independently and as part of a team.
- Physically fit and comfortable working outdoors in a range of weather conditions and during unsociable hours when necessary.
- Full clean EU driver’s license and access to a vehicle.
Desirable:
- Membership (or eligibility for membership) of CIEEM or another relevant professional body.
- Experience of ecological project coordination and/or supervising junior staff.
- Experience using QGIS, ArcGIS, or similar GIS tools.
- Familiarity with AA screening and Natura Impact Statement preparation.
- Experience working on planning and infrastructure projects.
- Competence in using survey equipment e.g. bat detectors and analysing bat calls using tools such as Kaleidoscope or BatSound.
What We Offer
Contract and Benefits
- Full training and support provided across all project types.
- Weekly team meetings and ongoing professional development support.
· A chance to work on meaningful Ecology and Environmental projects.
· Opportunities for professional growth and development.
· A supportive team environment with flexible working arrangements where possible.
· Competitive salary and benefits package.
Job Types: Full-time
Schedule:
· 8 hour shift
· Monday to Friday
· Nights as needed
· Weekend availability
Education:
· Bachelor's (required)
· Licence/Certification:
· Driver’s license (required)
If you're an ambitious ecologist looking to broaden your experience across a range of terrestrial projects and develop within a supportive consultancy team, we’d love to hear from you.
Job Type: Full-time
Work Location: In person
Application deadline: 05/08/2025
Reference ID: Ecologist - 07/25
