Senior Ornithologist

Permanent employee, Full- time - Galway / Hybrid

Optimize is partnering with a leading Planning and Environmental consultancy in Ireland. With a large team of professionals working across planning, environmental, ecology, and related disciplines, this consultancy has built a reputation for delivering complex and challenging projects nationwide. Their multi-disciplinary expertise and extensive track record ensure real value is added to every client project.

Are you an experienced Senior Ornithologist ready to take the lead on high-profile projects? This consultancy hosts Ireland’s largest dedicated Ornithology team, with approximately 40 specialists located across Ireland and Northern Ireland. You will play a pivotal role in projects spanning renewable energy, transport, water, and infrastructure sectors.

This is a dynamic position for a professional with a passion for ornithology and environmental impact assessment. You will be responsible for project management, survey design and coordination, and providing strategic advice to clients on large-scale, complex projects nationwide.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Project oversight and delivery: Manage ornithology projects from inception to completion, ensuring technical outputs meet the highest standards. Oversee budgets, invoicing, and client expectations while coordinating survey programmes and producing robust impact assessments.

• Strategic leadership: Mentor junior team members and sub-consultants, balancing workloads, resources, and deadlines. Provide clear communication to stakeholders and report directly to the Associate Director on project performance and profitability.

• Business development: Contribute to growth initiatives by preparing fee proposals, identifying new opportunities, and building strong client relationships to secure ongoing work.

The successful individual will have the following:

• Third-level qualification in ecology, environmental science, or a related discipline.

• Strong ornithological field skills and knowledge of avian ecology and conservation status of Irish bird species.

• Minimum of 5 years’ post-graduate experience in a similar role.

• Excellent report writing and communication skills.

• Solid understanding of the Irish planning system and environmental assessment frameworks.

• Proven ability to manage a busy, varied workload and lead a team effectively.

• Full driving licence.

This is an opportunity to work on some of the most complex and influential projects in Ireland, directly shaping the future of the landscape and its wildlife. A competitive salary and benefits package is offered, alongside ongoing professional development and career growth opportunities.

For additional information and a confidential discussion on this Senior Ornithologist position and similar opportunities contact: Eoin 056-7786631 / 087 0505417 or Eoin@optimizerecruitment.ie

Eoin is available for a call between 9am and 5.30pm daily (outside of work hours calls / meetings can be arranged upon request). 

Please submit your CV via the link provided, in confidence.

All applications will be dealt with in the strictest confidence and your CV will never be released without your prior approval.

Job Ref Number: OR-14442

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