Senior Ecologist

About the Role

Jacobs is dedicated to solving critical global challenges, transforming ideas into actionable solutions for thriving cities, resilient ecosystems, and innovative infrastructure. Our ecology teams in Ireland are expanding, and we are seeking a Senior Ecologist to join our dynamic offices in Dublin, Cork, or Belfast. Though flexible working arrangements are offered, your presence in the office will be key to mentoring and supporting our growing ecology team.

Your Contribution

As a valued team member, you will support the delivery of significant projects spanning infrastructure, utilities, and local authorities, such as the East Coast Rail Infrastructure Protection Programme, large-scale coastal defense, and underground cable initiatives. Your ecological expertise will significantly influence sustainable development, nature recovery efforts, and resilient infrastructure in Ireland's most vibrant regions.

Responsibilities

• Lead delivery of complex infrastructure projects including highways, rail, and energy sectors.
• Apply your skills in habitat and protected species surveys, act as Ecological Clerk of Works, manage Environmental and Appropriate Assessments, and promote Biodiversity Net Gain.
• Balance site and office work effectively to meet project demands.
• Collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams to integrate ecological considerations into project designs and decisions.
• Forge strong relationships with clients, environmental regulators, and stakeholders to support project pipelines.
• Represent Jacobs at professional networks, conferences, client meetings, and knowledge-sharing events.
• Mentor junior ecologists to build a culture of technical excellence and teamwork.

Candidate Requirements

• Degree in ecology or a related environmental field with substantial professional experience.
• Full membership of a recognized ecological professional body or commitment to achieve this.
• Experience managing ecological inputs on medium to large projects.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with meticulous attention to detail.
• High degree of personal responsibility and initiative.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience related to infrastructure, energy, water, or transportation projects.
• Expertise with protected species licensing and implementing biodiversity enhancements.
• Technical specialization in terrestrial ecology, especially habitats, bats, or aquatic ecology; diverse ecological experience also welcomed.
• Possession of a clean, full driver’s license.

What We Offer

• Global network of 600+ ecologists providing unmatched expertise and collaboration opportunities.
• Clear career progression through a structured Global Career Framework and Chartership Academy.
• Opportunities to enhance technical skills across various sectors while mentoring early-career colleagues.
• Chance to influence prominent infrastructure projects nationwide.
• Champion biodiversity and promote sustainable development solutions balancing economic and environmental needs.
• Recognition and development of your professional profile through client relationships and thought leadership.
• Comprehensive benefits in Ireland including pension contributions, life assurance, income protection, and professional development reimbursements.
• Community support initiatives including matched funding, paid volunteering, and charitable donations.
• Flexible working arrangements including hybrid, part-time, flexible hours, compressed schedules, and annualized hours.
• Extensive wellbeing resources such as digital GP services, mental health support, bereavement assistance, second medical opinions, confidential counselling, and financial planning support.
• Enhanced family-related benefits including parental leave pay and work-life balance focus.

Inclusion & Diversity

Jacobs values creating an inclusive work environment where varied perspectives and backgrounds enhance innovation and collaboration. We are committed to disability confidence, flexible working, and providing recruitment process accommodations for candidates as needed. Our culture emphasizes safety, integrity, belonging, and supporting positive mental health.