Principal Ecologist

About Us

Scott Cawley Ltd. is one of Ireland’s longest-established dedicated ecological consultancies, recognised as a leader in our field. We specialise in delivering innovative, best-practice solutions that protect and restore biodiversity, and we’re proud to work on a wide range of development and nature-positive projects across sectors including transport, pharmaceutical, industrial, energy, utilities, technology, and residential.

As an Origin Enterprises Company, we believe in developing and retaining our own talent and, as an Equal Opportunity Employer, we value the potential of every individual and are committed to helping you achieve yours. Our growing company offers excellent opportunities for career progression, with staff wellbeing, safety, and a healthy work–life balance at the heart of what we do. We support continuous professional development, offer a competitive benefits package, and operate a flexible hybrid working model that works for you and our business.

We will pay a €2,000 joining bonus for any direct applications.

About You

Are you solution-focused, a team player, and keen to take a lead in contributing to the biodiversity and nature-positive outcomes of nationally significant projects? We’re looking for professional ecologists with a friendly, flexible approach and the ambition to grow and develop alongside our evolving business. You’ll be self-motivated, organised, and conscientious, with the ability to work on your own initiative as well as collaboratively within a team. Confidence in engaging with colleagues and clients in a professional and approachable manner is essential. You’ll also need a full driving licence, access to a car, and the flexibility to travel and work across Ireland, including occasional overnight stays.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Ecological Field Surveying & Analysis

• Leading and directing the scoping, management and co-ordination of large scale and complex projects. Including travel to projects around the island of Ireland, sometimes in remote locations.
• Collecting, analysing and interpreting complex ecological data using our extensive and advanced ecological survey equipment, GIS and other tools.
• Leading technical report preparation (EcIA, AA, Biodiversity Plans), reviewing deliverables, addressing feedback, and providing expert ecological advice to clients and stakeholders.

Project Management

• Efficiently manage complex projects by resolving budget, resource, and time issues; more experienced staff handle larger-scale initiatives.
• Effective communication with the team, clients, relevant stakeholders and the public to represent the business and deliver projects aligned with the company’s standards and reputation.

Additional Duties

• Line management of direct reports including resourcing, performance, and HR needs; provide technical guidance and mentorship to ecology staff.
• Engage in CPD, lead training, and provide support for technical research, standards, and tendering tasks.

Qualifications and Training

• A degree in ecology, natural science or a related biological discipline. A postgraduate degree is advantageous but not essential.
• Membership of Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM) is desirable.

Skills and Experience

• A breadth and depth of experience in Ecological Field Surveying, data analysis and interpretation, and ecological impact assessment (including on large scale and complex projects).
• Comprehensive knowledge of relevant EU and Irish planning and environmental legislation and case law, and the planning process.
• Experience in leading and mentoring staff.
• Commercial awareness of the ecological consultancy market.