Job Title: Ecologist (Ornithology Specialist)

Location: Fieldwork across Ireland as required, & office visits at our office in Derry/Londonderry when required.

Flexibility: Flexibility to work from home and the office when not attending fieldwork. Fieldwork is an essential part of this role, requiring travel and occasional overnight stays. A full, clean driver's license is essential. Office time and communication of fieldwork findings is also an essential part of this role, and report writing, analysis, and skills are necessary skill components.

Company: Canavan Associates Ltd.

About Us: With over thirty years of experience, Canavan Associates Ltd., based in Derry/Londonderry, is a renowned firm specialising in town planning, architecture, environmental assessment, and renewable energy development. Our skilled team of Chartered Town Planners, Registered Architects, and Environmental Consultants provide comprehensive services across Ireland, excelling in wind and renewable energy projects, and Environmental Impact Assessments.

Job Summary:

Canavan Associates is seeking an experienced Ecologist, specialising in Ornithology, to join our expanding environmental team. Applicants should ideally have a minimum of 2 years of experience working in ecology consultancy and have excellent, demonstrable species ID skills in birds and other taxa.

The successful candidate will be responsible for conducting and managing ornithological and other ecological surveys and collaborating on various environmental projects. You will be required to provide ad hoc, periodic and seasonal feedback reports and summaries, as well as alert the development team of emerging ecology-related issues. You will also assist in data collation, preparation of maps report writing, project quoting, and securing new projects.

This role involves significant fieldwork, report writing, and interaction with clients and stakeholders to ensure the successful planning, execution of survey work, and delivery of successful project outcomes. The position offers a blend of office, home, and field-based work.

Our company already provides ecological and ornithological survey, reporting, and advice services. We have an established client base. You will report to staff members including, the company principal, the principal Ecologist and the Environmental Manager.

Key Responsibilities:

Undertake a range of breeding and wintering bird surveys, including species-specific and general surveys according to Best Practice Guidance and agreed methodology.

Conduct bird surveys, including site assessments, vantage point surveys, walkovers, and nesting bird surveys under instruction.

Provide input and assistance in completing avian impact assessments for development projects of varied types, particularly in the renewable energy sector.

Provide advice and detailed ornithological and ecological reports and documentation to support development, including contribution to Ecological Impact Assessment (EcIA), Natura Impact Assessments (NIS)/Habitat Regulation Assessment (HRA) and Environmental Impact Assessment Reports (EIARs).

Collate and store ecological data according to specified guidelines to ensure data safety and integrity.

Assist in ecological and other surveys and report writing as required, including those for terrestrial mammal, amphibians, bats, habitats etc.

Keep updated on current legislation and best practices. Stay informed on the latest ornithological and ecological research, methods, and mitigation strategies relevant to varied development types.

Engage with project stakeholders and staff members to establish site-specific scope of work for site assessment.

Attend meetings with clients, project teams, and other stakeholders to discuss project progress and findings as required.

Perform additional tasks as required, to meet the company's evolving needs.

Essential Criteria:

Hold a degree in ecology, environmental science, biology, or a related discipline.

A minimum of two years' full time practical experience in conducting Bird Surveys (seasonal, freelance, or previous volunteering experience in the Ecological sector will be considered).

Excellent fieldwork and data collection skills.

Practical experience in a variety of bird surveying, (such as vantage point survey, transects, raptor surveys, and collision risk assessment for wind energy development), habitat assessment, and ecological monitoring.

Strong knowledge of bird species, bird identification skills (both visually and by call), and bird-survey techniques.

Excellent communication, report writing, and presentation skills. Experience in preparing ecological reports.

Good organizational skills and ability to multitask.

Strong written and verbal communication skills for report writing and team engagement.

Excellent analytical skills and IT competency.

Project management skills, including planning, budgeting, and scheduling.

Willingness to upskill and attend training courses for professional development.

Full clean driver's license and access to a vehicle.

Desirable Criteria

Experience in other ecological surveys techniques

For example, terrestrial mammals, amphibians, bats, habitats, invasive species etc.

Proficiency in using relevant GIS software, and data management tools.

Experience in carrying out and completing Ecological Impact Assessment (EcIA), Natura Impact Assessments (NIS)/Habitat Regulation Assessment (HRA) and Environmental Impact Assessment Reports (EIARs).

Personal Attributes:

Attention to detail and strong observational skills.

Highly motivated individual with strong attention to detail.

Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.

Ability to work under pressure and within defined deadlines.

A commitment to environmental conservation and sustainability.

Willingness to work outdoors in various weather conditions and in remote locations.

Benefits:

Competitive salary (dependent on experience).

Family-friendly hybrid working policy.

30 days of annual leave (including bank holidays), increasing with tenure.

Support for professional development and personal development.

Company-funded membership of professional bodies such as CIEEM

Work Hours:

Permanent full-time role based at our Derry/Londonderry office Monday to Friday (35 hours per week) with regular onsite visits for surveying.

Flexibility to work from home when not attending fieldwork or client meetings.

Hours of work may include early morning and evening survey work periods.

How to Apply: Please submit your CV and a cover letter outlining your experience and qualifications to

Join Canavan Associates Ltd. and contribute to impactful ecological and ornithological projects that make a difference in conserving biodiversity and promoting sustainable development. We look forward to welcoming you to our team!

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Ecologist