Senior Environmental Scientist

Permanent employee, Full-time · Dublin, Galway

About us
MKO is Ireland’s largest Planning and Environmental consultancy. 
 
Our team of 200+ experienced professionals work across the planning, environmental, ecology and related fields.
We deliver challenging and complex projects for our clients and have an unrivalled track record of success. We add real value to our client’s projects through our multi-disciplinary expertise and a broad range of nationwide experience.
 
Our success and growth rests entirely on the knowledge, skills, ambition and integrity of our people, and we value these qualities most highly. We are forward-thinking and work with a can-do attitude, which nurtures people, ideas and opportunities to help maximise potential.
 
Through our work, we aim to leave a legacy we can all be proud of.
Job Description
Senior Environmental Scientist 
Join MKO as a Senior Environmental Scientist, where you’ll lead the delivery of high-impact environmental projects across Ireland, taking ownership of complex projects and working on EIAR projects.
Our vision is to expand our reach and impact to help solve the defining environmental and societal challenges of our time. As part of this vision, one of our goals is to be the company that the best people in our fields aspire to work and grow with. If you’re passionate about driving strategic growth, managing complex EIARs, and leading our high-performing team in the renewable energy, waste-to-energy, manufacturing, and infrastructure sectors, we want to hear from you.
With offices in Galway and Dublin, the successful candidate will be based in either of our offices.
 
What You’ll Bring to MKO
You will be responsible for overseeing the preparation, coordination, and delivery of complex Environmental Impact Assessment Reports (EIARs) and related environmental studies for large-scale developments.
  • Oversee, guide, and manage junior team members and sub-consultants, fostering a culture of technical excellence and professional growth.
  • Report to our Environmental Director on project performance, strategic planning, and resourcing needs.
  • Take ownership of projects from inception to completion, managing the day-to-day operations, including fee agreements, invoicing, and maintaining project profitability.
  • Prioritise project tasks and resources effectively, balancing client expectations, staff capacity, and critical deadlines.
  • Ensure every project not only meets all environmental and regulatory standards but also adheres to timelines and client expectations.
  • Win new work by preparing and overseeing the preparation of high-quality fee proposals and tenders.
  • Manage and implement business development initiatives for the team, proactively identifying opportunities in the marketplace to ensure a steady workflow.
  • Ensure compliance with national and regional environmental legislation and guidelines, acting as an advocate for technical excellence.

 

Grow With Us
We offer a competitive salary and benefits package, recognising the significant contribution you will make. At MKO, your professional development is important to us, with ongoing opportunities for training and mentorship. MKO offers a culture that supports you.
 
What We’re Looking for in You
We’re seeking an experienced environmental scientist with a passion for delivering sustainable projects and leading high-performing teams.
 
Requirements:
  • A third-level qualification (degree or equivalent) in Environmental Science, Environmental Engineering, or a closely related field.
  • A minimum of 5 years of post-graduate experience in fulfilling similar functions or a similar senior/lead role.
  • Broad range of large-scale project experience across the wind energy, renewables, waste-to-energy, manufacturing, or infrastructure sectors at the EIAR/Planning/Construction stage.
  • In-depth understanding of Irish planning and environmental legislation.
  • Comprehensive knowledge of the technical disciplines within an EIAR (e.g., civil engineering, construction management, ecology, hydrology, noise, air, traffic, etc.) and their complex interrelationships.
 
Ideally, you will also possess:
  • A proven track record in successfully managing multi-disciplinary EIAR teams and projects from inception to completion.
  • Strong commercial awareness and demonstrated experience in successful business development and proposal writing.
  • Exceptional client-facing and stakeholder engagement skills.
  • Visionary leadership with a collaborative and results-driven management style.
 
We actively embrace diversity and inclusion as fundamental elements of our workplace culture. We welcome candidates from all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives, recognising that a diverse team fosters innovation, creativity, and a more dynamic work environment. We promote a workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their unique strengths.
 
Candidates interested in the available position should apply with an up-to-date curriculum vitae and cover letter.
We are looking forward to hearing from you!
Thank you for your interest in MKO. Please fill out the following short application. Should you have difficulties with the upload of your data, please send an email to careers@mkoireland.ie
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