Are you a Senior Ornithologist ready to lead challenging and complex projects? Join our dedicated Ornithology team, the largest of its kind in Ireland, with c.40 ornithologists located throughout Ireland and Northern Ireland, working on projects nationwide. You will be at the forefront of projects in the renewable energy, transport, water, and infrastructure sectors.
We are seeking an experienced professional to join our team who is committed to providing expert advice and solutions on large-scale and complex projects nationwide.
This is a multi-faceted role for an ambitious professional with a specific interest in ornithology. As a Senior Ornithologist at MKO, you’ll be involved in project management, survey design and coordination, and providing strategic client advice. A key focus of this exciting role is environmental impact assessment, offering you the opportunity to work on challenging and complex projects across the country.
Responsibilities: Expert project oversight and delivery - You will be responsible for the day-to-day management of ornithology projects, taking ownership from inception to completion. This includes ensuring all technical ornithological outputs are of the highest quality, managing project budgets, invoicing and consistently meeting client expectations. Your expertise will be key in scoping and coordinating survey programmes to collect robust baseline data and producing thorough impact assessments and any other documentation required to successfully deliver projects.
Strategic leadership - You will manage and mentor junior team members and sub-consultants, guiding them to successfully deliver project requirements. Your ability to manage a varied workload and balance client expectations, available resources, and project deadlines will be essential. You will also provide regular updates to project stakeholders, including wider project teams and clients, ensuring clear communication and collaboration. You will report on project performance and profitability directly to our Ornithology Team's Associate Director.
Driving business development - You will be a key player in our business development initiatives. Your responsibilities will include preparing and overseeing fee proposals, identifying new opportunities in the marketplace, and building and maintaining strong relationships with clients and stakeholders to secure a steady workflow.
What we’re looking for in you:- A third-level qualification in ecology, environmental science, or related fields that give the candidate the necessary skills to complete the role, ideally in a similar consultancy role.
- Excellent ornithological field skills and understanding of avian ecology and the conservation status of bird species present in Ireland.
- A minimum of 5 years of post-graduate experience in a similar role
- Excellent report writing skills and ability to communication complex ideas.
- A good understanding of the Irish planning system and environmental assessment legal framework and process
- Demonstrable ability to manage the busy and varied workload of a team of ornithologists.
- Full driving licence.
You will have the opportunity to work on some of the most challenging and complex projects in the country, directly influencing the future of the Irish landscape and its wildlife. We offer a competitive salary and benefits package, recognising the contribution you will make. At MKO, your professional development is important to us, with ongoing opportunities for growth and development, and a chance to make a tangible impact on the environment.
Candidates interested in the available position should apply with an up-to-date Curriculum Vitae and Cover Letter.
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.
