Graduate Ecologist

Role overview

Roughan & O'Donovan is looking for a graduate ecologist to join its Cork team. In this position, you will be part of a multidisciplinary group made up of ecologists, environmental scientists, planners and engineers, supporting the assessment and delivery of projects such as roads, greenways, buildings and bridges.

The role also includes contributing to biodiversity and ecology work across plans, infrastructure schemes and conservation-related projects, with a strong focus on fieldwork and technical reporting.

Current projects

• BusConnects Cork
• Cork Area Commuter Rail (CACR) Phase Two
• West Cork Greenway – Skibbereen Sections
• Fáilte Ireland Environmental Monitoring
• Waterford City Public Infrastructure Project
• Barnesmore Gap Greenway
• N25 Midleton to Youghal
• Irish National Heritage Park

What the role involves

You will carry out ecological field surveys, gather and organise survey data, and prepare technical reports. The work will involve regular outdoor site visits, sometimes in remote locations and in all weather conditions.

What you should bring

The position calls for a degree in ecology or a related biological or environmental science subject that includes an ecological component, at Level 8 on the National Framework of Qualifications or an equivalent standard. You should have strong field skills, a genuine interest in Irish wildlife, and a solid grasp of ecological survey methods.

Experience in habitat classification (Fossitt), badger, otter, bat, bird and invasive species surveys is important, along with a client-oriented mindset, strong interpersonal ability, and a collaborative approach. You should also be physically fit, motivated, comfortable using IT tools, and able to record information accurately and systematically.

Excellent written and spoken English is required, together with a full clean driving licence. Membership of the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM), or active progress toward membership, is expected. A postgraduate qualification in a relevant ecological field with practical experience is also valued.

You should be familiar with Irish and European environmental legislation, including the Habitats Directive, Birds Directive, EIA Directive, and the Birds and Natural Habitats Regulations. Experience with GIS software such as ArcGIS and QGIS is also relevant, as is volunteering experience in a related area.

About Roughan & O'Donovan

Roughan & O'Donovan is an independent civil, environmental and structural engineering consultancy with a team of more than 250 people representing 20 nationalities across offices in Dublin, Cork and the UK.

The company supports ongoing professional growth through structured development at every career stage. It is an Engineers Ireland CPD Accredited Employer and runs an Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) training scheme.

Benefits and workplace culture

The organisation provides wellness packages, flexible working arrangements and support around life events. It also has an active social committee, with activities such as surfing and cycling weekends, tag rugby, cycling challenges and a weekly five-a-side game.

Application and recruitment notes

Applicants should address the cover letter to Human Resources. Recruitment records will be kept for at least one year for compliance with the Employment Equality Acts 1998-2015.

The company does not accept unsolicited CVs from search firms. Any CV sent by a search firm without a valid written search agreement, including those sent directly to hiring managers, will be treated as the property of Roughan & O'Donovan, and no placement fee will be paid if a candidate is hired.