Nature Conservation Ecologist

Role Objective 

To design and plan nature conservation programmes and projects to support the management of the Coillte estate designated primarily for nature. To ensure that relevant ecological information is up-to-date and fully reflected in biodiversity management plans and reporting. To collaborate closely with the Nature Conservation Delivery team and forest operations staff, ensuring that ecological objectives are clearly defined and fully incorporated into practical nature conservation management actions.

Role Responsibilties 

Oversee Coillte’s Nature Conservation Areas 

• Develop & maintain a comprehensive record of Coillte’s nature conservation areas; 

• Collaborate with the Inventory Team to support the development of a multi-objective inventory that meets the data requirements of nature conservation areas. 

• Provide detailed profiling and reporting of Coillte’s nature conservation areas, including their current status and conservation attributes. 

Design & Plan Nature Conservation on the Coillte Estate (BioForest) 

• Collaborate with the Strategic Planning Team to ensure alignment between nature conservation area initiatives and broader organisational goals and objectives. 

• Establish practical & implementable nature conservation goals consistent with desired outcomes; 

• Contribute to the design and implementation of a strategic pipeline of nature conservation programmes and projects aligned with organisational objectives. 

• Collaborate with relevant stakeholders within the forest planning process to drive the implementation of nature conservation programmes and projects. 

• Implement the monitoring of impacts & outcomes from nature conservation works. 

Promote Internally Coillte’s Nature Ambitions 

• Develop and maintain positive and productive relationships with colleagues across Coillte to build support for nature conservation initiatives and programmes. 

• Act as an internal advocate for nature conservation, promoting the importance of biodiversity, ecosystem restoration, and sustainable land management in achieving Coillte's strategic objectives. 

• Increase awareness and understanding of Coillte's Nature Strategy, conservation priorities, and ongoing initiatives through effective communication and engagement. 

• Facilitate knowledge-sharing and promote best practices in nature conservation across teams and business functions.

People, Culture 

• Promote a safe working environment for staff and visitors 

• Act as a role model for the Group’s values  

• Promote the values of nature conservation and biodiversity, and its relevance to a successful commercial forestry business

Behavioural Competencies 

• Results Orientation: Drives team results and tracks performance. 

• Accountability & Ownership: Owns outcomes and supports team accountability. 

• Attention to Detail & Accuracy: Ensures accuracy in team outputs and maintains high standards. 

• Time Management & Prioritisation: Manages multiple priorities effectively and supports team goals. 

• Collaboration: Builds strong working relationships across teams, encourages sharing and teamwork. 

• Problem Solving: Finds root causes, creates solutions, and improves processes. 

All employees must be a role model of the Coillte values.

Desired Technical/Professional Competencies

• Professional Qualification: Professional qualification in ecology or environmental science or related discipline to HETAC level 8 is essential. 

• Previous Experience: A minimum of 3 years experience, ideally including the survey and ecological assessment of forest habitats. 

• Report Writing: Demonstrates good report-writing skills, with the ability to compile, organise and present information clearly and accurately. 

• Regulatory Environment: Excellent working knowledge and experience of environmental planning and regulatory compliance standards.