Overview

MKO is seeking to recruit Field Ornithologists, to work at locations across Ireland. The successful candidates will be responsible for undertaking ornithological surveys at sites of proposed and existing large scale infrastructure projects, primarily in the wind energy sector.

Surveys to be undertaken include vantage point surveys, adapted Brown and Shepherd surveys, breeding raptor surveys, wildfowl distribution surveys etc, as per Scottish Natural Heritage guidelines.

Previous experience of carrying out bird surveys, excellent bird ID, fieldwork skills and good IT and database management are essential prerequisites.

Candidates must also hold a full driver’s licence.

Previous experience of carrying out bird surveys for wind energy developments and an appreciation of the potential effects of such developments on birds are highly desirable. The successful candidates will ideally have some experience of carrying out bird surveys in a professional environment and have a third-level qualification in a relevant discipline. Prospective candidates will be expected to have excellent report writing skills, be well organised with meticulous attention to detail while also being able to independently manage a varied and full workload. The candidate should thrive in a busy work environment and on delivering to required project deadlines.

The successful candidate will take up a position within the company’s Ornithology team, reporting to the team’s director and working alongside other team members. The successful candidate would be expected to:

  • Work as part of a multi-disciplinary team of staff members to deliver project requirements
  • Have a high level of overall ornithological field skills in order to competently complete assigned bird surveys to set deadlines on behalf of clients
  • Provide regular updates to the project team on surveys underway and prepare fit for purpose interim and end-of-season survey reports to the highest standards within set deadlines
  • Compile all survey data as per standard reporting format provided in a timely manner and report on progress to designated team members

Due to the geographical spread of the company’s ongoing work, candidates may be able to work from their existing location without relocating to MKO’s main office, and only attend the company’s Galway office as required. However, some flexibility will be required due to the distribution of survey locations.

Candidates interested in the available position should apply by emailing an up-to-date Curriculum Vitae and cover letter/email to careers@mkoireland.ie

About MKO

MKO is Ireland’s largest planning and environmental consultancy.

With offices in Galway and Dublin and staff based nationwide, we deliver challenging and complex projects for our clients. Our multi-disciplinary service offerings and a broad range of nationwide experience add real value to our client’s projects.

Our team of over 150+ experienced professionals work across specialist teams including Planning, Environmental, Ecology, Ornithology, Land Solutions, Project Management, Project Communications, Health and Safety, amongst many others. MKO has grown significantly in recent years because of our strong track record and the successful projects we have delivered for our clients.

Our experience spans the full range of sectors, including renewable energy, commercial and industrial development, roads and transport infrastructure, ports and marine, energy infrastructure, retail, quarrying, education, housing, waste management, water, and other utilities.

Our values reflect how we undertake our work. The requirements of every project are individually assessed to ensure the work proposed is fit for purpose. Our reputation is very important to us, both in the eyes of our clients, whose expectations we always want to meet and in the view of our professional peers who review our work. Our people approach the most complex challenges with confidence and a can-do attitude. We recognise we must be adaptable and flexible in our work to meet ever-changing requirements. When we lead or form part of a project team, we take all the responsibilities of being part of a team.