Work Environment
This occupation is typically found in the following Career Sector(s):
Videos & Interviews
Kate-Marie O'Connor, Senior Ecologist at ESB
Meet Kate-Marie O'Connor, Senior Ecologist at ESB. She plays a crucial role in protecting biodiversity while advancing renewable energy in Ireland. From safeguarding sensitive species to surveying habitats, Kate-Marie’s work is essential for a sustainable future.
Videos on the Web
- Ecologist- from: Youtube Search
- Ecologist- from: icould [UK] Video
Most commonly reported Work Activities
- Getting Information Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
- Analysing Data or Information Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
- Interacting With Computers Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
- Processing Information Compiling, coding, categorising, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
- Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information Estimating sises, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resources, or materials needed to perform a work activity.
- Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
- Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
- Thinking Creatively Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
- Documenting/Recording Information Entering, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
- Making Decisions and Solving Problems Analysing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
Working Life
Ecologists study how organisms relate to one another and to their environment. Human activity can damage the complex and delicate relationships between organisms and their habitats. Ecologists protect the environment, for example, from pollution, intensive farming, road building schemes and city sprawl into the countryside.
Some ecologists suggest what organisations can do to avoid harming the environment. A local council planning to build a new road might ask an ecologist to find the route least likely to cause environmental damage.
The ecologist would visit each proposed site and consider types of wildlife living in or near the area, noting any rare or endangered species. They would advise if trees would have to be cut down or marshland drained, and how these actions could affect plants and animals. The ecologist's findings would be presented to the council in a report.
Ecologists also work as advisers to landowners, industries and water companies. They may advise farmers on the conservation of hedgerows or which trees to plant.
Ecologists may have long-term responsibility for a conservation area. They protect against pollution and vandalism, and may provide information to visitors. Conservation bodies employ ecologists to manage nature reserves, ranging from ancient woodlands to gravel pits. Ecologists also identify new areas in need of protection.
In the laboratory, ecologists may analyse river pollution caused by industry and agriculture. They test water samples to find the type, concentration and source of the pollution.
Occasionally ecologists are called out to assess and advise on pollution incidents. Travelling to remote areas to gather information is also a part of the job. Fieldwork makes up a large part of an ecologist's job, so they have to work outdoors in any weather.
Most commonly reported Work Tasks
- Identify environmental impacts caused by products, systems, or projects.
- Identify or develop strategies or methods to minimise the environmental impact of industrial production processes.
- Analyse changes designed to improve the environmental performance of complex systems and avoid unintended negative consequences.
- Conduct environmental sustainability assessments, using material flow analysis (MFA) or substance flow analysis (SFA) techniques.
- Identify sustainable alternatives to industrial or waste-management practices.
- Review research literature to maintain knowledge on topics related to industrial ecology, such as physical science, technology, economy, and public policy.
- Redesign linear, or open-loop, systems into cyclical, or closed-loop, systems so that waste products become inputs for new processes, modeling natural ecosystems.
- Prepare technical and research reports, such as environmental impact reports, and communicate the results to individuals in industry, government, or the general public.
- Examine local, regional, or global use and flow of materials or energy in industrial production processes.
- Monitor the environmental impact of development activities, pollution, or land degradation.
Further Information
Qualities - Ecologist
As an ecologist, you will need an inquisitive mind, and a desire to protect the environment. You must be patient, accurate and methodical in doing experiments. You will need good communication skills, for example, to tell the public about wildlife and conservation areas, or to help an industry avoid damaging the environment. Physical fitness is very important especially when doing field work. Ability to work on your own and as part of a team is also very helpful.
Interests - Ecologist
This occupation is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests:
Naturalist
Not surprisingly, some aspect of the natural sciences will run through the Naturalist's interests - from ecological awareness to nutrition and health. People with an interest in horticulture, land usage and farming (including fish) are Naturalists.
Some Naturalists focus on animals rather than plants, and may enjoy working with, training, caring for, or simply herding them. Other Naturalists will prefer working with the end result of nature's produce - the food produced from plants and animals. Naturalists like solving problems with solutions that show some sensitivity to the environmental impact of what they do. They like to see practical results and prefer action to talking and discussing.
Investigative
The Investigative person will usually find a particular area of science to be of interest. They are inclined toward intellectual and analytical activities and enjoy observation and theory. They may prefer thought to action, and enjoy the challenge of solving problems with sophiscticated technology. These types prefer mentally stimulating environments and often pay close attention to developments in their chosen field.
Entry / Progression - Ecologist
An ecologist is typically required to have a degree and the most relevant course subjects include: ecology, environmental science, conservation biology, geography, applied life sciences and zoology.
To work as a consultant, you may also need a postgraduate degree or diploma in ecology and conservation.
Work experience as a research assistant or volunteering experiences on a conservation projects can also give you an advantage.
Sample Education and Training Pathways
A number of courses are available throughout the country that focus on learning and skills that may be useful for this career. The examples and links below may guide you in your research.
Further Education (FET)
Further Education & Training (FET) Courses are delivered by local ETBs, ranging in duration from several weeks up to 20 months. Courses are designed to meet the labour market needs and often include a large element of work experience.
Example search terms include: laboratory assistant.
Search for FET Courses
PLC Courses (FET)
PLC courses are full-time courses, one or two years duration, with awards at Level 5 and 6 on the NFQ. They are offered nationally in Schools and Colleges of Further Education.
Example search terms include: applied science, applied laboratory science, laboratory techniques, environmental science, pre-university, science with environmental studies.
Search for PLC Courses
Apprenticeships:
Apprenticeships are structured work-based training programs that combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction. They run from 2 – 4 years and are open to individuals of all ages, including school leavers, those seeking a career change, and existing employees who wish to upskill.
Examples: Lab Technician, Lab Analyst.
Search for Apprenticeships
Higher Education CAO (Undergraduate)
Higher Education courses at Levels 6 to 8 on the NFQ, delivered in Universities and Technological Universities & Institutes. Courses run from 2 – 5 years and places are allocated on a points-based system, processed by the Central Application Office.
Example search terms include: environmental science, biological and chemical sciences, science, chemistry, chemical sciences, biological, earth and environmental sciences, animal bioscience, applied biology, agri-environmental sciences, agricultural science, environmental science with ecology, environmental studies.
Search for CAO Courses
Higher Education (Postgraduate)
Postgraduate courses are courses at Levels 9 and 10 on the NFQ and usually last 1 – 2 years full time, or longer if a PhD or part time. Entrants typically require an undergraduate award (Level 8).
Example search terms include: analytical chemistry, environmental forensic, pharmaceutical, chemistry, environmental analytical chemistry, bioeconomy with business, environmental science, world heritage conservation.
Search for Postgraduate Courses
Our knowledge of the world around us is constantly growing and as an ecologist it is important to keep yourself informed about any developments in the field.
Ecologists have great career development opportunities. Some ecologists specialise in a specific area, some progress to senior/management roles, some develop their career as consultants and others may move into research and/or teaching in an academic setting.
Professional Development
Professional development (CPD) courses are specialised training, formal education, or advanced professional learning that improves skills, professional knowledge, competency, and overall effectiveness in the professional world.
Irish Ecological Association membership can be helpful for developing contacts and keeping knowledge up to date.
Science Foundation Ireland Smart Futures.
Check the Useful Contacts tab on this page to see if there are any professional bodies listed who may provide training related to this career.
Pay & Salary - Ecologist
Salary Range (thousands per year)* €28k - €70k
Salaries vary based on employer, location, experience, duties, and role.
Data Source(s):
Payscale/ Salary expert/ Greenjobs.ie/ WEI
Last Updated: February, 2024
Labour Market Updates - Ecologist
Note: The following information relates to occupations that include: Chemical scientists; Biological scientists; Biochemists; Physical scientists; Social and humanities scientists; Natural and social science professionals n.e.c.; Conservation professionals; Environment professionals; Research and development managers.
This information has been derived from the Solas National Skills Bulletin (2023).
The annual employment growth rate over the five-year period was above average for this occupation, with employment increasing by almost 2,000 persons between 2021 and 2022. Almost a third of employment was in industry with the remainder spread across many sectors. The number of new employment permits issued grew from 164 to 506 between 2021 and 2022, with two fifths of permits issued for roles in the manufacturing of chemicals/pharma sub-sector for scientists and analysts (e.g. quality control, chemists); other roles include medical scientists/technologists, microbiologists, process development and R&D scientists.
In June 2022, medical scientists were moved to the Critical Skills Employment Permit List due to issues with sourcing suitable candidates; in Summer 2023, the Government announced plans to expand the number of training places for medical scientists by 20 places. The Recruitment Agency Survey identified difficult-to-fill vacancy mentions for analytical and process scientists. Online job adverts for this occupation grew slightly in 2022, almost all related to posts for R&D managers.
This was the most frequently occurring occupation in online job adverts in 2022. With employment levels increasing and demand still evident, shortages are expected to persist for this occupation, particularly in the chemical/pharmaceutical manufacturing sector, for those with experience and/or in niche areas. The recent decline in the value of pharmaceutical exports in Ireland is unlikely to have a significant impact on the demand for skills as, in addition to being in strong demand in the pharma & biopharma processing industry, they are much sought after elsewhere in both the life sciences sector (e.g. medical devices) and other manufacturing (e.g. food & beverage); in addition, Government focus (and investment) on research and innovation will also sustain the already strong demand for these skills. Shortages of analytical, process and medical scientists are likely to continue.
Useful Contacts - Ecologist
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Irish Ecological Association
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Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
- PO Box 3000 Johnstown Castle Estate Wexford
- 053-916 0600
- [email protected]
- Click Here
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Irish Environmental Network
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Wind Energy Ireland
- Sycamore House Millennium Park Osberstown Naas Co Kildare W91 D627
- 045 899341
- [email protected]
- Click Here
