Location
Manorhamilton, Co. Leitrim

Hours
Full Time - Fixed-term contract until December 31st 2027

Salary
Starting salary €37,000 per year rising to €41,000 on successful completion of year 1

About the Role
The Hen Harrier Programme Ltd has been contracted by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine to operate three ACRES Co-operation Projects as part of Ireland’s CAP Strategic Plan. This role is based within the ACRES Breifne team and focuses on delivering a locally relevant agri-environment programme that addresses environmental challenges. As a Project Officer, you will be the primary farmer-facing contact, supporting farmers to optimise their participation in the scheme and ensuring effective delivery of project outputs.

Key responsibilities include assessing habitats and quality control of habitat assessments, producing farm plans, monitoring key species and environmental parameters, assessing risks to biodiversity, archaeological heritage, and water quality, and assisting with landscape action design and commonage assessments. You will also support drone surveys, engage with local communities and stakeholders, provide support to staff and government agencies, screen proposed investments, and deliver training to farmers and advisors.

Professional development is a key part of this role, with training opportunities in wildlife monitoring, nest protection, habitat remediation, wildfire resilience, invasive species control, mountain safety, small boat handling, and advanced technologies such as remote sensing, machine learning, and artificial intelligence. Career progression to Senior Project Officer or Team Lead roles may be available for suitable candidates.

Benefits
Mileage and other allowances, €1000 personal equipment allowance on appointment, €300 annual replenishment allowance, €500 sustainability allowance for plug-in hybrid or electric vehicle users, 24 days annual leave, pension scheme with matching employer contributions up to 4%

Experience
Minimum 2 years relevant experience in agriculture, ecology, environmental science, or related fields

About you
Eligible to work in Ireland with a full clean driving licence. Strong communication and interpersonal skills to engage effectively with farmers, communities, and stakeholders. Motivated to support environmental initiatives and deliver high-quality project outcomes.

Qualifications
Level 8 degree in Agriculture, Botany, Ecology, Environmental Science, Hydrology, Zoology or similar discipline

Desirable Qualifications and Skills
- FAS Approval as a Farm Advisor
- Approval as a Pesticide Advisor
- Membership of Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM)
- Experience in bat/bird monitoring, hydrology, or environmental impact assessment
- GIS skills, especially ArcGIS and QGIS