Terrestrial Ecologist

SGS; Dubai; On-site; AED 120,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading testing and inspection company in Dubai is seeking a Terrestrial Ecologist to deliver ecological expertise for environmental surveys and studies. Responsibilities include conducting ecological surveys, species identification, and assessing ecological impacts of development projects. The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor's or Master's degree in a related field, 3–7 years of experience, and strong knowledge of UAE environmental regulations. This role also involves technical report preparation and collaboration with government entities.

Qualifications

• 3–7 years of relevant experience in terrestrial ecology (UAE or GCC experience preferred).
• Strong knowledge of desert ecology, flora and fauna identification, habitat classification, and ecological survey methodologies.
• Familiarity with UAE environmental regulations and international standards (IFC, CBD, IUCN, etc.).

Responsibilities

• Conduct terrestrial ecological surveys, including flora, fauna, habitat mapping, and ecological baseline assessments.
• Prepare high-quality technical reports and biodiversity assessments.
• Assess potential ecological impacts of development projects.

Skills

Ecological data collection

Species identification

Technical writing

Teamwork

Desert ecology knowledge

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Ecology, Environmental Science, Biology

Tools

GIS tools (ArcGIS/QGIS)

Job description

Company Description

We are SGS — the world’s leading testing, inspection and certification company. We are recognized as the global benchmark for sustainability, quality and integrity. Our 99,600 employees operate a network of 2,600 offices and laboratories, working together to enable a better, safer and more interconnected world.

Job Description

As a Terrestrial Ecologist, you will play a key role in delivering ecological expertise for environmental survey and studies. You will be responsible for leading on-site ecological surveys, species identification, habitat evaluations, and biodiversity monitoring. Key responsibilities include:

• Conduct terrestrial ecological surveys, including flora, fauna, habitat mapping, and ecological baseline assessments.
• Identify species of ecological importance, including protected or threatened species relevant to UAE and regional regulations.
• Prepare high-quality technical reports, ecological survey reports, biodiversity assessments, and mitigation plans.
• Assess potential ecological impacts of development projects and propose scientifically sound mitigation, restoration, and monitoring measures.
• Contribute to the design and implementation of Biodiversity Action Plans, habitat management plans, and long-term monitoring programs.
• Work closely with GIS specialists to develop ecological maps and spatial analyses.
• Liaise with government entities (e.g., EAD, MOCCAE, Dubai Municipality) and ensure compliance with UAE environmental legislation, international best practices, and project-specific requirements.
• Support fieldwork planning, logistics, and data collection following health and safety procedures.
• Provide technical input during stakeholder engagement, environmental permitting, and project review processes.
• Keep up to date with regional ecological trends, species status, and conservation priorities.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Ecology, Environmental Science, Biology, or a related field.
• 3–7 years of relevant experience in terrestrial ecology (UAE or GCC experience preferred).
• Strong knowledge of desert ecology, flora and fauna identification, habitat classification, and ecological survey methodologies.
• Proficiency in ecological data collection, analysis, and reporting.
• Familiarity with GIS tools and spatial analysis (ArcGIS/QGIS) is an advantage.
• Strong understanding of UAE environmental regulations and international standards (IFC, CBD, IUCN, etc.).
• Ability to work in challenging field conditions (remote desert locations, rugged terrains).
• Excellent communication, teamwork, and technical writing skills.

Additional Information

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