Development Associate

Location: Dún Laoghaire, Co. Dublin / HybridWe have an excellent opportunity for an experienced Development/Planning Associate to join our client, a fast-growing renewable energy company developing and operating large-scale biogas and biomethane projects across Ireland and the UK.As the business continues to expand its pipeline of renewable energy projects, this role will support projects from early-stage development through planning, environmental consenting and pre-construction. The successful candidate will work closely with senior members of the development team, external consultants, project designers, regulators and other stakeholders.

Main Responsibilities: Support the development and delivery of planning applications and environmental consents for large-scale biogas, biomethane and renewable energy projects. Coordinate with external consultants undertaking EIAR, EIA screening, Appropriate Assessment (AA), ecological and other specialist studies. Assist with the preparation, review and submission of planning applications and environmental documentation. Work with project design teams to identify planning, environmental and permitting issues and support the development of appropriate solutions. Assist with applications for environmental and operational consents, including Industrial Emissions / PPC licences and other relevant permits. Liaise with local authorities, regulatory and statutory bodies, consultants, landowners and other stakeholders. Support the preparation and delivery of public consultation activities and stakeholder engagement. Assist with the management and discharge of planning conditions and environmental compliance requirements during pre-construction. Support responses to planning queries, requests for further information, appeals and other regulatory matters. Assist with site selection, planning assessments and environmental due diligence for potential new development opportunities. Monitor developments in planning policy, environmental legislation and the renewable energy sector. Support project reporting, programme tracking, risk identification and coordination of development activities. Assist with market and sector research to identify potential development and acquisition opportunities. Contribute to the delivery of projects in line with agreed timescales, objectives and budgets.

Main Requirements: Degree (NFQ Level 8) in Planning, Environmental Science, Environmental Studies or a related discipline.5–7 years' relevant professional experience in planning, environmental consultancy, renewable energy, infrastructure, development or a related sector. Experience supporting or managing planning applications and environmental assessments for medium to large-scale projects. Good working knowledge of relevant planning, environmental and regulatory legislation. Experience working with external consultants and coordinating technical inputs across a multidisciplinary project. Experience engaging with local authorities, statutory bodies, regulators or other external stakeholders. Understanding of EIAR, EIA screening, Appropriate Assessment and/or environmental permitting processes. Strong project coordination and organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. A proactive approach with strong judgement, problem-solving and attention to detail. Genuine interest in renewable energy, biogas, biomethane and the transition to a more sustainable energy system. Ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary project team. Dublin-based preferred but not essential.