Conservation Scientist (Wildlife Focus)

Placements24; Queenstown; Hybrid; NZD 52,000 - 78,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Stipend for fieldwork expenses

Conference attendance and professional

Accommodation and travel during field

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Conservation Scientist specialized in wildlife management to operate near Queenstown, Eastern Cape. The role involves designing and implementing conservation strategies, conducting research on endangered species, and monitoring wildlife populations through extensive fieldwork.

You will collaborate with local communities and rangers, prepare scientific outputs, and contribute to fundraising through grant writing.

Qualifications

• Masters or PhD in a relevant environmental science field.
• Demonstrated wildlife research and project management experience.
• Proficiency in data analysis, statistics, and GIS.
• Experience with wildlife survey techniques including camera traps.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute wildlife population research projects.
• Develop conservation action plans for threatened species.
• Conduct field surveys using camera traps, transects, GPS tracking.
• Analyze ecological data and inform conservation decisions with GIS.
• Manage camera trap datasets and other wildlife data.
• Collaborate with park rangers, researchers and stakeholders.
• Prepare scientific reports, publications and presentations.
• Develop and deliver educational outreach on conservation issues.
• Ensure compliance with wildlife protection laws and ethics.
• Assist with grant writing and proposal development.

Skills

Data analysis

GIS tools

Wildlife research

Fieldwork in remote areas

Communication

Grant writing

Education

MSc in Conservation Biology

PhD in Wildlife Ecology

Tools

ArcGIS

QGIS

R

Python

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dedicated non-profit organization focused on preserving South Africa's rich biodiversity, is seeking an experienced and passionate Conservation Scientist with a specialization in wildlife management. This critical role will be based in the vicinity of Queenstown, Eastern Cape , and will involve extensive fieldwork across diverse habitats. The successful candidate will be responsible for designing and implementing conservation strategies, conducting research on endangered species, monitoring wildlife populations, and engaging with local communities. Your expertise will be vital in protecting vulnerable wildlife and their ecosystems in the region.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and execute research projects focused on wildlife population dynamics, behavior, and habitat use.
• Develop and implement conservation action plans for threatened and endangered species.
• Conduct regular field surveys and monitoring of wildlife populations using various methods (e.g., camera traps, transects, GPS tracking).
• Analyze ecological data using statistical software and GIS tools to inform conservation decisions.
• Manage and analyze camera trap data and other wildlife monitoring datasets.
• Collaborate with park rangers, researchers, and other stakeholders on conservation initiatives.
• Prepare scientific reports, publications, and presentations on research findings.
• Develop and deliver educational outreach programs to raise awareness about conservation issues.
• Ensure compliance with wildlife protection laws and ethical research standards.
• Contribute to fundraising efforts by assisting with grant writing and proposal development.

Requirements

• A Master's degree or PhD in Conservation Biology, Wildlife Ecology, Zoology, or a related environmental science field.
• Demonstrated experience in wildlife research and conservation project management.
• Proficiency in data analysis, statistical modeling, and GIS software (e.g., ArcGIS, QGIS).
• Experience with wildlife survey techniques, including the use of tracking devices and camera traps.
• Strong understanding of ecological principles and conservation theory.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to publish research.
• Proven ability to work effectively in remote field conditions and collaborate with diverse teams.
• Valid driver's license and experience driving in rural or off-road conditions.
• Passion for wildlife conservation and a commitment to making a tangible impact.
• Experience working with local communities on conservation initiatives is a plus.

Benefits

This role offers a competitive salary, commensurate with qualifications and experience, with potential earnings of up to ZAR per annum . Our client provides a stipend for fieldwork expenses, including accommodation and travel during field assignments around Queenstown, Eastern Cape . Opportunities for professional development, attendance at relevant conferences, and collaboration with leading conservationists are abundant. This position is ideal for a dedicated scientist looking to make a significant contribution to wildlife preservation in a challenging yet rewarding environment.